What Is a Varsity Jacket? History, Styles, and How to Wear One

Varsity jackets can be seen everywhere nowadays. You may see them in universities. You can see them on runways. There is no way for streetwear brands to stop producing them. But what is a varsity jacket actually?

This jacket is also known as a letterman jacket. Sometimes, it is called a baseball or college jacket. Whatever the name, this jacket is one of the oldest styles of outerwear that is used nowadays. This guide will tell you about its whole history and varieties.

What Is a Varsity Jacket?

It is a casual wear outer garment made of wool, except for contrasting sleeves. The front part is closed with buttons. Cuffs, collar, and hem are ribbed knit. A majority of varsity jackets feature a large chenille letter on the chest.

The varsity jacket was initially designed to be worn by college athletes. However, today, it is not exclusive anymore. It falls right in the middle of sportswear and daily clothing, which is why it is very versatile.

What distinguishes it from a normal bomber jacket or a windbreaker? Three elements. Contrastive sleeves, button closure instead of zipper, and patches or letters that have a meaning. The construction has barely changed ever since their introduction.

The History of the Varsity Jacket

Harvard and the First Letterman Sweater (1865)

Its tradition began at Harvard University in 1865. They were wearing heavy gray flannel jerseys. Large “H” letters were embroidered on the jersey. This type of letter wasn’t awarded to all players.

It could only be kept by the athletes who participated in the most important matches. Others had to return their jersey at the end of the season. This was the peculiarity of the letter.

The football team of Harvard started to use this tradition ten years later. Soon, other universities joined in. Each university chose its own colors and letter.

From Sweater to Jacket (1930s)

However, by early 1900’s, cardigans with lettering came into use. Yet, a more durable item was required for the players. Cold outdoor sports demanded better protection. The modern varsity jacket first appeared around 1930s. Leather sleeves were put on a woolen jacket. Buttons replaced previous closures. The big letter moved to the left chest area. It was also around that time that the term “varsity” began to be used instead of the earlier term “letterman.” “Varsity” means “university.”

The Pop Culture Boom

The varsity jacket became synonymous with teenagers during the 1950s. The high school athletes would wear them everywhere. Offering your letterman jacket to your girlfriend was an iconic romantic move. It was all about pride, membership, and accomplishment.

But then, it all changed in 1983 when Michael Jackson wore a red and yellow varsity jacket in his “Thriller” music video. The varsity jacket was chosen by costume designer Deborah Nadoolman Landis on purpose. The angular shape created an assertive look on the slender form of Michael Jackson. The music video turned an iconic schoolwear garment into a fashion icon worldwide. The MJ Thriller Varsity Jacket is still in demand even today as part of our collection.

It got picked up later by the hip-hop stars and even luxury fashion houses. The jacket hasn’t stopped there since. As much as the psychology behind wearing a leather jacket, wearing a varsity jacket automatically boosts your confidence.

Types of Varsity Jackets

All varsity jackets do not necessarily have to be made out of the same material. The fabric will dictate warmth, weight, and overall aesthetic.

Wool and Leather Varsity Jacket

This is the classical version. It consists of a body made of melton wool with sleeves made of leather. It is warm, durable, and gets better with age as the leather acquires patina. Such a jacket would be good to wear during autumn and winter seasons. For the classic letterman jacket, here it is. Our Hotline Wool Varsity Jacket can serve as an example.

All Wool Varsity Jacket

Jackets made using wool for both the body and the sleeves are softer and lighter as compared to those made using wool and leather together. Such jackets suit the weather that is not too harsh. An example is Mens White Varsity Jacket​.

Satin Varsity Jacket

The satin finish makes the jacket shiny and sleek. It is light and smooth. It is used in streetwear and performance clothing. The satin varsity jackets are less warm than the woolen ones.

Cotton and Cotton Twill Varsity Jacket

The preferred choice of material during summer seasons is cotton. Cotton is breathable and light on the skin. A varsity jacket made out of cotton twill is suitable for use from spring to early fall. Need something lightweight to wear over a t-shirt? Opt for cotton.

Nylon and Polyester Varsity Jacket

The jackets are functional. They have properties that help protect from wind, light rains, and they dry easily. Nylon and polyester jackets require the least maintenance. They are easy to pack up and clean.

Fleece Varsity Jacket

Fleece uses synthetic fibers instead of wool for that comfortable fabric. It already feels well worn the moment you put it on. There’s no need for a breaking-in phase. The fleeces we offer for varsity jackets are ideal when you just want a casual weekend jacket. It offers more formality than a hoodie but is still lighter than a wool jacket. Browse our full varsity jacket collection.

How to Wear a Varsity Jacket

Style a varsity jacket is an easy job because it goes well with almost all the things in your wardrobe. The only thing you need to remember is how to sync the energy of the varsity jacket with your other outfit.

The Classic Casual Look

A basic crew neck t-shirt will serve as the base. Throw on some regular or slim fit jeans. Wear some clean white sneakers to complete the look.

Streetwear and Layered Outfits

Wear a hoodie under the jacket. Allow the hoodie hood to rest on top of the collar. Wear cargo pants and sneakers with chunky soles. You will create a layered, loose silhouette which is reminiscent of the sportiness of the jacket. Big sizes fit perfectly in this case. Need ideas for what to wear under a jacket? We have already talked about that already.

Smart Casual and Preppy Styling

The jacket should be worn over an oxford shirt. Alternatively, it can be paired with a crew neck sweater. Style the jacket with chinos and leather Chelsea boots. The strategy derives from the Ivy-League roots of the jacket. The style is perfect for casual office wear and dates. If you want to rock the preppy style in green, go for the Collegiate Green Varsity Jacket or the Custom AV Green Letterman Jacket.

Women’s Varsity Jacket Outfits

A woman can combine the varsity jacket with a form-fitting turtleneck and pleated midi skirt. Complete the look with ankle boots to combine the sporty and the feminine aspects. In case of street fashion, an oversized combination is suitable. Combine the varsity jacket with bike shorts and platform sneakers. Both combinations will be relevant in any season.

Varsity Jacket vs Bomber Jacket

These two are often mixed up. They both have the same length and ribbed hems. But they are entirely different kinds of jackets.

Varsity jackets have snap buttons and contrasted sleeves. They have school and sports history. Bomber jackets have zippers on the front part. And they are made out of only one fabric.

They are both durable layering garments. But they play different roles. Varsity is sporty and preppy. And bomber is utilitarian and minimalistic.

How to Pick the Right Varsity Jacket

What matters most? Climate, style, and fit.

For climate requiring warmth, you’ll have to choose wool and leather. In case of mild climate, it’s best to choose cotton or satin. And if you’re looking for maximum comfort, then your choice would be fleece.

The fit of a jacket is very important. It should be perfectly fitted over shoulders. The hem of your jacket should be at waist level. Sleeves should fit up to your wrist bone. Refer to our size guide to check your perfect dimensions before placing an order. Proper storage is key to increase the life of your jacket. We already explained how to store your jacket in our previous guide.

Navy, black, and burgundy will be your best body colors. And white or cream sleeves can go with anything.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: Is a varsity jacket the same as a letterman jacket?

A: Yes. They are both referring to the same clothing item. “Letterman” was derived from the chenille letter that the athletes received. “Varsity” is derived from the school team that initially wore this kind of clothing.

Q: Are varsity jackets still in style in 2026?

A: They have. These varsity jackets pop up in streetwear, couture, and casuals each season. They remain ever present. Just like the iconic leather jackets worn by Hollywood legends, the varsity jackets deserve a place in fashion history.

Q: Can you wear a varsity jacket to work?

A: This will depend on the place of work. It is very well received in creative agencies and technology firms. If you are working in a formal corporation, keep it out of office hours.

Q: What size varsity jacket should I get?

A: Opt for your normal jacket size. Varsity jackets include an extra layer anyway. If you’re going to wear a heavy hoodie, then opt for the next size up.