Observed in Chicago: The Jacket Trend Set to Overtake Leather Blazers and Bombers.
Last weekend, the most cherished players in the WNBA gathered in Chicago for the largest All-Star Weekend in the league's history, attracting a record 19,783 fans to the All-Star Game—the first instance of the WNBA surpassing the NBA in attendance. However, basketball wasn’t the only highlight of the three-day event. Given the growth of the league in recent years, it’s no surprise that various brands wanted to be involved, with Coach being one of them. As the official handbag partner of the WNBA, the leather-goods brand played a key role in making the 2026 All-Star Weekend not just successful, but stylish as well. Among all the apparel worn by their athlete ambassadors—including Paige Bueckers, Azzi Fudd, and Breanna Stewart—a specific item stood out, and it wasn’t a bag (though the Tabby and Empire models were indeed everywhere). The standout fashion piece? Varsity jackets—specifically, custom Coach varsity jackets. As an attendee of the weekend, I noticed personalized versions on six WNBA players, who showcased them at various parties, events, and the WNBA Shooting Stars and 3-Point Contest, including at Coach Story Sessions and the brand's W Live pop-up. Each jacket was unique, featuring individual details that provided hints about the off-court passions of the players, offering a glimpse into their identities beyond just being athletes.
On Azzi Fudd: Custom Coach jacket; Coach skirt, Margot Sandal ($175), and Tabby Shoulder Bag 20 ($375). "Seeing my initials, number, and team on my varsity jacket was such a thoughtful touch," Fudd shared with Who What Wear about the denim-blue jacket she paired with a jean miniskirt and heeled mules on Friday morning. "I love being part of a partnership that champions women and celebrates our individuality.” Her former UConn and current Dallas Wings teammate, Bueckers, echoed a similar sentiment regarding the custom varsity jacket she wore with jeans and Coach's Leah Loafers at the WNBA Shooting Stars and 3-Point Contest on Friday night. "One thing I love most about working with Coach is their intentionality in celebrating women and investing in women’s sports," said the 2025 Rookie of the Year. "Wearing a varsity jacket personalized with my initials, number, team, and my siblings’ initials made it even more special to represent the WNBA during All-Star Weekend."
According to Coach, their current varsity-jacket offerings are just the beginning—a preview of a broader selection that’s set to be released this fall. The brand currently offers a variety of minimalist styles as well as those adorned with multiple patches. If you choose the former, you’ll have ample opportunity to personalize your jacket like Bueckers and Fudd did, adding your own unique touches.
In a few weeks, Coach’s fall/winter 2026 collection will feature a range of sporty fashion items. The February show in New York City showcased models carrying an array of sports-themed handbags made from deflated footballs and basketballs, alongside a catcher's mitt. The collection also included vintage football tees and skate shoes to enhance its sporty vibe.
Before the fall season arrives and these desirable varsity jackets sell out, take a look at the current styles available from Coach below. You can customize them at home to replicate the looks worn by the W’s leading stars.
Shop Coach Varsity Jackets:
Coach
Wool Varsity Jacket
Coach
Restored Oversized Classic Varsity Jacket
Only one size remains. Who will snag it?
Coach
Wool Varsity Jacket
This is ideal for anyone looking to get creative—patches, iron, and all.
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Observed in Chicago: The Jacket Trend Set to Overtake Leather Blazers and Bombers.
At the WNBA All-Star event in Chicago last weekend, Coach's bespoke varsity jackets were prominently worn by notable players such as Angel Reese and Paige Bueckers.