The leather varsity jacket is a timeless outerwear classic that can elevate your everyday look. Its heritage stretches back to 1865 when it was first introduced at Harvard University as a special sweater for baseball players.
From traditional Ivy League brands to contemporary streetwear designers, you’ll find a wide selection of men’s letterman jackets in unique designs and colors.
Classic Varsity Jacket
A men’s leather varsity jacket is the ultimate classic piece. Also known as a letterman jacket, it’s the kind of roomy coat you might have earned in high school or college for playing a sport — it’s often patched, color-blocked and decorated with chenille letters and crests. The style has conquered runways this season, thanks to designers like Louis Vuitton and Celine. Thankfully, you don’t have to be an athlete to get in on the trend; you can find a vintage or thrift store version for a fraction of the price.
The men’s varsity jacket is a cult-favorite outerwear piece because of its nostalgic appeal and unique fusion of sportswear and fashion. Typically, the jacket is constructed of wool and leather with contrasting colors for the body, sleeves and ribbed cuffs and collar. The signature embroidered lettering and patches are an added charm.
To wear your varsity jacket, team it with jeans and sneakers for an everyday look. You can also add a casual dress shirt for a sophisticated outfit.
For a night out, pair a varsity jacket with a minidress or romper for a bold style statement. You could even choose to match the jacket’s colors to your date’s attire for a fun pop of contrast. For a more relaxed alternative, opt for a men’s hoodie that’s similar to the color of your jacket for a visually dynamic outfit.
Fashion-forward Varsity Jacket
A fashion-forward take on the classic letterman jacket is a statement piece that combines traditional elements with modern features. It’s a versatile option that can be worn casually or as part of a formal ensemble. It’s ideal for men who embrace fashion as a form of self-expression and style. The fashion-forward varsity jacket features edgy leather sleeves to create a bold and distinctive look. It also has a hood and two front pockets for extra warmth.
To keep the look cool and comfortable, pair a varsity jacket with a simple tee. Choose a light shade to ensure the jacket stands out and complements your T-shirt’s color scheme. Then, complete the outfit with jeans and sneakers to create a sporty and casual look.
Alternatively, you can add a touch of flair to your outfit by wearing a varsity jacket with a skirt. This is a great way to add a feminine touch to your look and tap into the sportswear trend that’s taking over the world. A pleated tennis-esque skirt is the perfect match for a varsity jacket, as it will give your look a sporty yet sophisticated feel.
A bold take on the fashion-forward varsity jacket is to wear it with a black crop top and high-waisted, black leather pants. This combination is perfect for a night out on the town and demonstrates that the varsity jacket isn’t just for casual days out.
Edgy Varsity Jacket
As prep gives way to streetwear, vintage-lovers and fashionistas alike have been drawn to classic styles that evoke the nostalgia of a school or college days. The varsity jacket is no exception. Traditionally worn by high school and college athletes as a sign of team spirit, these jackets showcase the wearer’s team colors or embroidered patches with their initials or the team logo on the front.
Over the years, these jackets have migrated from school hallways to runways and street style, where they’ve been embraced by celebrities and style icons and adopted as an icon of youth culture. To get the look, choose a jacket with a cropped silhouette and snap button-front closure for a nonchalant look. Look for details like leather contrast sleeves, a wool body, and chenille patches for a classic yet contemporary design.
To add a touch of urban appeal to your ensemble, pair a varsity jacket with black jeans and a white crew-neck tee. Complete your look with a flap crossbody bag and black lace-up shoes. Then, accessorize with a silver chain or hat to add some swagger to your look. For those looking for a more casual style, there are men’s varsity jackets with a cotton body and leather sleeves that offer a more laid-back vibe. These are great for everyday wear or a night out on the town.
Bomber Varsity Jacket
When it comes to men’s jackets, some styles transcend trends and become timeless wardrobe icons. One such staple is the varsity jacket. This unique style of jacket, also known as letterman jackets, is worn by high-school and college students to show their school pride. These jackets are crafted with wool bodies, leather sleeves, and ribbed cuffs and collars, and they often feature eye-catching patches that represent the school or team.
The best versatile jackets for men are crafted from premium materials and offer a versatile design that can be worn with a variety of outfits. You can wear your leather varsity jacket over a dress shirt and slacks for a formal look, or you can pair it with a T-shirt and jeans for a more casual feel. Men’s varsity jackets are also a great gift idea for loved ones, as they’re sure to appreciate the quality and classic design of this iconic jacket style.
Whether you’re shopping for a stylish vintage varsity jacket on Etsy or digging up an old one from your parents’ closet, it’s important to keep in mind that different styles of this iconic jacket carry distinct cultural auras. Bomber jackets, for example, have roots in military attire and evoke a sense of rugged resilience and endurance. On the other hand, varsity jackets are inspired by American collegiate culture and evoke a spirit of athleticism and academic achievement. These small differences contribute to the diverse ways that varsity jackets can be used by individuals to express their personal style.
Conclusion
Finding the best men’s leather varsity jacket requires careful consideration of where to shop and what to look for. Whether you prefer the convenience of online shopping, the personalized service of specialty boutiques, or the craftsmanship of custom leather artisans, there’s a perfect leather varsity jacket waiting to be discovered. By exploring a variety of retailers and considering factors such as quality, style, fit, and budget, you can find the ideal jacket that not only enhances your wardrobe but also reflects your unique personality and taste.
