Here’s How to Get the Varsity Look This Fall
Think rugby shirts, letterman jackets and other preppy styles.
Preppy style dominated the runway at shows like Lacoste, Tommy Hilfiger and Wales Bonner this season. Part retro and part collegiate, the new varsity look is all about sporty layers, heritage emblems and a dash of nostalgia.
From cropped cable-knit vests to designer varsity jackets, here are ten ways to try preppy style now.
Gucci Cotton Jersey Printed Sweatshirt
Who wouldn’t want to enrol at Gucci University? This 100 per cent cotton, heavy-felted men’s jersey sweatshirt is made in Italy and will instantly elevate your go-to denim or work-from-home sweats.
Sporty & Rich Varsity Crest Hat
Send a fun and sassy message with this unisex baseball cap from New York-based lifestyle brand Sporty & Rich. We’re here for the oversized logo, and the tongue-in-cheek branding. A preppy style must-have, for sure.
J. Crew Athletic Crew Socks
Striped crew socks will instantly add a sporty vibe to your look. They look great with sneakers, but are even more fun with dressier footwear like loafers or lug sole boots.
H&M Cable Knit Sweater Vest
You could layer this sweater vest over a turtleneck or under a blazer, but it looks great just on its own, too. The boxy but cropped silhouette is perfect to wear with a pleated mini or wide-leg trousers.
Loewe Flow Runner
Give the varsity look a quiet luxury spin with these men’s nylon and suede sneakers by Spanish luxury house Loewe. The retro-inspired aesthetic is on point, and it will look just as good with khakis as with sweats.
Maje Embroidered Rhinestone Polo Dress
Looking for a glam take on the varsity trend? This embroidered rhinestone dress can be worn with sneakers for class, or cute, over-the-knee boots for a night out.
Louis Vuitton Calfskin Varsity Jacket
This men’s wool and leather jacket by Louis Vuitton combines two top trends: varsity and maritime motifs. It features a sailor’s knot-inspired monogram as well as a large embroidered shell.
Loro Piana Tennis Walk Sneakers
It’s never too late to embrace the “stealth wealth” trend. These suede and leather Loro Piana tennis shoes are handmade in Italy and feature the most discreet of logos.
Ambush Light Check Belts Mini Skirt
A preppy, pleated mini skirt is a varsity trend essential. Wear yours with a cropped sweater or oversized rugby shirt this fall.
Levi’s Union Rugby Shirt
Swap out your basic tee for a rugby shirt this fall. This relaxed fit, 100 per cent cotton rugby shirt is available in three different stripe colourways.
This article first appeared in FASHION’s October 2024 issue. Find out more here.
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Truc Nguyen is a freelance writer and whose work has appeared in The Globe and Mail, Teen Vogue, Elle Canada, CBC Life, Refinery29, Toronto Life and NUVO. She's a fashion school graduate, former celebrity stylist, and professional deal seeker.
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