Written By: Maria Farah
This year’s Super Bowl halftime show was rich in symbolism. From Kendrick Lamar’s powerful lyrics and dynamic choreography to Samuel L. Jackson’s Uncle Sam satire, the performance was brimmed with underlying metaphores. However, a more subtle, yet impactful message was conveyed through last night’s outfits.
Photo BY: Getty Images
Kendrick opened with a snippet of an unreleased song, and the patches on the letterman jacket were the first thing we could see. The name Gloria was spelt out on the front of the jacket, a nod to his track titled “Gloria” in his latest album GNX, while his flared Celine jeans captured the essence of the Y2K.
Y2K has been back for a while, reemerging as we welcomed the new decade back in 2020. From bedazzled tracksuits to low rise jeans, the nostalgia of the 2000’s has never been more present—bringing with it letterman jackets decked out in patches and emblems.
Letterman jackets have graduated beyond varsity teams and alumni memorabilia, serving as unique statement pieces in streetwear style. According to Vouge, letterman jackets—decorated with custom appliques—have made waves in recent fashion shows, particularly in the late Virgil Abloh’s Off-White autumn/winter show at Paris Fashion Week in 2022.
Photos By: Vouge
Kendrick’s letterman jacket at the 2025 Super Bowl champions early 2000’s fashion while solidifying patches and emblems as powerful elements that convey a message without words. However, Kendrick wasn’t the only one rocking this look, as his special guests, SZA and Mustard, were also spotted wearing decorated jackets.
Mustard’s leather jacket with yellow accents featured two American flag patches in the front with his name, Mustard, and 2025 travelling up both his arms.
Photo BY: Getty Images
SZA, on the other hand, was styled in red from head to toe, with an eye catching “Crybaby” spelt on the back of her jacket. Like Kendrick, “Crybaby” references a song from SZA’s most recent album, Lana, which was also seen peeping out on the front of her jacket. SZA’s and Kendrick’s clothing this halftime show subtly communicated their brand, their music, and their style, essentially repping what defines their careers the most through custom patches and emblems.
Photo By: BornXRaised
Photo By: Getty Images
On the topic of vintage fashion, Princess Diana of Wales, known for her iconic sporty looks, wore an embroidered Philidelphia Eagles letter man jacket throughout the 90s with some hints of chenille patches.
The Super Bowls halftime fashion choices contributed to Kendrick Lamar’s hidden messages during his performance; showcasing that patches and emblems are more than mere garment decorations—and instead represent your story, your brand, your way.
