Varsity jacket is a beloved clothing item. In fact, those who have it, love it so much that they want to wear it every day – all seasons. But is it even possible? Are varsity jackets wearable all year round? Well, the answer is YES. You can wear your jacket throughout the year but you have to make some smart choices. This is an all-you-need-to-know guide on how you can flaunt your jacket, whether it’s warm or chilly out there.
Varsity Jacket is for All Seasons – Is it True?
Most people assume that varsity jackets are only fall-friendly. As the varsity jacket history entails, it used to be a sports outerwear. And not an ordinary one; a special one that represented team pride. And here’s the fun fact: the first ever letterman jackets were actually sweaters. They were the perfect attire for cold days.
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Did You Know? |
The first letterman jackets worn by the Harvard baseball team were actually thick-knitted gray flannel pullover sweaters with large H sewn on them. |
This means that this garment has always been made with seasonal considerations in mind. Its back story tells that the varsity jacket was an ideal choice for chilly days. Furthermore, this also reflects in the traditional varsity jacket style and design.
“A letterman jacket has a wool body and leather sleeves to protect its owner from extreme weather. Also, it has two colors. The primary one is for the body and secondary for sleeves.” – Wikipedia
But is that it? Can’t we wear it in warmer days? Yes, you can wear it in every season. After all, different versions of varsity jackets come in a variety of materials. This is what makes it versatile enough to wear year-round. In other words, YOU CAN HAVE A VARSITY JACKET FOR EVERY SEASON!!! It all depends on how customize it.
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Varsity Jacket Customization Guide for All Seasons |
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Material Selection |
Color Choices |
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Fall |
Wool Cotton Fleece Leather Accents |
Earth Tones Classic Neutrals |
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Winter |
Cowhide Leather Wool |
Black Gray Olive Green Cherry Red |
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Spring |
Polyester Satin Cotton Blends |
Pastel Colors Bright Tones Neutrals |
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Summer |
Cotton Blends Mesh Lining |
Pastel Colors Bright Tones Soft Neutrals |
Varsity Jackets for Fall
Fall fashion is all about cozy wear. Therefore, varsity jackets for fall are made with this vision in mind: coziness. Moreover, fall is the time when the chilly days begin. And jackets are the trend of this season.
“The vibe for the fall season is set to be full of neutral, cozy pieces with a subtle pop of color.” – Fashion Journalist, Vogue
Besides, varsity jackets take the cake among other contenders. Why so? Because they are perfectly made for this weather. Let’s talk about what materials, styling options and color trends make them even more of an ideal choice for fall.
Fall-Friendly Varsity Jacket Materials
Believe me or not, material is the backbone of any garment. It can make or break the whole functionality and fashion of the clothing. Therefore, choosing the right material for your clothes is very important. The same is the case with varsity jackets. Make sure your varsity jacket is made of the right materials for fall season. Here are some choices you can and should consider:
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Wool
For fall letterman jackets, wool is one the best choices. It is so because its durable, warm and water-resistant. Furthermore, its made of tightly woven fabric that retains heat yet is breathable. Also, your wool varsity jacket is perfect for unpredictable fall weathers. The material is heavily brushed for a neater and refined look. So, with warmth and a smooth appearance, wool varsity jackets are simply a great choice for fall.
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Cotton Fleece
For a cozy feel and excellent insulation, cotton fleece is another ideal material. Despite having insulation properties, this material is perfectly breathable. Plus, it’s very suitable for people with skin allergies. Less bulky, comfortable and hypoallergenic, cotton fleece is literally THE BEST for your fall varsity jacket. As aforementioned, fall is all about staying cozy and warm. Therefore, materials like cotton fleece are quite an ideal option. After all, their soft texture adds too the comfortablity of your attire.
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Leather Accents
Leather has always been the first choice for a traditional varsity jackets. But do you know about leather-accented varsity jackets? They are surely perfect for this moderately cold weather. After all, it adds a touch of sleekness with some warmth and comfort. With leather sleeves and patches, your jackets becomes a fall-perfect garment. Hence, leather accented varsity jackets are great choice for fall as they strike a perfect balance between fall and function.
Color Trends for Fall
After the materials, colors are also an important factor of fall varsity jackets. Besides, colors are what that set the whole vibe of a garment. Light colors give off more of summery feels while darker colors are for cold weather. Here are some of the color options you can choose for your varsity jacket:
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Earth Tones
These tones perfectly resonate with the spirit of fall. For this season, getting a varsity jacket in earthy colors is a win-win. Why so? Because these colors not only complement the season's palette but also evoke a sense of warmth. The colors you can choose from this palate include:
- Brown
- Olive
- Burgundy
- Mustard
Bold yet decent, these earthy tones surely amp up your fall varsity jackets. After all, they make them both stylish and seasonally appropriate.
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Classic Neutrals
If you want a timeless varsity look this season, going for the classic neutrals is the right decision. For an old-money yet modern look, these colors are a HIT! Furthermore, these colors are super versatile. They make your jacket pairable with just any garment ever. These include:
- Black
- Grey
- Navy Blue
You can say that neutral-colored varsity jackets can serve as foundational pieces in your fall wardrobe. It is because they effortlessly complement other fall essentials like jeans, chinos, and layered tops.
Varsity Jackets for Winter
Jackets and cold weather are a match made in heaven. After all, they complement each other so well. For winter clothing, you don’t just need fashion; you need weather resistance too. This is what’s in the mind of a Varsity Jacket Builder when preparing these jackets.
“Winter clothing is all about warmer clothing and darker colors.” – Fashion United
Let’s delve into the details of these jackets. After all, the devil is in the details.
Winter-Friendly Varsity Jacket Materials
As aforementioned, materials are a vital part of the varsity jacket design. This is the reason why we are studying them so thoroughly here. So, what materials are right for your winter varsity jacket? To know this, you’ll have to keep reading.
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Cowhide Leather
Exceptionally durable, this material is the number one choice for winter jackets. It is made for regular use and to withstand harsh weather conditions. Amazing right? What’s more amazing is that this material is easily available, low cost, and super versatile. In fact, it is the most widely used material for modern varsity jackets. Moreover, the weather-resistant qualities make cowhide leather an ideal choice for winter varsity jackets. Available in different color options, you can easily pick your ideal jacket.
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Wool
Not just for fall, you can wear your wool varsity jacket in winter too. In fact, it’s one of the best winter materials. Besides, these jackets are known for their insulation properties. This means that no matter how cold the weather is, the wool makes sure that you stay warm and comfortable. Moreover, a wool jacket is surely a worthwhile investment. After all, it’s durable and maintains its appearance for longer. Therefore, it’s not just a stylish choice, its a practical one too.
Color Trends for Winter
Well, both fall and winter are about cold days. So, the color choices for both seasons is somewhat similar. Like fall fashion, you can definitely go for bolds or neutrals for your custom letterman jacket. Here are some suggestions you can consider if you are getting a customized varsity jacket to flaunt this season. The color choices for winter varsity jackets includes earth tones, neutrals and the following:
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Deep and Rich Colors
These colors perfectly complement the winter vibes. Plus, choosing one of these colors will surely make it look more exquisite. After all, deep colors represent warmth. Additionally, these colors stand out against the season’s palate, making you stand out as a result. These include:
- Forest Green
- Royal Blue
- Burgundy
- Cherry Red
- Olive Green
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Bold Color Choices
Bold colors are an evergreen trend of the winter season. Although the word “bold” seem risky, these colors make your jacket versatile in reality. Besides, this color palate is named so only because the options it offers are a bit unconventional, including:
- Plum
- Maroon
- Cream
- Off-white
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Top Color Choices
As we’ve discussed already, that the color options for fall and winter resemble. So, here are some colors that we already told you are good for fall – and are great for winter too, such as:
- Black
- Grey
- Cherry Red
- Olive Green
Hey, you should know that olive green is a recent color trend that took winter fashion by storm. You can say that people had painted the town olive green this winters. So, definitely, its a great option to consider.
Varsity Jackets for Spring
We’re now moving to the warmer days. Spring is the time when the weather is not cold anymore. People prefer wearing more breezy clothes during this season. So, what about your varsity jacket? Can’t you wear it on your spring events? Well, it’s already said that you can wear varsity jackets in all seasons including spring. All you need to do is be wise and choose the right material for your jacket. After all, the right material will keep you comfortable.
Material Choices for Spring
The material options for the spring season are rather breathable. So, what actually should pick for your varsity jacket? Based on the weather and your comfort, here are some materials you can consider:
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Polyester Satin
This material is made of synthetic fibers and is popular because of its availability in such wide range of colors. People love it because it’s durable. Therefore, the jackets made from it last for years to come. The best thing about it is that this material is lightweight. This is why its a perfect choice for your spring varsity jacket. Also, polyester satin is soft and smooth – and very comfortable to wear.
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Cotton Blends
It's important that your spring outerwear – varsity jacket is breathable. This way, you’ll stay comfortable throughout the day. And there is nothing better than cotton blends if you want your jacket to be lightweight, breathable, and spring-friendly. Besides, cotton is also soft and gentle to the skin. Also, they provide just the right amount of warmth without causing overheating. Plus, they are perfect for layering. Hence, if made right, they are your spring wardrobe essential.
Spring Color Trends
This season is all about freshness and liveliness. And the trending colors for outerwear perfectly represent these qualities. Here are some of the spring-friendly options you have:
Pastel Colors
Undoubtedly, pastel colors make everything lively. After all, they are soft and subtle and perfectly reflect the fresh vibes of summer. You should know that pastel is a very broad spectrum and the options are endless. Anyhow, here are some popular choices:
- Light pink
- Baby blue
- Mint green
- Lilac
- Butter yellow
And so many more. Always do you research on trending pastel tones before you pick one for your jacket. It is so because your jacket will be your representative throughout the season.
Bright picks
Well, subtle tones reign over the whole spring season. But it doesn’t mean you don’t have other options. You can go bright by choosing vibrant, springy colors, including the following:
- Yellow
- Coral
- Red
- Green
- Brown
- Turquoise
You may wonder, what is brown doing here? Well, it’s not a popular choice. But it is a part of the spring color palate. So, you can consider it.
Neutral choices
If you are looking for something more classic and versatile, you can go with neutral hues. The best thing about such varsity jackets is that you can wear them with just any outfit. You can choose:
- Light gray
- Cream
- Beige
- White
These colors are great if you want to use your jacket for casual wear. Pair it up with any outfit and it will look good!
Varsity Jacket for Summer
The traditional varsity jacket – made of wool and leather – is not at all suitable for summertime. Does that mean you can’t wear it on warm days? Well, you can. All’s fair in love, war, and FASHION! Yes, that’s right! Fashion has no rules, only one: your personal style. You can wear whatever you want to, be it a letterman jacket. But hey, it’s summer and we don’t want to be fried by the sun, right? So, the key here is to play smart – choose varsity jackets made with breathable materials to wear during warmer times. Here is a material and color guide for you:
Summer-Friendly Varsity Jacket Materials
As aforementioned, traditional varsity jackets are warm. It is because they have a woolen body and leather sleeves. But for summer, this won’t work. You need something light, airy and breathable – totally opposite to the definition of conventional varsity jacket. Here are the material options you have:
- Cotton Blends
Like spring, these materials are ideal for summer jackets too. After all, they are breathable. Besides, you should know that they contain a blend of cotton with other fibers (mostly polyester). And this is what makes them so light, airy and appropriate for warm days. If you are customizing your jacket for summer season, this can be your top choice for material.
- Mesh Lining
With mesh panels and inside linings, you can make your varsity jackets summer-appropriate and breathable. After all, the mesh fabric allows increased airflow. Its screen-like weave allows air to pass through the fabric. As a result, you stay cool and comfortable. Despite being super light, this fabric is durable. This one is quite a practical choice because it ensures your jacket stays wearable and stylish in the warm weather.
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Fashion Fact! Chambray is a lightweight fabric that resembles denim in looks. It’s widely used for bomber jackets. And you can use it to make your summer-friendly varsity jacket too. |
Color Choices for Summer
If want to make your varsity jackets summer-appropriate, consider the colors that reflect the season's spirits. Your priority should be the ones that remind you of summer. Such colors will also go perfectly with the rest of your wardrobe. Besides, most color options for summer and spring are the same. After all, both are warm seasons. So, you can wear your spring jacket in summer too. Let’s discuss some choices you have:
- Pastel Colors
- Bright Tones
- Soft Neutrals
- Light Gray
- White
Here is a personal suggestion: butter yellow. Because it’s the color of spring/summer 2024. Now that you have a clear idea about the suitable materials and color choices for all seasons, you are ready to customize your own jacket. Well, the key here, is to keep the weather of your region in mind.
Can Your Varsity Jacket Work for All Seasons? Layering Tips
Yes, it can! That’s right. There is no need to have a separate jacket for every season. You can own one and wear it any day you want. The secret is – LAYERING! What you wear underneath your jacket will decide how whether you feel hot or cold or comfortable. For instance, you can go for heavy layers in winter but that won’t work during warm days. Here are some layering tips for every season:
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Fall
You can pair your varsity jacket with lightweight sweaters, sweatshirts or hoodies for that extra warmth you need this season. These options are not just great for your comfort. In fact, you can create some really cool looks with them.
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Winter
As the cold days approach, you need to keep yourself insulated and cozy. And for that, you can surely layer your jacket with some woolen sweaters or fleece hoodies. If the weather is too cold, you can even go for two or three layers. Oh, and don’t forget a beanie or a scarf. Furthermore, both of these don’t just go with your overall look. They will keep you warm too!
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Spring
For this season, you need to keep it light – the layering. You can wear t-shirts or cotton shirts under your jacket. After all, these will keep you cool throughout the day. Tees are versatile; they are perfect for every casual (and sometimes formal occasion. Besides, if the weather is breezy you can layer accordingly.
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Summers
Here is a pro tip: avoid wearing your varsity jacket during day time in summer. I repeat, DO NOT! Although it's not summery outerwear, you can still wear it for evening or nighttime events. Make sure your innerwear is made with super breathable materials like cotton or linen. With these, you’ll stay cool throughout the event.
Ending Thoughts!
Undoubtedly, varsity jackets are a delight to wear! Why? All because of their symbolism and the fact that they are an iconic piece of garment. But mainly because they are so versatile. With the right customizing, you can have a varsity jacket for just any season. Fall? Go for wool and cotton fleece. Winter? Cowhide leather would do the best. Spring? Keep your jacket lightweight? Summer? Flaunt it during your nighttime gatherings!
