If one piece of clothing can claim the title of “chameleon,” fitting into athletic, semi-formal, and streetwear looks with ease, it’s the varsity jacket.
Varsity jackets (also called varsity letterman jackets) are the ultimate blend of sportswear and casual clothing. With its ribbed cuffs and mismatched body and sleeves, the classic varsity jacket may be one of the most instantly recognizable pieces of outerwear on the planet.
Thankfully, you don’t have to be on the football team to wear a varsity-style jacket these days—you just need to know what to wear it with. With that in mind, let’s talk about how to style a varsity jacket.
Varsity Jacket History: From the Field to Fashion
The varsity story starts back in the mid-1800s when players on the Harvard baseball team sewed an “H” onto their knit sports sweaters. Teams from other universities caught on, and soon every school had a version.
By the early 1920s or ‘30s, varsity letterman jackets had taken the form we know today: the wool coat with leather sleeves At this point, the jackets were a way to show off sporting achievements, with patches and pins dedicated to victories.
Eventually, the connection to athletics wore thin. In the ‘80s and ‘90s, pop culture took hold of the classic varsity jacket, and today, the letterman has become iconic on and off the field.
Choosing the Right Fit for Your Varsity Jacket
In general, varsity-style jackets are designed to be slightly oversized, but the cuffs should sit right at your wrists, and the waistline should just hit your waist. In terms of sizing, you should just be able to fit a sweater or hoodie comfortably underneath; anything more, and you’ve gone baggier than the traditional varsity look.
Of course, there’s nothing wrong with that—as long as you’re doing it intentionally. The super-oversized look can definitely work with the varsity jacket. Sporting a too-big collared varsity jacket with some baggy blue jeans and a vintage tee is one way to do it.
5 Styling Ideas for Varsity Jackets
With their sports-driven past, varsity jackets can feel stylistically restrictive at first. In reality, the world is your oyster.
We’re here to show you that letterman jackets are as adaptable as staples like the bomber jacket.
#1 The Athletic Approach
Of course, we have to start with the athletic look. Because varsity jackets are originally athletic wear, a sporty take is a no-brainer.
Wearing this red collared varsity jacket with a plain black tee and black sweats is a timeless choice, but it’s not the only way to lean into the athletic spirit of the letterman. Another option is to rock the black and white varsity jacket with a pair of complementary track pants.
#2 The Casual Combo
For something less sporty, it’s hard to beat the collared varsity jacket with black straight jeans, a white tee, and a leather belt. It’s the definition of classic, feeling like the 50s, 80s, and a modern look all at once. A varsity jacket is a versatile piece that complements various fits, especially when paired with lighter fabrics. The satin varsity jacket here is another great piece to add to your wardrobe.
Then there’s the colored block varsity jacket, a non-athletic take on the letterman that’s perfect to pair with some baggy trousers and a basic tee.
#3 The Dressed Up Look
A varsity jacket may not be the first thing you reach for when you think of formalwear, but in the right setting, a well-picked letterman can bring the right amount of casual to cocktail hour.
Button up a neutral collared varsity jacket and balance it out with some twill khaki pants, and you’re halfway there. A pair of nicer shoes and accessories, like a delicate rope chain or a silver quad chain, take this outfit firmly out of athletic territory.
#4 The Modern Streetwear Vibe
When you want to go beyond a dressed-down casual look, an oversized varsity jacket can take you there.
Toss on a leather varsity jacket, some baggy cargo pants, a vintage tee, and a trucker cap (bonus points for matching the hat and the jacket), and you’re ready to go out.
Again, accessories are your friend here. Adding a studded belt or a long chain will make your outfit seem less casual and more intentional.
#5 The Cold-Weather Layered Look
Thanks to their thicker construction, varsity jackets are worth reaching for when the mercury drops. Varsity jackets are a staple in winter streetwear, perfect for creating eye-catching layers.
A collared varsity jacket buttoned up with a black hoodie underneath will keep you warm while you wait for warm-ups. A pair of vintage camo cargo pants completes the outfit, as does this flare denim.
Build a Best-in-Class Look with a Varsity Jacket
Ultimately, whether you’re the quarterback or not, you can confidently don the varsity jacket. The letterman is for everyone now, and given how versatile it is, it’s worthy of every closet.
If you’re looking to add your first (or fifth) letterman jacket to your wardrobe, we can help. The mnml outerwear collection is full of varsity jackets that can bring a dash of that chameleon flair to any outfit. Explore the different types of men's jackets, including varsity jackets, to diversify your wardrobe.
