How to Style a Varsity Jacket for Women: Classic Looks with a Modern Twist

The varsity jacket is a fashion classic that has stood the test of time, originally associated with school athletes and team spirit. Over the years, it has evolved from a purely athletic garment to a stylish, versatile piece that can be incorporated into many different looks. Whether you’re channeling a casual street style vibe or dressing up for a night out, a varsity jacket can add a fun and sporty flair to your wardrobe. Here’s how you can style a varsity jacket for women and make it your own with a modern twist.

1. Pair with Casual Denim

A varsity jacket’s sporty vibe pairs effortlessly with denim, creating a cool, laid-back look that’s perfect for everyday wear. Whether you opt for classic skinny jeans, relaxed boyfriend jeans, or a chic pair of high-waisted mom jeans, the combination of a varsity jacket and denim will always work.

How to Style It: For a simple, no-fuss look, pair your varsity jacket with a plain white t-shirt or graphic tee, tucked into high-waisted jeans. Finish off the look with white sneakers or casual boots. For a more polished take, try pairing the jacket with skinny jeans and heeled ankle boots for a slightly elevated outfit while still keeping the casual vibe.

2. Add Feminine Touches with a Skirt or Dress

While varsity jackets are often associated with tomboyish and sporty styles, they can also be dressed up to create a unique balance of feminine and athletic. Pairing your jacket with a skirt or dress can add a playful and unexpected contrast, making it a perfect look for a night out or a weekend brunch.

How to Style It: For a cute and chic look, pair a varsity jacket with a flowy midi skirt or a pleated mini skirt. Underneath, wear a fitted turtleneck or a casual graphic tee for added warmth and style. For shoes, a pair of ankle boots or sleek sneakers will keep the look fun yet fashionable. Alternatively, if you’re going for a dressier vibe, you could pair a varsity jacket with a slip dress and strappy heels to give it a sporty-casual edge.

3. Make it Street Style with Statement Accessories

One of the easiest ways to elevate a varsity jacket is by adding statement accessories. From hats to bags and sunglasses, the right accessories can give your varsity jacket a stylish upgrade, turning it into a statement piece in your outfit.

How to Style It: A simple varsity jacket looks great when paired with oversized sunglasses, a sleek crossbody bag, and a trendy beanie or baseball cap. For colder months, a stylish scarf or gloves will not only keep you warm but also add extra flair to your look. Don’t be afraid to experiment with bold accessories that can complement the sporty aesthetic of the jacket while adding a unique touch to your outfit.

4. Layer Over a Hoodie or Sweatshirt

Varsity jackets naturally pair well with athleisure, making them the perfect outerwear for layering over hoodies or sweatshirts. The combination of soft, comfortable layers with a structured jacket is perfect for colder months, while still keeping your look chic and modern.

How to Style It: For a cozy and casual look, layer your varsity jacket over a hoodie, a sweatshirt, or even a turtleneck sweater. Opt for a hoodie in a complementary color, like gray or black, to keep the look cohesive. Pair with joggers or leggings and slip on some stylish sneakers to complete the athleisure-inspired outfit. For an added edge, you can accessorize with a chunky chain necklace or a minimalistic crossbody bag.

5. Play with Color Blocking

Color-blocking is a trend that’s been popular in fashion for several seasons, and varsity jackets lend themselves perfectly to this bold and striking style. Many varsity jackets already feature color-blocked elements like contrasting sleeves or a bold stripe across the chest, which can make the jacket a statement piece.

How to Style It: When wearing a color-blocked varsity jacket, try to balance the bold colors by pairing it with more neutral pieces. A simple pair of black or white pants or a skirt will help to keep the look grounded, allowing the jacket to be the standout feature of your outfit. If you’re feeling adventurous, add matching colored shoes or a bag that complements the color-blocking of the jacket, giving you a cohesive, on-trend look.

6. Layer Over a Button-Down Shirt for a Preppy Twist

For a more polished, preppy vibe, layer your varsity jacket over a button-down shirt. This adds sophistication and structure to the sporty look, while keeping the outfit stylish and functional.

How to Style It: Opt for a button-down shirt in a classic print like gingham, plaid, or stripes, and layer it under your varsity jacket. Pair this look with tailored pants, cropped trousers, or a pencil skirt for a smart yet relaxed outfit. To finish, slip on loafers or brogues for a chic preppy touch, or go with sneakers for a more casual take.

7. Experiment with Bold Prints and Patterns

Varsity jackets are inherently bold with their contrasting colors, but you can make your outfit even more eye-catching by pairing the jacket with prints and patterns. Mixing prints can be intimidating, but when done right, it creates an exciting, fashion-forward look.

How to Style It: Try pairing your varsity jacket with a striped top, a patterned skirt, or checkered pants. You can also experiment with polka dots or animal prints for a truly unique and personal look. The key to pulling this off is to keep the color palette consistent. Stick to a cohesive range of colors for both your varsity jacket and the print you’re mixing it with, so it looks intentional rather than chaotic.

8. Go Monochrome for a Sleek, Modern Look

If you’re not into clashing colors and bold patterns, a monochrome outfit might be the perfect way to style your varsity jacket. Monochrome styling is all about sticking to one color family to create a sleek and streamlined look that feels fresh and modern.

How to Style It: Pick a color like black, white, or gray and style your varsity jacket with other pieces in the same color family. For example, wear a black varsity jacket with black jeans, a black t-shirt, and black sneakers for a chic, streamlined look. Monochromatic outfits are not only stylish but also effortlessly chic and easy to put together.

Conclusion

The varsity jacket is a wardrobe staple that has moved far beyond the athletic field. With its sporty edge and versatile styling options, it’s a piece that can be dressed up or down for any occasion. From pairing it with denim for a casual look to experimenting with bold prints and patterns for a modern twist, the varsity jacket offers endless styling possibilities. Whether you’re going for a chic, preppy, or laid-back vibe, the varsity jacket can be the perfect piece to elevate your outfit. Embrace this timeless classic, and make it your own with a modern twist!