Varsity Jackets: The Ultimate Guide - How to Style, What & Where to Buy

The varsity jacket is having its biggest moment since the 1950s, and frankly, it's about time. As someone who's styled countless clients through seasonal wardrobe transitions, I can tell you that the modern varsity jacket is no longer just for American high school students or vintage enthusiasts—it's become the ultimate statement piece that bridges sporty and chic like nothing else in your wardrobe.

What makes today's varsity jacket so compelling is its versatility. I've watched this piece evolve from a purely nostalgic novelty into a genuine style staple that works just as well over a silk slip dress as it does with your weekend denim. The key is understanding how to choose the right one and, crucially, how to style it with confidence.

Understanding the Modern Varsity Jacket

The beauty of the contemporary varsity jacket lies in its refined proportions and luxurious fabrications. Gone are the days when your only option was an oversized, polyester number from the fancy dress shop. Today's versions come in everything from butter-soft leather sleeves with wool bodies to minimalist designs in premium technical fabrics.

When I'm shopping for clients, I look for jackets with clean lines, quality construction, and thoughtful details. The best modern varsity jackets have slightly cropped silhouettes that hit just below the waist, structured shoulders that don't overwhelm, and colourways that feel current rather than costume-y.

How to Style Your Varsity Jacket

The Elevated Casual Look

This is where the varsity jacket truly shines. I love pairing a navy and cream varsity with high-waisted straight-leg jeans, a crisp white t-shirt, and pointed-toe ankle boots. The jacket adds just enough sporty edge without looking like you're trying too hard. Finish with gold jewellery and a structured handbag for polish.

The Feminine Contrast

One of my favourite styling tricks is to contrast the masculine energy of a varsity jacket with ultra-feminine pieces. Try yours over a midi slip dress with strappy sandals, or layer it over a pleated skirt with a fitted turtleneck. The juxtaposition is effortlessly chic and completely unexpected.

The Smart-Casual Office Alternative

For relaxed office environments, a well-tailored varsity can replace your traditional blazer. Wear it over tailored trousers with a silk blouse and pointed-toe flats. Choose a jacket in neutral tones—think charcoal, navy, or cream—and ensure the fit is impeccable.

The Weekend Uniform

For off-duty styling, nothing beats a varsity jacket with wide-leg trousers and a fitted ribbed tank. Add white trainers and a crossbody bag, and you've got a look that's comfortable enough for running errands but pulled-together enough for impromptu drinks.

Colour and Fabric Considerations

The traditional varsity colour palette of navy and white or burgundy and cream remains timeless, but I encourage clients to consider more contemporary options. Dusty pink with grey, forest green with cream, or even a tonal approach in varying shades of camel can feel fresh and modern.

Fabric-wise, look for wool-cashmere blends for the body with leather or suede sleeves. These combinations feel luxurious and wear beautifully over time. Avoid overly synthetic materials—they rarely age well and can look cheap under closer inspection.

Where to Buy: My Brand Recommendations

High Street Heroes (£50-150)

Arket - Their varsity jackets are beautifully cut with premium-feeling fabrics at accessible prices. Look for their wool-blend options in seasonal colours.
COS - Offers minimalist varsity styles that feel more Scandinavian than American, perfect for a sophisticated take on the trend.
Mango - Consistently delivers on-trend varsity jackets with fashion-forward details like contrast piping or unexpected colour combinations.
Weekday - Great for younger consumers wanting a more streetwear-influenced varsity aesthetic at budget-friendly prices.

Premium Picks (£150-400)

Reiss - Their varsity jackets strike the perfect balance between classic and contemporary, with excellent tailoring and luxurious fabric choices.
Whistles - Known for elevated basics, their varsity jackets often feature unexpected details like metallic accents or premium leather sleeves.
& Other Stories - Offers trend-led varsity styles that feel current and editorial, perfect for fashion-forward dressers.
Sandro - The French brand brings Parisian sophistication to the varsity jacket with refined cuts and premium materials.
Filippa K - Their minimalist approach to the varsity jacket results in pieces that feel timeless rather than trendy.

Designer Investment (£400+)

Saint Laurent - The gold standard for luxury varsity jackets, with impeccable construction and that coveted YSL edge.
Ganni - Danish brand known for playful takes on classic silhouettes, their varsity jackets often feature bold colours and unexpected details.
Golden Goose - Brings Italian luxury to American sportswear, with hand-finished details and premium leather work.
Etoile Isabel Marant - Offers Parisian cool-girl versions of the varsity jacket with relaxed fits and luxurious fabrics.
MM6 Maison Margiela - For those wanting something truly unique, their deconstructed takes on the varsity jacket are architectural and avant-garde.

Sizing and Fit Tips

The key to a great-looking varsity jacket is the fit. You want it to feel structured through the shoulders without being restrictive, and the length should hit just below your natural waist. The sleeves should end at your wrist bone, not bunch up around your forearms.

I always recommend trying varsity jackets with the layers you'll actually wear underneath. A jacket that fits perfectly over a t-shirt might be too snug when you want to layer it over a chunky knit.

Seasonal Styling

Spring calls for lighter-weight varsity jackets in fresh colourways—think cream with pale pink details or soft navy with white contrast. Pair with cropped trousers and loafers for an effortless weekend look.

For autumn and winter, look for varsity jackets in richer tones like burgundy, forest green, or deep navy. Layer over turtlenecks and wear with wool trousers and ankle boots. The key is ensuring your varsity jacket doesn't compete with heavier outerwear—it should serve as a sophisticated mid-layer.

Find Your Perfect Size with tellar.co.uk

Getting the right fit is crucial for varsity jackets, and that's where tellar.co.uk becomes invaluable. As the UK's leading sizing tool, Tellar matches your body exactly to over 1500 brands instantly—meaning you'll never have to second-guess a size guide again.

How Tellar Works:

Measure once using your bust, waist, hip measurements, or input your existing brand size
Use the tellar.co.uk - Essential reading for getting the perfect fit every time
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tellar.co.uk—and thoughtful styling, your varsity jacket will become one of those pieces that transforms your wardrobe from predictable to effortlessly cool. And in my experience, that's exactly the kind of investment every stylish woman should make. your blog post here...