What are Varsity Jackets? |
Posted: November 27, 2018 |
Perhaps one of the most versatile wardrobe pieces, varsity jackets were popularized by American colleges. Comfortable, stylish and classy, varsity jackets are must-haves. They are classic favorites that appeal not just to men but women too. Have you ever wondered where, when and how varsity jackets started? Varsity jackets of the pastThe first varsity jackets were originally worn by Harvard University students in Massachusetts and Cambridge campuses in 1865. Back in the days, this fashion piece looked quite peculiar. In fact, they didn’t look like the “varsity jacket” that we know nowadays. They were thick knit sweaters worn as uniforms by college athletes. The Harvard Baseball team popularized giant letter appliqué in the center of the jacket – that’s why they are also known as “letterman jacket.” Unlike Varsity Base jackets that can be worn by anyone, the first varsity jackets were exclusive to members of the Harvard baseball team. In order to wear the letterman jacket, you’d have to qualify in the school’s varsity. But that’s not the only rule; you also needed to perform well in the games to keep the jacket. Athletes who never saw the field were forced to return their jerseys. It was enough of a motivation for the players. The letter jacket has become a symbol of prestige and honor, which made it more alluring. After about a decade, Harvard football team adopted the lettered jerseys. Soon, many schools, athletic clubs, and teams in the US followed through, with their unique designs. Varsity jackets of the modern dayAs years pass by, the varsity jackets have become a free-for-all fashion piece. And given its versatility, it’s not entirely surprising why everyone has embraced it. Even those who aren’t the active, outdoorsy type can go around wearing a varsity jacket. Just like any longstanding fashion pieces, the letterman jacket has undergone tons of transformations and tweaks before it finally got its present look. Despite changes in size, color, font of the letter, logo, and placement of the letter or logo on the jacket, the original American varsity style has largely remained the same. Varsity jackets are continuously evolving. In recent years, we’ve seen how varsity jackets have changed its designs, cuts, and fabrics. The varsity has departed from its traditional boxy fit to a more contemporary, stylish appeal. This new style also allows the varsity jacket to be versatile. It can be styled casually or smartly depending on the occasion. These transformations have made the varsity jacket in-tune with modern fashion. The changes have also cemented it as a mainstay in wardrobes of both men and women. The rising popularity of sportswear trend has also made varsity jackets a huge hit. Contemporary varsity jackets have dropped the polarizing, pesky letter. They now come in a wide range of brands, each with their unique designs, colors, cuts, and materials used. But here’s the best news: you can even get a personalized letterman jacket, customized and designed only for you. So, whether you’re a true-blue athlete or just an avid fan, there’s a varsity jacket out there that will suit your personality and style.
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