The Ultimate Varsity Style Guide

The ‘90s and ‘00s renaissance has kept us captivated time and time again over the past few years of fashion, and its chokehold shows no signs of relinquishing. But this time around? We’re bringing Y2K back to school. 

 

But what, you may be wondering, does ‘varsity style’ actually mean? 

Varsity Style Explained

While usually synonymous with classic Varsity (or Letterman) jackets, the American Sportswear trend looks slightly different this time around. 

Now, runway references to varsity fashion are decidedly more subtle. Recent fashion week shows have seen MSGM featuring collegiate graphics and back-to-school styling, while Family First nods to preppy varsity sports style within their latest A/W23 collections. If this tells us anything, it’s that this trend is definitely on the rise.

In 2023, varsity style features modern light silhouettes highlighting chalk tones through to fresh vibrant shades. It's a new chapter for this timeless look. The collegiate style is thriving in American and European fashion brands for Spring 2023. 

Lucky for us, we at Gen Woo managed to get ahead of the curve - and you can, too! 

Featuring classic Gen Woo playfulness and sustainable craftsmanship, our take on varsity style comes in the form of our Y2K Collegiate capsule collection.

Specially created with tweens and Gen Z women in mind, these pieces perfectly combine Y2K influence with 2023’s most on-trend designs. 

Stepping away from our usual neutrals comfort zone (don’t get us wrong, we’re still die-hard greige fans too), the Y2K Collegiate capsule collection utilises vivid pops of colour and preppy silhouettes for the ultimate throwback ‘school girl’ feel. 

So whether you’re a long-time preppy-chic advocate or just feel like dipping your toe into a new realm of style this season, we’re here to give you the 411 on nailing the varsity-inspired look. 

Get The Y2K Collegiate Look

Our teen varsity cropped t-shirt in violet (pictured above) in fabulous acid wash gives a great boxy silhouette complete with Harvard University motif. Or try our similar Yale University t-shirt in lavender, both made in 100% BCI sustainable cotton. 

 

Starting at the basics, a contrast-binding tank top or simple tee instantly adds fun and youthful energy to any ‘fit. For super simple styling, add a pair of coordinating runner shorts and a slouchy sweater - comfy, playful, and effortlessly trendy. Our blue and white retro track shorts perfectly capture the vintage American sportswear look.  Combine with our matching retro ladies racer tank top for a matching outfit, in either blue or red.

 

 

To elevate your Ivy League look, try adding a statement collared polo or layer with a structured blazer for the ultimate prep aesthetic. Try our oversized blazer featuring a double-breasted detail with brass buttons. Wear open or closed, and why not push the sleeves up for that 90s preppy look. 

Or if you prefer something more fitted, try our cropped tailored blazer for a sharp, clean aesthetic reminiscent of Cher Horowitz' Ivy League look in Clueless! 

For more inspiration, visit our Y2K Collegiate Collection page. 

However you choose to style your varsity look, you can rest assured you are wearing a look that is on-trend this year. Head over to our collection pages to see the full range from blazers and jackets, polo shorts and sweatshirts, shorts, skirts and skorts to complete your collegiate college look with flair. 

 

Stay stylish! 

GEN WOO x