ClothooQuick answer: A varsity jacket is a school or team jacket that often has a chenille letter on the chest. Many people also call it a letterman jacket. The classic build uses a wool body, leather sleeves, striped rib knit, and a snap front. Today, it is worn for teams, school pride, and everyday style.
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Table of contents
- What does it mean?
- Key features
- Varsity vs letterman
- What the letter and patches mean
- Materials and why they matter
- How it should fit
- How to pick the right one
- How to style it
- How to care for it
- How to customize with Clothoo
- FAQs
- Sources
What does it mean?
This jacket is tied to school teams and campus life. The best-known detail is the letter on the chest. That letter usually stands for a school name or a team.
You will also hear the name “letterman jacket.” That name connects to the varsity letter award. A letterman is a student who earned that award.
If you want the traditional build, start with wool and leather styles.
Key features
Most versions share a familiar shape. Even modern fashion versions follow the same layout.
- Body: often Melton wool
- Sleeves: often leather or vegan leather
- Trim: striped rib knit collar, cuffs, and waistband
- Front: snap buttons are common
- Lining: quilted lining for warmth
- Decoration: chenille letters, embroidery, and patches
Varsity vs letterman
In real life, most people mean the same jacket.
| Term | What it points to | Common use |
|---|---|---|
| Varsity | Top school team level | The jacket style and the look |
| Letterman | The letter award | The jacket when the letter is the focus |
Simple rule: If the award matters most, people say “letterman.” If it is the style, people say “varsity.”
Want the full timeline and origin story? Read our full timeline guide.
What the letter and patches mean
Patches often tell a story. They can show achievement, identity, and memories.
Common patch meanings
- Big letter (left chest): school name, team, or varsity award
- Numbers: player number or a key year
- Year patch: season year or graduation year
- Captain symbol: leadership role
- Mascot patch: school or team identity
- Award patch: titles like “State Champs”
For decoration types and placement, use patch placement ideas.
Materials and why they matter
Materials change warmth, weight, and how the jacket wears over time.
- Melton wool: warm, structured, classic look
- Leather sleeves: durable and easy to wipe clean
- Satin: lighter feel with a smooth shine
- Fleece: soft and casual for daily wear
- Cotton twill: breathable and good for mild weather
To compare options, see materials and color options.
How it should fit
It should feel comfortable in the shoulders. You should be able to move your arms easily. The rib knit waistband should sit snug, not tight.
- Classic fit: a little room in the chest, clean at the waist
- Relaxed fit: slightly looser for layering
- Length: usually ends around the hip
Ordering for a group? Use the team sizing guide.
How to pick the right one
Choose based on weather, use, and the look you want.
- For cold weather: wool body with leather sleeves
- For lighter wear: satin, fleece, or twill
- For teams: keep names and numbers easy to read
- For school colors: use 2 main colors and 1 accent
If you are buying for a school or team, you may want group order support.
How to style it
This jacket works with simple outfits. Start basic, then build.
- Everyday: T-shirt, jeans, and sneakers
- Clean look: plain tee, chinos, and simple shoes
- Layered: hoodie under it on cold days
- Smart casual: button-down shirt and dark denim
How to care for it
Most wool and leather builds need gentle care.
- Follow the label: many wool and leather jackets need dry cleaning
- Spot clean: use a soft cloth for small marks
- Store smart: hang it on a wide hanger in a cool, dry place
- Keep shape: do not crush sleeves or rib knit
How to customize with Clothoo
If you want a jacket that tells your story, keep the layout clear. Make the text easy to read. Leave space so the main letter stands out.
Fast checklist
- Open the builder and choose a base style.
- Pick 2 to 3 main colors.
- Add a letter on the left chest.
- Add a name, number, and year if needed.
- Confirm sizes, then submit for a mockup.
Want ready styles? Shop the collection.
Need full custom help? Start a custom order.
FAQs
What is a varsity jacket?
It is a school or team jacket that often shows a chenille letter and patches.
What is a letterman jacket?
It is another common name. The term connects to the varsity letter award.
Are the two terms the same?
Most people use them the same way. The difference is mostly the wording.
What is the classic build made of?
Many classic jackets use a wool body, leather sleeves, and rib knit trim.
Do you need to earn a letter to wear one?
No. Many people wear this style for fashion and memories.
Sources
- Cambridge Dictionary: “letterman jacket” definition
- Merriam-Webster: “letterman” definition
- Harvard Gazette: varsity letter sweater tradition (1880s)
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