What Are Varsity Jackets and Why Are They Back in Style?
Varsity jackets (also known as letterman jackets) are making a huge comeback. What started as a symbol of athletic achievement in American universities has become a cultural icon, a sought-after vintage piece, and a staple in modern streetwear. But what exactly are varsity jackets? Where do they come from? And why does everyone want one in 2024?
In this article, we’ll break it all down history, meaning, materials, their place in American culture, and why vintage varsity jackets are in such high demand today.
What is a varsity jacket?
A varsity jacket (also known as a letterman jacket or letter jacket) is a classic American school uniform item, traditionally awarded to high-performing student-athletes in high school or college as a badge of honor.
The classic design includes:
- Melton wool body
- Contrasting leather sleeves
- Ribbed cuffs, collar and hem
- A chenille letter (usually the school’s initial)
The letter was a visual reward for having “earned it” through athletic performance. Hence the term “letterman.”
Origin: From Harvard to the world
The history of the varsity jacket goes back to 1865, when Harvard’s baseball team introduced sweaters with a stitched “H.” As other schools and sports adopted the practice, the piece evolved from sweater to jacket.
By the 1930s and 1940s, the varsity jacket had taken the shape we recognize today. It was no longer just functional it was a symbol of achievement, pride and identity. Wearing a varsity jacket meant you belonged.
Varsity jackets as a cultural icon
Eventually, varsity jackets left the campus and entered pop culture through film, music, and fashion.
In the 1950s, it became a symbol of American youth.
In the 1980s and 90s, it was embraced by hip-hop and R&B (think Michael Jackson in Thriller, or Kanye West in his early days).
Today, it’s a global staple of streetwear.
Over the decades, the varsity jacket has become more than clothing it represents youth, rebellion, nostalgia, and belonging.
Why vintage varsity jackets are so valuable
Original vintage varsity jackets (made decades ago) are highly prized for several reasons:
- Authentic materials: thick wool, real leather, hand-sewn patches.
- Unique designs: real school initials, team names, personal names.
- Storytelling: each jacket has history. It’s not fast fashion it’s cultural heritage.
- Durability: made to last decades.
- Emotional and aesthetic value: fashion with a story attached.
Current trends (2026)
Varsity jackets are more relevant than ever in today’s fashion scene:
- Oversized and retro: big cuts, material blends, bold color blocking.
- Satin finishes: shiny baseball-style jackets.
- Customization: patches, embroidery, names each one is unique.
- High fashion collabs: brands like Gucci, Supreme, Off-White, and Balenciaga have released varsity jackets.
And the best part? All this hype is driving up demand for authentic vintage jackets, not just imitations.
Why they sell so well in resale
If you run a vintage shop or sell on platforms like Vinted or Depop, varsity jackets are a top-performing product:
- High margins: they sell at strong prices, even when bought in bulk.
- Timeless appeal: always in style.
- Dedicated buyers: collectors and lovers of American culture.
- Highly photogenic: they look great in product shots and on social media.
Where to buy vintage varsity jackets wholesale
At Terranova Vintage Wholesale, you can find vintage jacket bales that include authentic varsity jackets. Each bale contains selected pieces imported from the USA, and you can request mixed categories or jacket-focused bales.
Physical stores and online resellers are already adding these garments to their collections because of their high perceived value and strong rotation.
Conclusion
Varsity jackets aren’t just a trend they’re a part of fashion history, American identity, and youth culture. Having one in your shop (or in your closet) means owning a piece with real soul.
If you’re thinking of adding varsity jackets to your resale business or just want to understand why they’ve gone viral again, remember this: you’re not just selling a jacket you’re selling a story.
