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1950s/1960s | Wight’s Sporting Goods Red Varsity Letterman Cardigan – Modern Men’s M/L, 40/42 Chest

Vintage Wight’s Sporting Goods red varsity letterman cardigan from Bangor, Maine, featuring a large chenille “B” patch, cream double sleeve stripes, front button closure, V-neckline, ribbed cuffs and hem, and front patch pockets. Marked size not visible; best fits modern men’s M/L, approx 40/42 chest, depending on desired fit. Shown on Dean, 6’2”, 170 lb, men’s Medium shirt, 40L slim-fit suit, 40” chest, 36” sleeve, 31/32” waist.

$198.00

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Description

A true vintage red varsity letterman cardigan from Wight’s Sporting Goods of Bangor, Maine, with the kind of heavy collegiate presence that makes vintage athletic knitwear so good. The cardigan features a deep red knit body, cream double stripes at the upper sleeves, a large chenille “B” patch at the front, and a classic V-neck button-front shape.

The silhouette is substantial but wearable, with front patch pockets, ribbed cuffs, ribbed hem, and large tonal red buttons. The knit appears to be wool or a wool-blend, though no fiber tag is visible in the photos, so fabric is listed as estimated.

Wight’s Sporting Goods was a local Bangor, Maine sporting goods label, and pieces like this sit in that great American varsity lane: athletic, collegiate, preppy, and very graphic without feeling costume-y.

The marked size is not recorded. Based on Dean’s measurements and the visible fit, this best fits modern men’s M/L, approximately 40/42 chest, depending on desired fit. On Dean, it fits cleanly through the chest and shoulders with comfortable ease and a classic vintage cardigan shape.

Shown on Dean layered over a collared shirt with trousers. Listing is for the cardigan only.

Details

Brand: Wight’s Sporting Goods
Label Location: Bangor, Maine
Era: Estimated 1950s/1960s
Marked Size: No visible size tag
Estimated Modern Size: Men’s M/L, approx 40/42 chest
Size Basis: Dean’s measurements, visible model fit, vintage varsity cardigan construction, and mid-century athletic knitwear sizing context
Model: Dean
Model Measurements: 6’2”, 170 lb, 15.5” neck, men’s Medium shirt, 36” sleeve, 40” chest, 40L slim-fit suit, 31/32” waist, 33” inseam, size 12 shoe
Model Fit Reference: Fits Dean cleanly through the shoulders and chest with comfortable ease
Color: Deep red / burgundy red with cream sleeve stripes
Material: Appears to be wool or wool-blend knit; fiber tag not visible
Neckline: V-neck
Closure: Front button closure
Sleeves: Long sleeves with cream double varsity stripes
Pockets: Two front patch pockets
Hem / Cuffs: Ribbed cuffs and hem
PatchLong sleeves with cream double varsity stripes**
Pockets: **Two Detail: Large chenille “B” varsity patch
Condition: Good vintage condition

Fit Notes

No marked size is visible. Estimated modern fit is men’s M/L, approximately 40/42 chest.

Shown on Dean, who is 6’2”, 170 lb, wears a men’s Medium shirt, 40L slim-fit suit, has a 40” chest, 36” sleeve, and 31/32” waist. On Dean, the cardigan fits cleanly through the chest and shoulders with comfortable ease. Best for a modern men’s Medium/Large or a 40/42 chest depending on preferred fit and layering.

The knit has natural give, but the best fit should still be based on chest, shoulder comfort, and sleeve length.

Condition

Good vintage condition with wear consistent with age. The cardigan presents strongly overall with rich color, intact varsity striping, and a bold chenille “B” patch. Light pilling, surface wear, minor knit irregularities, and age-related wear may be present, especially at the ribbing, pocket edges, buttonholes, and patch area. Buttons appear period-appropriate but may not be perfectly matched. No major holes or structural flaws are visible in the photos. Please review photos carefully.

Styling Notes

A standout varsity knit that works with pleated trousers, denim, fatigues, loafers, boots, or sneakers. Style it over a collared shirt for a collegiate 1950s/1960s look, with a tee and jeans for casual prep, or layered under a wool coat for a more polished vintage menswear outfit. The red tone pairs well with gray, cream, khaki, denim blue, navy, brown, black, and olive.

Shown with

Styled with a collared shirt, trousers, and jewelry for shoot styling. Listing is for the cardigan only unless otherwise stated.

Curation Note

Selected for its bold red varsity knit, large chenille letter patch, cream sleeve stripes, local Maine sporting goods label, and classic mid-century collegiate silhouette. This is a strong graphic vintage knit with real presence.

Authenticity Note

Interior label reads Wight’s Sporting Goods, Bangor, Maine. Era is estimated based on label design, chenille varsity patch, knit construction, button-front cardigan shape, sleeve striping, and mid-century athletic/collegiate styling.

Styling

Additional information

Era

Material

Wool

Reviews

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Size Chart

Vintage sizing varies greatly by brand, country, garment type, and time period. The marked vintage size may not reflect today’s sizing standards. Whenever possible, we provide both the original marked size and our estimated modern US size equivalent. This estimate is based on the item’s era, construction, fabric behavior, relevant size references, and how the piece fits on the model shown. We do not clip, pin, or artificially alter garments when photographing them. The model’s size, measurements, and visible fit are the best guides for understanding modern fit. Please review all photos, fit notes, and product details before purchasing.

WHAT PEOPLE ARE SAYING

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Christine C.
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Upon having dinner in DTLA a friend and I stumbled upon QUIRK, what a treasure of a vintage store. A hidden gem!!! An insider's secret.. but not for long. Loved Melynda's eye for well curated vintage clothing and accessories. Working as a stylist in Films and Editorial, Melynda is defintely on point. Instantly we felt right at home in her inviting shop. From designer to hard to find vintage, its all there. What a happy find!!!
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Hunter P.
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Ten out of five stars for Melynda and her all volunteer Quirk crew for creating the People's Free Boutique in an unused corner space in DTLA, providing much needed, intentional, and high quality clothing and supplies for those of us who lost everything in LA's January fires. My family and I came to Quirk and were welcomed with care and respect, mirroring the quality and thoughtfulness of the clothing offered, and being given the dignity of choice to dress ourselves in clothing that we prefer. The Quirk crew were professional and kind, dealing with a gradually melting down child and frazzled adults, recognizing and validating the collective trauma of their guests, and providing a space of hope, solace, and care out of the goodness of their hearts. I was able to restock much of my professional and casual wardrobe, grab some high quality toiletries, kids clothing, and an epic penny board for my kid. I cannot recommend a visit to the People's Free Boutique and Melynda's Quirk store on 9th enough!
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Dave
Found an absolute gem of a Hawaiian shirt for my rehearsal dinner. Just head upstairs, go back in time, and enjoy yourself. Love this place and Melynda!!
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Maddy H.
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I love this store and I love Melynda she helped me style my two photoshoots and had the most awesome ideas and had exactly what I needed to absolutely crush the photoshoot
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Katie Caro
I volunteered at Quirk all afternoon today, and there is so much love and support alive in that space. They are overwhelmed with so many incredible donations and every single thing is being sorted and placed directly into the free shop where fire victims can come shop and get what they need. All items are the same quality you would find in a thrift store like Buffalo Exchange. There were volunteers helping people find clothing items that fit and served their needs while they’re grappling with the loss of their homes and belongings. There are so many ways fire victims need support and this is one of them! Thank you Quirk and the other amazing organization and businesses stepping up to help our community!
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Jonathan L.
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Had a wonderful time visiting this shop, lots of cool stuff and just a great friendly vibe. Found a great sweater that is an instant favorite in my wardrobe. A nice, fun place to stop by.
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Patricia Guerrera
Love what Melynda with Quirk has done to help LA fire victims! She is still continuing to this day to help others in need. By creating a free shopping boutique filled with stylish clothing and accessories! She is amazing! Thank you for everything your are doing to help your community!! You Rock Girl!!! Blessing to you!
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alex ap
Quirk is a great place to rent or buy unique clothing. Melynda has curated such a great variety of items. I rented a gorgeous gown for a work event and bought multiple things including a vintage Italian suit that I get complimented on all the time. It is a wonder place to discover and elevate your personal style.
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Joanna R.
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I had the pleasure of stumbling upon Quirk fairly recently and I am most certainly delighted I found this little gem! Located on a busy downtown street, its colorful, unique vintage items are arranged and merchandised well! For a small space, a diverse range of eclectic items will most certainly entice you! Trust me, ya won't leave without buying a little keeper! I love the Seven 4 all Mankind Tight pencil skirt I found and I have some items on hold I can't wait to get! The Owner/Stylist, Melynda is an absolute doll, and a pleasure to chat with as you browse the items, If you are a vintage fanatic or Fashionista, check this place out! Tiny but lots of little treasures that are reasonably priced!
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Alex A.
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I worked with Melynda on a professional photoshoot for my company and ever since then I have been going to her store. Such a great way to change up my style and find new unique items. I am a proud owner of a vintage Italian suit and have even rented a gown for a special event. Always looking for her insight when shopping there.
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Debby Zhou
Great vintage shop in Downtown! With all the new vintage stores popping up around LA these days, Quirk really stands out with having unique, high quality items that are personally curated by the owner, Melynda, who is also a professional stylist and costume designer. Most vintage shops these days are just filled with XXL 80s/90s shirts, and overpriced jeans. Quirk has one-of-a-kind items that have made me a return customer. Most recent purchases were a 1970s YSL handbag and kimono jacket that always get me compliments when I wear them out.
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Raine Revere
An absolute gem of a boutique, with a constant stream of unique vintage pieces! I was able to get the perfect dress, pumps, handbag, and hat for a formal tea at very short notice. The store is easy to access in the second floor of a fashion design building. The owner is a talented costume designer with a wealth of experience from film and more. Whether you go in with a decade-specific goal in mind, or are just looking for a special treasure, you will surely find something magical!!!
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michelle oliva
The shop is so cute! and the customer service is top tier. I love that the designs of clothing unique and priced very well.
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Darby Woods
Melinda who started and runs Quirk the people free boutique is so amazing upbeat and selfless to continue to help all of us that lost our homes. Quirk has been a loving space for me to get help to start over again and a big part of my healing journey I have visited a couple of times and found wonderful clothes to help me get back to work and visit my son at college. It is organized, clean and has great donations. I am forever grateful and count Melinda as a new friend. I also met many other fire victims and ran into old friends. Had been a wonderful place for me as I begin my healing journey. 5 stars plus another 5 stars.
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Kenneth Lester
I finally walked in after walking by for years when I heard they were in need for volunteers for their donation drive. I'm ashamed I haven't found this store before. The owner is fantastic, she hopped out of a hospital bed and straight to setting up this push to help people. The store, as it's known, on the fourth floor feels like you are thriving with some of the most upbeat staff to aid you find everything you need for woman's clothing, toiletries, and undergarments. On the second is where you can find an almost equal amount of men's, rare to have this ratio in any department store. Kids all the way down to infants, with diapers, and toys. Here you can see volunteers going from room to room sorting through, sizing, and cleaning up donations to stock both floors. Snacks, water, non-perishable food, and a welcome environment has made this a far distinction from digging through a pile of T-shirts on a folding table. My time volunteering here has been exhausting in the best way, the tiredness that comes with knowing you've done good, that your work and presence are valued. I'll continue to be here everyday I can until Melynda gets tired of me saying, "Happy ___day!" We're still here!

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