Rag and Bone; $695.00
From the universally cool Converse Chuck Taylor's to the eponymous Polo shirt, men have been adopting items from the sporting world into their daily wardrobes pretty much since they started caring about fashion (lets not forget that the Bowler hat was designed primarily as a gentleman's riding hat). The problem is that some of these items make the transition more smoothly than others. This season brings yet another foray into classic ivy league sporting style with designers pushing the varsity jacket as the newest must have item. The varsity or letterman jacket traditionally has a heavy wool body with arms in leather and is adorned with various totems of athletic achievement such as patches, stripes or pins. When you wear one in school it sends a clear message that you are proud of your team and your athletic ability, however sporting one after graduation sends a more muddled message.
On the average man who doesn't spend his week prepping to play in the weekend's big game, a varsity jacket can end up looking sad and out of place. The wearer either appears adolescent and immature (in the case of most 20 somethings who attempt the look) or like they are unwilling to let go of the "glory days" (anyone over the age of 30, especially if you're exercise regimen has lapsed). If you want to incorporate a classic sense of school spirit into your wardrobe without the risk of appearing either inexperienced or washed up, a better option is the cardigan. Its more versatile than a varsity jacket and comes without the guilt of wearing championship patches you didn't earn (either way you go, skip the patches).
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