How to wear a Varsity Jacket with style?

The Varsity Jacket, also known as the "Letterman Jacket," is a true classic of American fashion. Often associated with the imagery of high school and college sports teams, this jacket has made a big leap in the world of fashion in recent years. With its clean lines, vibrant colors, and unique silhouette, this jacket can be a dynamic addition to any outfit. But how do you wear a Varsity Jacket the right way? Here are some tips to help you wear this sportswear classic with style.

History and Evolution of the Varsity Jacket

The Birth of the Teddy at Harvard in 1865

The history of the Teddy begins at Harvard in 1865, within the university's baseball team. At that time, the players decided to show their team affiliation by wearing an "H" on their flannel uniforms. Shortly thereafter, in the 1900s, the wool pullover or cardigan with a symbolic letter to represent their school was also adopted.

Over the years in the 1930s, this distinctive emblem was incorporated into baseball jackets, giving birth to the Varsity Jacket, a sporty and urban garment designed to protect players from the cold and wind during outdoor matches. Made from a blend of cotton and polyester, this jacket features iconic elements from the world of baseball, such as stripes, bands, and club logos.

This is how the Teddy, as we know it today, came to be. This jacket adorned with a crest or emblem representing the university or club quickly became an indispensable symbol in all American schools. Gradually, its association with sports faded, and it became a sign of reward for deserving students, proud to wear their colorful jacket with clear sleeves.

Integration of the Teddy in the Sixties

In the following decades, the Teddy conquered Hollywood and the world of music. In the 1960s, the American series "Grease" featured bad boys in leather jackets opposing good students proudly wearing Teddy jackets. At that time, it was often worn over an Oxford shirt and chinos.

Michael Jackson and Teddy Jackets

Then, in the 1980s, the King of Pop, MJ, popularized this style beyond American borders with his "Thriller" music video, where he wore a magnificent red and gold Teddy, emblazoned with the letter "M", hence its origin. With 14 minutes of video, which was exceptional at that time, the album sold to millions of consumers and brought a new image to this traditionally student jacket.

Revival in the 21st Century

In the 2000s, the letterman jacket took three distinct paths that contributed to maintaining its popularity. First, it retained its fame in rap and hip-hop circles, becoming an iconic element of the Golf Le Fleur brand collection, worn by artists like Tyler The Creator. Then, the revival of Ivy style brought the letterman jacket back into popularity in vintage shops, leading to a significant increase in its value, although rare pieces can still sometimes be found at affordable prices of around a hundred euros.

However, what probably marked this period the most was the rise of the varsity jacket in the collections of luxury brands. Renowned designers such as Heidi Slimane, Virgil Abloh, or Teddy Santis integrated this iconic jacket into their creations, giving it a new dimension and a more prestigious status. This recognition by major fashion houses strengthened the legitimacy and appeal of the varsity jacket, propelling it beyond its sports origins to become an essential fashion piece.

Features of the Teddy Jacket

The Teddy jacket features distinctive characteristics that make it a quality leather:

• V-neck with ribbed edges,
• Letters and symbols,
• Embroidered patches on the arms and shoulders,
• Ribbed edges on the sleeves,
• Ribbed edges at the waist,
• Snap-button front closure,
• 2 interior or 2 exterior zippered pockets,
• Cotton lining, polyester sleeves.

Depending on the models, you may find small differences in the finishing touches.

How to Wear the Varsity Jacket: Tips for Men and Women with Different Outfits and Models

The Varsity Jacket, also known as the teddy jacket, is a timeless classic of fashion that can be worn with style by both men and women. Whether you're looking for a casual, sporty, chic-casual, or even evening look, the Varsity Jacket is versatile and adapts to all occasions. Here are some tips for wearing this iconic jacket with different outfits and models for men and women:

Varsity Jacket Looks for Ladies

1. Sporty Chic Look: Opt for an oversized model for a casual and trendy style, go for an oversized one. You can wear it with flared jeans that elongate your silhouette and sneakers for a sporty and   chic look. This combination offers a perfect balance between comfort and elegance.
2. Twist with a Feminine Skirt: To add a feminine touch to your outfit, pair it with a pencil skirt or a skater mini-skirt. This combination will contrast the sportswear side of the jacket with a touch of sophistication.
3. Chic-Casual Outfit: Teddy and suit pants, for a preppy and elegant look, wear one with suit pants and a white shirt. This chic-casual outfit is perfect for semi-formal occasions

The Graduate store selection:

At Graduate Store, we offer a diverse selection of Varsity Jackets for all seasons of the year. Whether it's for cold winter days, vibrant autumn colors, hot summer days, or gentle spring breezes, our Varsity jackets will accompany you with style and elegance. Available in black, brown, blue, and green, our designs are inspired by the university and college atmosphere, adding a touch of nostalgia to your look. Whether it's for a night out in the city, a weekend with friends, or a shopping spree, they guarantee a return to the roots while preserving your beauty and comfort. Don't hesitate any longer and discover our collection to find the perfect complement to your wardrobe, season after season.