Varsity Jackets are one of those few clothing items that have been around for a long time. They are one of those items that you see in those black and white movies and we all still wear them in 2020.
Just like in the past when they were a famous attire among students and graduates, varsity jackets are carrying the same legacy but this time by staying true to its roots and elevating the fashion sense among the people with its distinctive designs.
In this article we will talk about some of the varsity jacket styling tips for Men.
The Evolution and History of Varsity Jackets
Very few people know that these all American timeless classics originated in the United States in 1865. They came into being when Ivy League football team players decided to stand out from other students. After all, they are considered as prestigious in representing the school in all sporting events. The trend started from Harvard University students, and soon took over multiple colleges and universities. Nevertheless, the universities sewed the letter H in the center of their uniform jackets.
This is one of the reasons why we also call varsity jackets as letterman jackets. But back at those times, they weren’t even jackets but jerseys. The letter H was strictly reserved for the best players in the team and if you don’t perform well enough, you would end up wearing a plain sweater.
A few years later other schools picked this trend up and started designing their own jackets with an appropriate letter on the chest. There were various concepts concerning where the letter should be placed but most people agree to it, look best on the left chest. It wasn’t until the 30s when they started introducing contrasting look like jackets.
Traditionally they had a woolen body and leather sleeves. Those two parts were always of contrasting colors. Additionally, they had matching waistband, cuffs, and collar. Today varsity jackets come in countless styles and fabrics. They slowly ‘left school premises’ and became more accessible for everyone to finally enter the high fashion market.
Wearing Varsity Jackets.
Varsity jackets have been long associated with urban fashion with a more sporty style. There was no question of putting one on and showing up at a formal event. In the last couple of years, a lot of designers have changed their way of seeing letterman jackets as strictly casual gear.
In fact, you can mix and match your varsity jacket with anything, providing you have a little sense of aesthetics. Make sure that you use our tips and become a fashion pro.
Varsity jackets styling tips for men:
The casual sporty look.
Perhaps one of the easiest and most obvious stylings would be wearing your varsity jacket to get the sporty vibe out of your outfit. After all, this is what it was meant for in the first place.
Go for a classic casual jacket with two contrasting colors of your choice. Add a pair of plain joggers (black or grey work best). Your T-shirt should also be plain if you’re wearing dark joggers and a bright-colored jacket.
In another case, you can let that inner child loose and top it up with a patterned T-shirt. Don’t forget about sneakers and perhaps a cap if you like wearing them.
Varsities can be semi-formal too.
Varsity jackets will go with anything, so building your casual outfit from scratch shouldn’t be a problem. Men usually choose a plain jacket if their T-shirt is bold, and the other way around.
Remember about the balance – one bright-colored item is fine providing the rest of your outfit is low-key. In this case, you’re going to wear a nice pair of jeans, a casual T-shirt and a dark varsity jacket. The best colors are navy blue and burgundy.
Sleek and sharp.
Here’s a grabber for all skeptics. You can achieve a nice smart look with a varsity jacket. Just follow a few simple rules. Firstly, your jacket should be a classic, and that means going back to the 30s – woolen body, leather sleeves, and a big letter on your left breast.
The good news is you’re not limited to plain colors. In fact, you can go for brighter ones that represent certain college taints. Complete the outfit with a pair of smart trousers such as chinos and a nice smart T-shirt or a shirt.
Ending note
Varsity jackets can be worn by anyone despite their age, sense of style or gender. Today in 2020 they come in numerous variations and it’s highly doubtful you can’t find a varsity that you won’t fall in love with.
