Varsity and bomber jackets are fashion staples that transcend the ebb and flow of trends. Both styles carry a distinct cultural aura, with bomber jackets embodying military-inspired resilience and varsity jackets capturing collegiate spirit through their patches.
They’re distinguished by their wool bodies and leather sleeves, ribbed collars and cuffs, and snap-button closures. Their iconic aesthetics are embraced by casual streetwear outfits and even favored by hip-hop artists like Run-D.M.C.
Origins
The varsity bomber jacket has its origins in the university letterman sweaters that were worn by Harvard’s baseball team in 1865. The sweaters were emblazoned with large old English letters and stripes on one sleeve to signify the number of sports won; a star designating the team captain was also often included. These jackets were not available to everyone, as only the top athletes were permitted to keep them.
Over time, this tradition made its way down from the Ivy League to high school and college campuses. As a result, the letterman jacket became synonymous with school spirit and athletic achievement. It soon became a fashion icon, as the jacket’s iconic look was embraced by pop culture – particularly when Michael Jackson wore an all-red varsity jacket in the music video for “Thriller.”
Today, the varsity bomber jacket is an integral part of collegiate and modern fashion. This versatile, comfortable, and stylish jacket combines the classic aviator aesthetic with modern styling and unique embellishments. The Greats’ varsity bomber jacket is made from soft brushed wool in bold color and features contrasting leather sleeves. Its relaxed fit and striped rib details add to its retro appeal, making it the perfect piece of fashion for any occasion.
Style
In the world of fashion, some wardrobe staples transcend trends and become timeless. The varsity jacket is one of these. Its sporty/street origins and collegiate aesthetic remain intact, with patches, ribbed cuffs, and stand-up collars adding to its iconic appeal. Moreover, it’s been refreshed by designers such as Kenzo, Givenchy, and Versace. This versatility ensures that the letterman jacket can be worn with a range of outfits from casual to sophisticated.
A varsity jacket is the perfect finishing touch to your everyday look. The collegiate style and classic colorways make it easy to pair with jeans or joggers. You can also dress it up with a button-down shirt and tailored trousers.
Bella Hadid has been spotted wearing hers with wide-leg carpenter denim and white sneakers, while TikToker Allison Bornstein combines hers with black pants and heels for a more refined appearance. The varsity jacket is ideal for cooler temperatures, too. Pair it with a tank top and baggy jeans for a casual yet stylish look. Finish your look with a mini JanSport backpack for ultimate streetwear flair.
Styling
The varsity jacket is a wardrobe staple that combines fashion, function, and nostalgia. This versatile garment has been embraced by celebrities such as Bella Hadid, Hailey Bieber, and Rihanna. You can also find it in the collections of Louis Vuitton and Tommy Hilfiger. The style is perfect for spring or summer, as it complements light denim jeans and sneakers. It’s also possible to mix and match the colors of the jacket.
The jacket can be worn with baggy jeans and white sneakers for a casual look that’s still put together. To add a touch of sophistication to this outfit, you can wear a pair of black leather loafers.
A varsity bomber jacket can also be worn with jeans and a fitted shirt for a more formal look. This ensemble is ideal for weekend hangouts and casual Fridays at the office. A varsity bomber jacket also goes well with tailored pants. The proportions are balanced, and the look is completed with chunky shoes or combat boots. In addition, you can dress up this outfit with a beret or hat.
Materials
A custom varsity jacket is a staple in your wardrobe, and it will last you for years to come. You can choose from a wide variety of materials and colors, including nylon, polyester satin, and cotton fleece. These fabrics are durable, comfortable to wear, and resistant to fading over time. You can also add logos and patches to your varsity jacket to personalize it.
If you want a classic look, choose woolen fabric for your letterman jacket. Wool is a natural material that can withstand cold weather, and it will keep you warm and cozy throughout the year. It is also a more affordable option than leather. Moreover, it is soft and breathable, making it the ideal choice for your varsity jacket.
Leather varsity jackets can be worn with any type of jeans, and you can add a t-shirt or button-down shirt to complete the look. You can also pair it with a baseball cap to achieve a more casual style. Moreover, you can use a pair of trainers to add a sporty touch to your outfit.
Price
Varsity jackets typically feature a wool body with leather sleeves for a contrasting look. This type of material ensures that you will stay warm throughout the winter while adding a unique, stylish look to your outfit.
Aside from the material, versatile jackets are also distinguishable by their embroidered letters and patches. These details add a personalized touch that reflects the wearer’s achievements and affiliations. This distinctive characteristic makes varsity jackets a timeless fashion statement that effortlessly blends nostalgic sportswear with modern style.
While many designers embrace the varsity bomber’s streetwear origins, others have crafted more minimal takes on the design. Brands like Amiri and Alexander McQueen offer pared-back versions of the jacket, allowing it to appeal to different style tribes.
Virgil Abloh, for example, often features the jacket in his collections. His version of the varsity bomber is highly customized, featuring Swarovski crystals and exotic materials like ostrich leather. Some of these designs can be extremely expensive, making them a good investment for those who are looking to make a stylish and high-end statement.
Conclusion
In conclusion, the varsity bomber jacket is a versatile and timeless garment that deserves a place in every wardrobe. From its rich history and iconic design elements to its versatility in styling and seasonal adaptability, there’s much to love about this classic piece. Whether you’re a fashion enthusiast or simply seeking a stylish outerwear option, the varsity bomber jacket offers a perfect blend of comfort, functionality, and effortless style.
