New Yorkers Are Flocking Toward This Easy Staple—27 Varsity Jackets They Want

If you like people-watching as much as I do, allow me to indulge you in my latest fashion sighting while living in NYC. New Yorkers are embracing a vintage classic with open arms—yup, the varsity jacket. These iconic jackets, once reserved for high school athletes, have cycled in and out of my life as a fashion person.
When I was in my first-ever high school musical, Grease, the very cool main characters wore varsity jackets, and so did I. In college, I also had a period of time when all I wanted to wear was a vintage varsity jacket. The bouncer in our college town surprisingly thought I was of age because my jacket had graduation years that were just a bit older than my own. With all of the memories that come along with the idea of wearing a variety jacket, I'm quite excited about its return to the fashion world.
What's driving this sudden surge in varsity-jacket popularity? It's not just about staying warm during the brisk East Coast winters; it's about expressing individuality and a sense of unity with the city. New Yorkers are known for their unique sense of style, and these jackets provide the perfect canvas for personalization. From vintage-inspired designs to modern, sleek silhouettes, there's a varsity jacket for every taste. Make your own memories with one of the options that I've sourced below.
This story was originally published at an earlier date and has since been updated.

Sierra Mayhew is a fashion editor at Who What Wear, bringing a decade of industry experience to the editorial team. Since joining in 2021, she has made her mark by blending luxury and accessible fashion, decoding runway trends, and curating must-have shopping lists. Before joining Who What Wear, Sierra sharpened her skills at Harper's Bazaar and Elle, with bylines in Bazaar.com and collaborated with iconic brands such as Gucci and Ferragamo. A graduate of the University of Notre Dame, Sierra translates editorial expertise into viral social content, making fashion engaging for a new generation. Her unique perspective is rooted in her love for travel, music, and discovering the hidden gems that make New York City a constant source of inspiration.
-
It's True: The Best (Real) Suede Finds of the Season Are From Zara, Mango, and More
No need to overspend.
-
My Mom Is in Her 50s and Asked Me for Fashion Advice—8 Chic Nordstrom Outfits I Put Together for Her Under $425
Outdated prints and "ugly" shoes included.
-
Consider This Your Heads-Up: The Coolest People in Fashion Are Already Wearing This New Elegant Outerwear Brand
Founded and designed by celebrity stylist Rob Zangardi.
-
Nordstrom's Fall Sale Is Almost Over: Tory Burch Shoes and Ralph Lauren Jackets to Shop Before It Ends
Only two days left.
-
Why Did I Wait So Long to Buy Into This Rich-Looking Jacket Style?
Now, it's in my fall rotation.
-
Fashionable People Would Like These Fall Trends From Amazon's October Prime Day
See the affordable yet chic finds.
-
I’m a Senior Shopping Editor—Here’s Everything I Highly Recommend Buying From the Mango Sale
Get 30% off just about everything
-
You're 100% a Fashion Person If You're Wearing This Fall Jacket Trend—I Found 25 of the Chicest Ones for Under $180
Instantly elevate your outfit.