Fashion trends may come and go, but some styles remain timeless. One such classic is the varsity jacket, also known as the letterman jacket. From earning one in high school to wearing it well into adulthood, this iconic piece has remained a favorite for decades. Originally popularized by American high schools and colleges, the varsity jacket has now become a global fashion staple. Today, many people opt for custom varsity jackets to express their personal style and make a bold statement.
In this blog, we will talk about the history of this jacket, why people like it, and how you can make your own custom varsity jacket.
What is a Varsity Jacket?
A varsity jacket is an outerwear that was first worn by student athletes in American colleges. It typically has a wool body with leather sleeves. The jacket consists of a large letter on the chest, which represents the school or a sports team. Over the years, this simple jacket became an image of satisfaction and fashion.
Now, you don’t have to be a student or an athlete to wear a varsity jacket. People of all ages wear them. Some put them on to look cool, and others wear them because they are comfortable and easy to wear. The classic design, with bold shades and good materials, makes the varsity jacket a must-have in any wardrobe.
A Quick History of The Varsity Jacket
The first varsity jacket was made by Harvard University in the 1860s. They were more like sweaters with letters sewn on them. Later, in the 1930s and 1940s, the jacket turned into a modern-day varsity jacket, with a wool body, leather sleeves, and striped cuffs.
By the end of the 1980s and 1990s, the varsity jacket became a jacket that was not only for athletes, but also fascinated pop stars, rappers, and fashion enthusiasts. They started wearing them. Varsity jackets were seen in films, music videos, and even on fashion show runways.
Why Do People Love Varsity Jackets?
There are a lot of reasons why people love varsity Jackets. Some people got them from their high schools, and some bought them after they graduated. The comfort that varsity jackets give is on another level, also they go with any type of dressing. Here are a few reasons why people love varsity jackets:
- Timeless jacket: everyone knows these jackets came into existence in the 1800s, and since then, they have been used.
- Comfort: The materials used in the making of these jackets are mostly wool, making them comfortable and easy to wear.
- Personal Meaning: most of the people have varsity jackets because they wanna show the world their achievements from their school life.
- Customisation: people also love them because there are plenty of options while you’re customising one for yourself. You can add anything you like to the jacket. It can be your favourite colour or any remarkable date.
What is a Custom Varsity Jacket?
A custom varsity jacket means you can add anything you want or love to the jacket while making one for yourself. People add dates, name initials, patches, and much more. Here are a few options you can add while customising a varsity jacket:
- Choose your Colours: with this option, you can select any colour you want while customising one. It can also be two-tone.
- Select the Material: while customising one, you have a lot of material options as well. It can be wool, leather, or sometimes people also go for denim on the sleeves.
- Add Personal Touch: people go with different patches and stickers, by which they are representing something, it can be their school logo or sports team logo.
Where Can You Wear a Varsity Jacket?
You can wear a varsity jacket anywhere you want. The main reason why these jackets are so popular is that they go with anything, as long as you are comfortable. Here are a few options on where you can wear a varsity jacket:
- Schools: Most people get their first varsity jacket when they/re in high school.
- Sports Event: People also wear varsity jackets while attending a sports event. It can show their respect for a specific team they are supporting.
- Public Places: You can also wear it while you’re in a city, looking for different places to explore. They can be cafes and malls.
- Professional Places: You can also wear varsity jackets while you’re at your office. It’s gonna keep you warm, comfy and IN STYLE ALL THE TIME.
Varsity Jacket in Today’s Time
In 2025, varsity jackets got a hit more than ever. We all know they were invented decades ago. But now, most of the very famous fashion designers have started wearing them in their fashion lookbooks, and many celebrities have been seen wearing custom varsity jackets in many award shows. Thanks to the customising option, people love adding their details on their jackets and making them one-of-a-kind in the entire world.
The best thing about these jackets is, they are never that expensive. Anyone can afford one easily and add it to their wardrobe, and make it a daily wear.
Conclusion
As we all know, a Varsity jacket is not just a simple jacket because of its history and importance in many different areas, like schools and universities. Mostly, people get their first varsity jacket while they’re in high school, or in a good sports team. People also buy them to show the world their achievements.
A well-customised varsity jacket can never go out of style. With the selection of the right materials and perfect design, you can easily keep it with you in the long run and feel confident.
