Whenever we get the opportunity of watching a movie or a show, it is usually a strong plot, an unanticipated twist, or some powerful acting on part of the cast that intrigues us. But what we do love is when that movie or show also blesses us with that one very inspiring fashion moment. This is where great things happen–on the big screen. Brands make their mark, centuries-old trends revive, characters make sartorial statements, and fashion trends immortalize. A perfect example? The varsity jacket.
Whether it is dangling off the shoulders of a chic, fashion-forward female or warming the back of a typical high-school jock, the varsity jacket aptly defines the heroes and villains in our movies. It helps build their character more than any other piece of garment, effortlessly pushing the narrative forward.
From Andrew Clark in The Breakfast Club to Julien Calloway in Gossip Girl, we’ve put together the ultimate list of the most iconic varsity jacket looks on film, ever – along with similar pieces you can buy right now. Read, watch, and learn. Let’s go.
1 | THE BREAKFAST CLUB
Year: 1985
It wasn’t his confidence or even his competitive attitude that marked Emilio Estevez’s Andrew Clark as a stereotypical jock character in John Hughes’ coming-of-age comedy drama, The Breakfast Club. In fact, it was the varsity jacket that truly defined his character. Worn over a blue hoodie and a plain white tee, Clark effortlessly showed the varsity jacket’s potential as a transitional layering piece, including the nonchalance required to pull it off. Throughout the movie, Clark’s blue varsity jacket provided an insight into his character and honestly, did a great job in doing so.
Andrew Clark in Happy Days
Royal Blue and Black Leather Letterman Jacket
2 | HAPPY DAYS
Year: 1974
Over the years, the varsity jacket has had a major role in movies and tv shows. For example, The Breakfast Club in 1985, Baby Driver in 2017, and Gossip Girl in 2021. The jacket’s most legendary appearance, however, came earlier when Ron Howard’s typical high-school jock character, Richie Cunningham, wore it in Happy Days. Richie was the perfect example of the 50s wholesome, clean-cut, American teenager who was always willing to stand up for what he believed in. And his red varsity jacket did a great job of reflecting both his modesty and righteousness.
Richie Cunningham in The Breakfast Club
Stag Wears’ Red Letterman Jacket
3 | BABY DRIVER
Year: 2017
While Ansel Elgort’s 2017 Baby Driver undoubtedly blesses us with a perfect dose of thrill and a killer soundtrack, the movie doesn’t quite get the sartorial respect that it deserves. He might drive hundreds of miles an hour, but it is impossible for you to miss Ansel rocking a blue varsity jacket on all his heists. On his quest to seek freedom from a life of crime and robberies, Baby proves one basic rule of style. That every guy, even extremely talented go-to getaway drivers for criminal activities, can look terrific in a varsity jacket.
Baby in Baby Driver
Stag Wears’ Custom Leather Varsity Jacket
4 | GOSSIP GIRL REBOOT
Year: 2021
We’ve said this before and we’ll say it again: varsity jackets are not just for jocks anymore and like so many other garments, women have gracefully taken this iconic jacket from men and have put their own bold twist on the piece. Our proof? The television screen.
Earlier this year, Gossip Girl reboot’s pilot featured Constance Billard’s new queen bee, Julien Calloway, wearing white sneakers, bike shorts, and a statement designer bag. While her outfit was simple and sporty, Julien injected some preppy polish into the look by throwing in an oversized burgundy varsity jacket. A huge update to Serena and Blair’s signature style that we whole-heartedly approve of.
Julien Calloway in Gossip Girl Reboot
Custom Faux Leather Letterman Jacket
Varsity jackets are totally in this season and no wonder we’re seeing them all over town. Hurry and grab your favorite silver screen inspired varsity jacket from our edit before they run out. Looking for something particular? Design yours here.