So he tried an idea. He used copper rivets — the type usually found in industrial settings — to strengthen the weak spots. The upgrade worked. The reinforced pants lasted months or even years. Davis realized he had something valuable but couldn’t afford a patent on his own. He reached out to his fabric supplier, Levi Strauss, and together they patented the riveted jean in 1873. The design was all about durability, not looks.Continue reading…
