This jacket is available exclusively at Smokey Vale in Brooklyn, NY. For purchasing, please contact them.

Our signature varsity jacket is cut & sewn in-house from 19th century handwoven overshot coverlets. These gorgeous, reversible, almost psychedelic textiles are affectionately nicknamed “linsey-woolseys” for their linen & wool composition.

True to varsity jacket standards, these are fully lined in deadstock, USA-made satin and feature an inside welt pocket. Each jacket is trimmed with American-made ribbing, manufactured in Pennsylvania at a 100-year old family-run factory. In keeping with tradition, the ‘Linsey-Woolsey’ Varsity Jackets are closed with stainless steel snaps.

Furthermore, our varsity jackets play with both sides of the coverlet, using the lighter “summer” side for the sleeves against the darker “winter” body. This subtle two-tone effect is a nod to the classic Letterman style, and also honors the versatility of the original textile.

The ‘Linsey-Woolsey’ Varsity Jacket fits true-to-size. We suggest sizing up if you plan on layering heavily or prefer a roomier fit.

Please note: Even though these coverlets were expertly woven, they are, in some cases, 150 years old. Fasten and wear your jacket with care.

-Sewn from handwoven wool/linen overshot coverlet c. mid-1800s
-Fully lined in deadstock black satin (cotton/rayon)
-Pointed collar
-Shield patch pockets
-Navy blue heavyweight rib knit cuffs & waistband (100% acrylic)
-Inside welt pocket
-Selvedge denim locker loop
-Stainless steel snaps
-Single-needle stitching
-Handmade in Burlington, VT

More about “Linsey-Woolsey” Coverlets
These coverlets were handwoven by women throughout Appalachia, and like favorite dishes, the “recipes” for these patterns were passed down to their children and shared with neighbors. The coverlets that remain today are a real testament to the skill and tradition of these weavers. We recommend reading more here, and enjoyed watching this interview with weaver, Marinda Brown.