Spotted in Chicago: The Jacket Trend Preparing to Usurp Leather Blazers and Bombers

Last weekend, the most beloved players in the WNBA descended on Chicago to participate in the biggest All-Star Weekend in league history, with a record 19,783 fans attending the All-Star Game—the first time the WNBA outdrew the NBA ever. But basketball wasn't the only happening over the three-day event. Given how much the W has grown in recent years, it should come as no surprise that brands from all over joined in on the action, Coach being one of them. As the official handbag partner of the WNBA, the leather-goods brand played a significant role in making the 2026 All-Star Weekend not only a success, but a stylish one at that. And of all the pieces they dressed their athlete ambassadors in—including Paige Bueckers, Azzi Fudd, and Breanna Stewart—there was particular item that seemed to make the greatest impact, and no, it wasn't a bag (though the Tabby and Empire versions were quite literally everywhere too).

The sartorial star of the show? Varsity jackets—custom Coach varsity jackets to be exact. As an attendee of the weekend myself, I personally spotted bespoke versions on six WNBA players, who wore them to various parties, obligations, and sporting events, including Coach Story Sessions, the brand's W Live pop-up, and the WNBA Shooting Stars and 3-Point Contest. Everyone's jacket was unique, featuring personal touches that gave fans in attendance (and online) hints about the off-court interests of their favorite players—a window into who they are as people instead of just 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 told Who What Wear about the denim-blue jacket that she wore 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, shared a similar sentiment about the custom varsity jacket she wore with jeans and Coach's Leah Loafers to the WNBA Shooting Stars and 3-Point Contest on Friday night. "One of the things I love most about working with Coach is how intentional they are in celebrating women and investing in women’s sports," the 2025 Rookie of the Year told us. "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."

On Paige Bueckers: Custom Coach jacket; Coach shirt, pants, Leah Loafers ($195), and Soft Empire Carryall Bag 40 ($750)

On Angel Reese: Custom Coach bag and jacket

According to Coach, the current varsity-jacket offering is just the tip of the iceberg—a hint at a larger selection that's expected to drop this fall. Of the options the brand is selling right now, there is a range of both minimalist styles and versions with multiple patches already sewn on. If you opt for the former, you'll have plenty of room to personalize your topper à la Bueckers and Fudd, adding your own unique touches.

On Olivia Miles: Custom Coach jacket; Coach Essential T-Shirt ($95), jeans, Leah Loafers ($195), and Soft Empire Carryall Bag 40 ($750)

On Gabriela Jaquez: Custom Coach jacket; Coach Horse and Carriage T-Shirt ($125), miniskirt, Leah Loafers ($195), and Tabby Shoulder Bag 26 ($475)

Meanwhile, in a few weeks, there will be all kinds of sporty fashion items to choose from once Coach's fall/winter 2026 collection arrives in stores and online. Models at the show, which took place in February in New York City, carried a slew of sports-themed handbags crafted out of deflated footballs and basketballs, as well as a catcher's mitt. Vintage football tees and skate shoes rounded out the collection's sportif additions.

Coach fall/winter 2026

Coach fall/winter 2026

Coach fall/winter 2026

Before fall arrives and all the good varsity jackets sell out, scroll through the styles available at Coach right now below. Customize them at home to re-create the styles worn by the W's top stars.

Shop Coach Varsity Jackets