BIG NAMES ON CAMPUS: THE RISE OF ELEVATED VARSITY

If menswear's new direction is anything to go by, it’s the season to look sharp – cue: elevated varsity. This aesthetic is all about preppy staples and collegiate logos paired with modern sportswear and boxy silhouettes. Soon to land on your FYP, we’re here to help you get ahead with the trend highlights as well as the lowdown from James Lawrence, our Head of Menswear Design. Scroll for the scoop.

James explains, ‘It’s a mix of high-low – traditional pieces like tailoring and overcoats are styled with sportswear and trainers.’ Our suggestion? Layer on elevated pieces like tailored trousers and a smart coat, and dial it down with a track top.  

 

GET THE LOOK:

Weekday Pavo wool blend long coat In brown melange, £135 (similar)
Tommy Hilfiger essential half zip jumper in forest green, £110 (similar)

ASOS DESIGN smart wide leg trousers with front pleats in burgundy, £32

adidas Originals Country OG trainers in silver and green, £85
Alma de Ace co-ord zip up track jacket with contrast piping in navy, £85

There’s been a rise in legendary preppy brands like GANT and Tommy Jeans – these classics never go out of style and are key to the varsity look, oh and Alma de Ace is a beloved name that offers a modern feel. If you needed a reason to invest in everlasting staples, let this be it.

 

GET THE LOOK:

Mango shirt detail checkered shacket in navy, £89.99 (similar)

Polo Ralph Lauren icon logo cotton knit scarf in tan, £79 

Polo Ralph Lauren logo baseball cap in beige, £55 (similar)
ASOS DESIGN oversized balloon trouser with elasticated waist in ecru, £25 (similar)

Clarks Torhill hi boots in black suede, £110

Alma de Ace crewneck sweatshirt with appliqué chest logo in navy, £85

ASOS DESIGN oversized boxy shirt with embroidery in green stripe, £30

‘Everything on the bottom half is wide and baggy, whereas everything on the top half is cropped and really boxy’, says James – adding that ASOS DESIGN shirts and tees this season have been designed with a shorter hem and boxier cut as standard. The theme for the season is 50s cuts meet 90s minimalism – think high-rise, wide-leg trousers paired with a fuss-free polo knit, a cropped harrington jacket or hoodie – you really can’t go wrong.

 

GET THE LOOK:

ASOS DESIGN wool look harrington jacket in pink, £65
ASOS DESIGN oversized t-shirt in heavyweight 220gsm washed grey with front print, £22

ASOS DESIGN smart wide leg trousers in chocolate brown pinstripe, £34

adidas Originals Gazelle Indoor trainers in burgundy, £95 (similar)

Alma de Ace hoodie with logo embroidery in grey marl, £85

ASOS DESIGN boxy relaxed stripe shirt with chest embroidery in blue, £30

COLLUSION X004 unisex balloon jeans with in midwash, £39.99

James called it: ‘Varsity has never been more relevant’. Whether you're completing your 'fit with a varsity jacket, logo-knit cardigan or baseball cap – tune into *that* Americana academia aesthetic with a brand like Polo Ralph Lauren.

 

GET THE LOOK:

ASOS DESIGN oversized boxy fit knitted varsity cardigan in navy with badge detail, £32
ASOS DESIGN baggy chino in grey, £28
ASOS DESIGN boxy relaxed raglan t-shirt in cream, £18
Polo Ralph Lauren tote bag with bear logo in green and tan, £105
Jack & Jones double layer pendant chain in gold, £16
ASOS DESIGN oversized varsity jacket in black with faux leather sleeves, £70