Style History and Cultural Influence The varsity jacket, also widely known as the letterman jacket, is one of the most enduring symbols of American style, youth culture, and collective identity. Its history begins in the late 19th century at Harvard University, where athletes were awarded wool sweaters with chenille letters as visual markers of achievement. These sweaters quickly became status symbols, signifying not just athletic ability but also belonging to a prestigious group. By the 1930s, the sweater had evolved into the wool-and-leather jacket still recognizable today. Featuring ribbed cuffs, a button-front closure, and bold chenille patches, the varsity jacket became a highly visible badge of affiliation and pride. Through the mid-20th century, varsity jackets were tied to American campus life, associated with football players, cheerleaders, and the broader mythology of high school and college spirit. In the 1950s, the jacket became tied to American pop culture, often romant...
The Essential Guide to Zip-Up Hoodies: Everyday Versatility in Hoodies, Jackets, and Long Sleeve Shirts
Style History and Cultural Influence The zip-up hoodie is a modern staple that evolved directly from the pullover hoodie , first created in the 1930s by Champion as workwear for laborers in cold warehouses. The introduction of the zipper added a new dimension of versatility, transforming the garment from a simple pullover into a layering essential. With a full-length opening, zip-ups were easier to wear, remove, and adapt across changing climates. This small design innovation positioned the zip-up hoodie as a hybrid garment ,somewhere between casual sweatshirt and functional jacket. By the 1980s and 1990s, zip-up hoodies had carved out a strong identity within skateboarding, surfing, and hip-hop subcultures. For skaters and surfers, the garment represented ease of movement and weather adaptability, while in hip-hop communities, it was appreciated as both a blank canvas for identity and a symbol of laid-back street confidence. Unlike pullovers, which could appear slouchy or clo...