The varsity jacket originated from uniforms worn by athletes on the field and started with the 1930s American Harvard University baseball team, who first wore them, adding patches of the school’s initials on the front chest. Since then, it has been called a baseball jumper, stadium jumper, and in recent years, joined the trend as a varsity jacket.
Made from thick and various materials, it is highly insulating, making it suitable for autumn and winter outerwear. Its unique design features logos, alphabet patches, and color combinations. Usually made from a mix of leather and wool, the outer surface is sturdy while the interior is warm, making it wearable in various seasons.
Varsity jacket can be styled with a range of fashions, from sporty to casual and street. Recently, as sporty and active styles become trendy, Korean celebrities often wear them. Try becoming a fashion leader with a varsity jacket instead of boring winter coats or padding.
Brief Fashion History of Varsity Jacket
The jacket’s mainstream status was cemented in 1983 when Michael Jackson sported one in his “Thriller” video, turning it into a coveted fashion item.
The iconic letterman jacket, deeply intertwined with American sports culture, is a timeless symbol. Originally named the varsity jacket, this woolen coat with leather sleeves and chest letter is steeped in history.
It all began in 1865 with the Harvard University baseball team, who started with a simple wool sweater. They sewed a bold “H” on it, laying the foundation for its legacy. Initially, owning one was prestigious, but only the best could keep it.
By 1891, Harvard athletes embraced black jerseys with the iconic “H,” sparking the tradition of “Letterman” pullovers and cardigans. Harvard football joined in, creating a trend of uniform personalization with symbols representing achievements.
In 1930, leather sleeves and buttons were added for warmth, shifting the iconic letter to the side. Wearing it became a privilege earned through athletic success, proudly displayed on jackets.
The 1980s witnessed a resurgence, as professional sports teams adopted the varsity jacket. Satin versions made it more accessible, with teams like the Los Angeles Raiders, New York Knicks, and Boston Celtics creating their own.
Varsity Jacket and Korean Wave
Korean celebrities have wholeheartedly embraced the varsity jacket trend, incorporating it into their versatile fashion repertoire with a distinctive flair. Known for their trend-setting and innovative style, these stars often blend traditional elements of the jacket with contemporary twists, creating a unique blend of old-school charm and modern sophistication. Whether spotted in airport fashion, attending events, or in their music videos, Korean idols and actors frequently sport varsity jackets in a variety of colors and designs, often customized to their personal style. This adoption of the varsity jacket not only reflects their fashion-forward approach but also signifies their connection to global fashion trends.
The way these celebrities style these jackets – often pairing them with everything from casual streetwear to more formal attire – showcases their ability to make this traditionally sporty garment a statement piece in both casual and chic ensembles. Their influence is so significant that the styles worn by these celebrities often become highly sought after by fans, further cementing the varsity jacket’s status as a fashion staple in both South Korea and worldwide.
MONSTA X Shownu
Shownu’s varsity jacket a mix of tradition and charisma. With its white sleeves and ‘W’ emblem, it complements his simple attire. His presence feels engaging, as if the jacket is part of his narrative.
This look beckons us to explore how such a classic can redefine our own style. What story would your jacket tell?
BLACKPINK Jisoo
Jisoo wears an Alo Yoga varsity jacket, its white sleeves contrasting the black body. The design mixes sporty charm with elegance, ideal for those who value both comfort and style.
Can you picture yourself there, chatting and enjoying the calm, the jacket enhancing Jisoo’s chic, laid-back look? How would you wear it on a sunny day?
Stray Kids Felix
Felix’s varsity jacket, decorated with unique patches, makes a bold statement. Teamed with black jeans, the jacket shines as the highlight of his outfit, suggesting readiness for city life’s casual rhythm.
What’s your take on this eye-catching piece?
Go Youn Jung
Go Youn Jung exudes a cool confidence in a Penshoppe varsity jacket. The green and white piece sports a ‘P’, blending comfort with polished style. She pairs it with cream pants and a white top, the simple setting showcasing her outfit’s sleekness. Her pose, inviting and serene, challenges us to add this timeless item to our collection.
How would you personalize this varsity jacket?
SEVENTEEN DK
Meanwhile, DK’s varsity jacket adding a refined edge. It features a ‘P’ and ‘New York Boxing Club’ on the back, each detail weaving a story. His cap completes the look, merging athletic tradition with an air of intrigue. The jacket and cap together invite us to find our voice in streetwear’s silent story.
How would you style these pieces?
NCT Doyoung
Doyoung stands amid a whimsical setting, his varsity jacket lending an academic chic. Its grey hues match his sweater and trousers, crafting a sophisticated yet accessible look. His glasses add a playful note, suggesting stories waiting to be told among the books.
How would you capture this smart, casual essence?
Mimi
Mimi poses playfully, with her varsity jacket adding a youthful zest. Its green and white design contrasts with her crop top and high-waisted pants, offering cozy style. Her braids give a fun twist, in tune with the jacket’s vibe.
She seems to invite us to blend nostalgia with fashion. What would your varsity jacket reminisce?
RIIZE Anton
Anton strikes a casual pose, his varsity jacket bringing a dash of youthful energy to his ensemble. The jacket, in a classic green and white, offers a stark yet harmonious contrast to his simple grey beanie and relaxed-fit jeans, creating a snug and trendy look. His straight hair peeks out, complementing the sporty aesthetic of the jacket. There’s an inviting charm to his demeanor, a beckoning to merge the comfort of old-school spirit with contemporary flair. What stories would Anton’s varsity jacket whisper from its sleeves?
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