STYLE ADVICE OF THE WEEK: Varsity Blues

With that cold gust of wind we received from Hurricane Sandy, it is finally time to break out the winter coats here in Atlanta. One of my favorites this season is the variation on the classic varsity jacket of our high school years. The look is sporty without being too obvious. It’s channeling the “your quarterback boyfriend let you borrow his jacket after the prom” look. Similar to how it was back in the day, it is equally coveted now. Whether it is the monogrammed version or more of a printed matter, it is a total must have for all Fashionistas and Fashionistos.

I spotted this Fashionista rocking a varsity jacket in a pretty combo of blue and gray. The adorable jacket blends nicely with her worn-in skinny jeans and simple V-neck top. For a similar look to take you back to your high school days, try this one from Madewell. If you’re looking for more of a chic variation, one of my favorites is from Joe's Jeans. I love the leather sleeves and black watch plaid to keep you cozy in the elements. This Fashionista finishes her look off with a killer pair of lace-up booties with buckles and a colorful statement choker from Forever 21. Another way to style your varsity would be in a more feminine way. Try a swingy mini skirt, a graphic tee and a pair of oxford lace-ups to channel your inner schoolgirl. Regardless, the athletic inspired jacket will have you winning every time.

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STYLE ADVICE OF THE WEEK: Varsity Blues

Ladies and gentleman of Corvallis, I am proud to present my first Fashionisto! I spotted this stylish guy wearing one of my favorite trends for the fall/winter season: the letterman jacket. Originally, these jackets have been seen as a badge of honor among high school athletes. This season, they have been reinvented to create a more modern, streamlined silhouette. This week’s Fashionisto chose to wear a toned-down version, paired with dark jeans, white tee and black high tops. The ensemble is a more adult, understated way to wear collegiate-style gear without looking like you’re trying to re-live your high school years. This particular jacket is by Ezekiel, but there is such an array of styles available this season. This Stussy version mimics the classic high school jacket, while this felted wool option serves as just a slight nod to days passed.

The collegiate jacket trend is hot for both sexes this season. Everyone from Alexander Wang to Prabal Gurung has incorporated the letterman jacket into his or her high fashion line. The more attainable options channel classic letterman styles, but have been updated to fit more femininely than the original oversized and boxy shape. Free People offers this spin on the varsity jacket with distressed black denim and wool. This version by Madewell is chic and grown-up. If youre looking to just dip your toe into the trend, this inexpensive option by Forever 21 is a great pick. Another bonus: the varsity style jacket is extremely versatile. It looks awesome paired with boyfriend jeans, a sleek skirt, or even colored pants. My favorite pairing would be cropped and tailored trousers, a white button down, and pointed black heels.

This fall, try incorporating this updated piece of American culture into your wardrobe. You can go subtle with a dark palette, like our stylish guy of the week, or try a more nostalgic version with leather sleeves and high school-style embroidery. Either way, I’m looking forward to seeing stylish guys and gals rocking this unisex trend on campus this fall!

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STYLE ADVICE OF THE WEEK: Varsity Blues

As fall quickly approaches, I'm drawn to preppy looks that make me nostalgic for high school. Varsity jackets, sporty socks and graphic crewnecks all come to mind. When I spotted this Fashionista strolling through Rittenhouse, I knew I needed to photograph her updated jock inspired style. Her look is mismatched, but held together by a school spirit-esque crimson. Her graphic crewneck is cozy and kept interesting by a bold chunky necklace and a slight arm party of bangles that work perfectly with her shorts.

Accessories make this outfit. Especially her sporty socks topped with a lime detail paired perfectly, imperfectly with her blue and white Keds. A cross-body bag replaces the classic high school backpack keeping the look updated for college.

To get this Fashionista's look, get inspiration from your high school alma mater. I'm biased towards crimson, white and red plaids (go Tartans!). For crewnecks I'm partial to KarmaLoop's funky selection, and fell in love with this crimson beauty. To take the prep factor up a notch, add a plaid button-up like this one from Urban Outfitters. Add any chunky necklace tucked under the collar like this Fashionista for an extra pop. If this look is a bit too bold for you, substitute printed shorts for Levi's. For socks, I reccommend this cheeky pair from Married to the Mob.

Even if your style has changed immensely from your high school years, you can still find inspiration from your high school wardrobe – even if it comes from Abercrombie & Fitch hoodies and Ralph Lauren polos. Update those old pieces for a nostalgic look fit for Varsity fashion.

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STYLE ADVICE OF THE WEEK: Varsity Blues

Score style points for your college this summer by investing in the varsity trend. This Fashionista gives the collegiate, preppy trend a lady-like twist here with a body con skirt. Crisp whites, from the stripes of her T-shirt to the laces of her shoes, highlight the red and blue tones in the outfit (giving a traditionally American look a very British colour scheme). However, U.S. brands (Vans pumps and an American Apparel bag) scream team America!

The varsity jacket, especially, is the key item here. Traditionally forming part of the uniform for American sports players, it was used to denote a player's standing in their sport. It was initially made popular as a fashion garment by rappers, but until fairly recently it was hard to find versions on high street. As the focal garment of any classic Americana college wardrobe, it leads the trend. A wool and leather style is the ultimate genuine article, particularly if it is oversized and thus achieving that borrowed-from-the-quarterback look. However, jackets in lighter fabrics such as flannel are better for summer. With celebrity endorsement from the likes of Marina Diamandis (of Marina and the Diamonds fame) and styles from the big dogs such as Alexander Wang and Isabel Marant seen on the runway, it is clear that this jacket has crossed over permanently from sport to fashion territory.

This See by Chloé ladies baseball jacket is lady-like and relaxed at the same time and will set you back a tidy £295. Seriously committed to this trend? Thejacketshop.com allows you to design your own jacket, including style, colour, detail and embroidery. Perfect if you want one with your own initials! Trusty eBay is full of genuine and not-so-genuine varsity jackets in varying conditions and prices.

At the end of the term, celebrate college style the traditional way in a varsity jacket. Go team!