A Symbol of Pride, Then and Now
There’s something about slipping into a varsity jacket that brings memories rushing back. Maybe it’s the crisp sound of the snap buttons, the soft touch of wool, or the way that chenille letter sits proudly on your chest. For many, it’s not just a jacket—it’s a piece of their youth. And even for those wearing it for the first time today, it still carries that same sense of pride.
Harvard’s Humble Beginning
Not many people know this, but the varsity jacket’s story started over 150 years ago—at Harvard, in 1865. Back then, it wasn’t even a jacket. It was a sweater, worn by standout baseball players with a big “H” stitched on the front. Only the best got to wear it, and even then, they had to earn it again each season. That stitched letter wasn’t just decoration—it was proof that you belonged.
When Sweaters Became Jackets
Fast forward a few decades, and schools began swapping sweaters for something sturdier. Wool jackets with leather sleeves took over—and they weren’t just practical. They were bold. Recognizable. Iconic. By the 1930s, the classic varsity jacket as we know it had arrived, and it quickly became a symbol of school spirit across the country.
Not Just for Athletes Anymore
While varsity jackets started on the sports field, it didn’t take long for other students to make them their own. Academic achievers, marching band members, student council leaders—they all began earning their letters too. The message was simple: if you worked hard and represented your school, you deserved to wear it.
Each letter, each patch, and each stitch told a personal story.
From Lockers to the Limelight
By the time the 80s and 90s rolled around, varsity jackets had made their way off-campus. Rappers, rockstars, and movie stars began sporting them. Suddenly, you didn’t need a school team to rock one—you just needed a love for the look. High fashion took notice. Streetwear claimed it. And what started as a student tradition became a cultural icon.
Today’s Varsity Jacket Is Yours to Define
That’s where we come in. At Jacket Authority, we build varsity jackets the way they were meant to be—personal, meaningful, and made to last. Whether you’re recreating the classic look or putting your own spin on it, we help you tell your story through fabric, patches, and craftsmanship.
Choose your school colors—or invent your own. Go traditional or totally modern. Wool, leather, or vegan materials—every part is up to you. Your jacket. Your way.
Built with Care. Made to Remember.
Every jacket we make starts with a blank slate. We don’t pull from pre-made templates. Instead, we build your design from scratch. From cutting the body fabric to stitching the lining, applying custom embroidery, and adding final touches—every detail is crafted with pride.
Want quilted lining? Metallic lettering? A tribute patch? Let’s make it happen. We’re not just building jackets. We’re helping people preserve moments.
Why Varsity Jackets Still Matter
In a fast-moving world, varsity jackets bring something rare—a sense of permanence. They’re not trends. They’re timeless. Whether you wore yours 20 years ago or are designing one today, they hold the same weight. A varsity jacket is a keepsake. A uniform of memories.
Create One That Tells Your Story
Whatever moment you want to celebrate—graduation, your brand, a team, or just your personal style—we’re here to help you design a jacket that speaks for you.