The One Jacket Trend Everyone Will Be Wearing This Winter

cheap letterman jackets

Preppy style—think tennis skirts and equestrian chic—continues to trend, and varsity jackets are at the forefront. We know what you’re thinking: Does this mean we’re going back to college days, when we threw one on over baggy sweats? We’re relieved to report that no, that’s not the case (yet). Instead, the varsity jacket is a casual alternative to a blazer or cardigan, with a little extra warming mojo.


With a steady climb in Pinterest searches since spring, when varsity jackets appeared both on the runways and on the backs of the tastemakersattending the shows, it’s safe to say letterman styles will be everywhere this coming fall. And while we saw cropped baseball jackets dominating a few years ago, the 2022 iterations are decidedly oversized and vintage-inspired. Whether you’re snapping up a new coat or thrifting one from 1987, here are seven ways to wear a varsity jacket like a pro.

To balance out the heavy wool outerwear, we’re seeing trend-lovers team the jackets up with sports bras or snug crop tops underneath. To build a cohesive look, stick to a simple color palete, like black, white or earthy hues. The unexpected cherry on top: a pair of luxe strappy heels.

Letterman jackets are sprinkled across our Instagram feeds along with another beloved fall trend: printed pants. Tuck a crisp white tank into a plaid pair and you’re ready for orientation at the prep school of your dreams (or, you know, a coffee run down the street).


Think biker shorts are reserved for steamy July days? Gossip Girl character Julien Calloway (portrayed by Jordan Alexander) proves the stretchy trend thrives in fall when coupled with a varsity jacket and sweatshirt combo. Another way to shield yourself from autumn’s chilly days: knee-high boots.


Floral, checkerboard, fruit-festooned—patterned skirts make these bomber coats feel more playful. Add formal touches, like your favorite heels and statement jewelry, to take the trend into dinner and drinks territory.


If you’re an avid TikTok scroller, you’ve probably noticed influencers sporting pleated skirts all over the app. But we’ll admit, wearing one feels kind of daunting. Fear not: Coterie member Amanda Stewart shows us how it’s done by combining the mini skirt with a roomy collegiate jacket, nameplate necklace and wrap-around pumps. To dress it down (or to give your feet a break) go for combat boots or trendy clogs.


Varsity jackets drum up memories of football players strutting down the halls on game day. But high school is over (thankfully), so why not make peace among cliques via your outfit? Pull from punk fashion and throw on some faux leather pants, chain jewelry and platform footwear to toughen up the look. Then queue up The Breakfast Club.


The best part about varsity jackets is you can easily pull them from your Dad’s closet or local consignment shop. But why stop there? Gather more inspo from Pop’s wardrobe and opt for oversized denim, thick white socks and old-school sneaks to tie the look together. Now go forth and remind loved ones to get their oil changed.


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