Once reserved for a select inner (team) circle, the varsity jacket has long stepped beyond campus gates. What began as an elite marker of athletic achievement has evolved into a timeless wardrobe staple – still rooted in sports heritage, yet free from rigid rules.
Its quiet sense of prestige remains, now balanced by an ease that allows it to move effortlessly between casual and considered looks. Here’s some varsity jacket inspiration – and how to build looks around it, by yours truly.
Here, the varsity jacket leans into a more relaxed silhouette: Worn wide and layered over a light hoodie, the loose-fit denim reinforces the laid-back attitude. Classic 3-Eye Lug boat shoes by Timberland ground the look with a utilitarian edge, bridging the sweet spot between street looks and heritage. The jacket itself – crafted from brown corduroy and finished with appliqués – adds texture and depth, subtly reworking a classic through a rather unexpected material choice.
SHOP THE LOOK:
- Corduroy Varsity Jacket by Les Deux
- Armor Hoodie by Perplex
- ‘Zoe’ Sunglasses by Flatlist Eyewear
- Loose Barrel Jeans by Levi’s
- 3 Eye-Lug Boat Shoes by Timberland
This look stays true to one of the traditional varsity blueprints: cropped length, wool body, leather sleeves. Where it breaks convention is color – vivid purple, yellow, and white – recalling the bold palettes once tied to university teams:
While today’s varsity jackets often arrive toned down, this one embraces its expressive roots. A yellow shirt underneath echoes the jacket’s palette, while a Carhartt beret, dark understated denim, and clean adidas Japan sneakers pull the focus back, allowing the jacket to stand firmly as the highlight piece.
SHOP THE LOOK:
- Lettered Wool Melton Jacket by Needles
- Webster Beret Hat by Carhartt WIP
- Longsleeve Sport Shirt by Polo Ralph Lauren
- Longsleeve Waffle Tee by New Era
- Belt by Polo Ralph Lauren
- Aaron Pant by Carhartt WIP
- ‘Japan’ Sneakers by adidas
In its most versatile form, the varsity jacket proves to be an excellent team player: A toned-down blue version sets the stage here, intentionally stepping back to let the Bulls jersey take center court. To shift the look beyond pure sportswear, tailored wide-leg trousers and loafers introduce a refined contrast.
For an extra accent, roll up the hems and add red socks – that’s just enough color to tie the look together without overpowering it. And did you notice how the work shirt collar peeking out from under the jersey takes the latter from the court straight to the championship celebration?
SHOP THE LOOK:
