The bomber jacket is a versatile garment that enhances men’s casual and smart-casual wardrobes.
Originating from military aviation in the early 20th century, this jacket has become popular for men seeking to add a touch of rugged charm to their outfits.
In this guide, we’ll explore several bomber jacket styles, from classic leather to innovative fabrics, and provide specific advice on how to style them best in various occasions and contexts.
The Bomber Jacket Matters, but Why?
The bomber jacket is a cornerstone of men’s casual and smart-casual attire, bridging the gap between relaxed and refined.
With roots in military aviation and subsequent adoption by various subcultures, the bomber jacket has become indispensable for the modern man as a fashion staple in casual and semi-formal settings.
Bomber Jacket Origin – From Cockpits to Catwalks
The bomber jacket’s journey from military uniform to fashion staple is a testament to its enduring appeal.
Conceived in the early 20th century for aviators, the original flight jackets were designed to keep pilots warm in unheated cockpits at high altitudes.
As aviation technology advanced, so did the jacket design.
The iconic MA-1 bomber jacket, introduced in the 1950s, featured a signature orange lining for visibility in case of plane crashes.
This design would later become a fashion statement in its own right.
The bomber jacket’s transition to civilian wear began in the 1960s and 1970s, adopted by various subcultures including mods and skinheads.
By the 1980s, the bomber had firmly established itself in mainstream fashion, further popularised by films like “Top Gun”.
Today, the bomber jacket continues to evolve, with designers reinterpreting this classic in various materials and styles, cementing its status as a timeless piece in men’s fashion.
Iconic Bomber Jackets in Movies
These cultural touchstones have contributed to the bomber jacket’s enduring popularity and status as a fashion icon, influencing designers and wearers alike.
Top Gun (1986)
Tom Cruise’s character, Maverick, sports a G-1 flight jacket, cementing the bomber jacket’s association with cool, daring pilots. The jacket features patches and insignia, adding to its authentic military appeal.
Drive (2011)
Ryan Gosling’s character wears a distinctive white satin bomber jacket with a golden scorpion embroidered on the back. This unique piece became instantly iconic, sparking a trend for embroidered bomber jackets.
The Breakfast Club (1985)
Emilio Estevez’s character Andrew Clark wears a letterman-style bomber jacket throughout the film, representing his jock status and the jacket’s association with American high school culture.
Blade Runner (1982)
Harrison Ford’s character, Rick Deckard, wears a unique bomber-style jacket that blends futuristic elements with classic design, influencing sci-fi fashion for decades.
James Dean’s Style
While not from a specific film, James Dean’s off-screen style often included bomber jackets, helping to establish them as a symbol of youthful rebellion in the 1950s.
Bomber vs Flight Jacket
| Compare | Bomber Jacket | Flight Jacket |
|---|---|---|
| Origin | Military aviation, WWII era | Military aviation, pre-WWII |
| Typical Materials | Leather, nylon, polyester | Leather, sheepskin |
| Collar Style | Ribbed or stand-up | Fur-lined or sheepskin |
| Fit | Slightly looser, modern cut | Snug, traditional cut |
| Common Features | Ribbed cuffs and waistband | Multiple pockets, throat latch |
Despite being used interchangeably, bomber and flight jackets have subtle distinctions.
Bomber jackets feature a more modern silhouette with ribbed cuffs and waistbands, whereas flight jackets boast a more traditional cut and are adorned with fur-lined collars.
Both styles, however, share the same aviation heritage and exude a similar rugged charm.
For contemporary men’s fashion, the term ‘bomber jacket’ has come to encompass a wider range of styles, including those traditionally called flight jackets.
In this guide we’ll use ‘bomber jacket’ as an umbrella term for both, focusing on how to style these versatile pieces in a modern context.
Bomber Jacket Buying Tips
| Element | Classic Jackets | Modern Jackets |
|---|---|---|
| Material | Leather, sheepskin | Nylon, polyester, suede |
| Colour | Brown, olive green, navy | Black, burgundy, pastels |
| Fit | Slightly loose, boxy | Slim, tailored |
| Details | Fur collar, multiple pockets | Minimal pockets, unique zips |
| Length | Hip-length | Cropped or elongated |
Material: Classic leather bombers in brown or olive green exude timeless appeal, while the sleek black nylon versions offer a more contemporary feel.
Colour: Bombers in a neutral shade, such as navy or charcoal, pair well with various outfits and transition seamlessly from day to evening.
Fit: The fit of your bomber jacket is crucial. A well-fitted bomber sits comfortably at the hips, with sleeves ending at the wrist. Avoid baggy styles, as they appear dated, and instead choose a silhouette that complements your body shape.
Details: Ribbed cuffs, a stand-up collar, and zippered pockets contribute to the bomber jacket’s distinctive look. For a modern twist, consider bombers with unique textures or subtle patterns that add depth to your ensemble.
Length: Classic bomber jackets are hip-length, providing a balanced silhouette. Modern interpretations may be cropped for a more contemporary look or elongated for a sleeker appearance.
Bomber Jacket’s Styling by Season
| Season | Suitability | Styling Tips |
|---|---|---|
| Autumn | Excellent | Perfect for layering over light knitwear or shirts |
| Winter | Good | Choose insulated versions; layer over heavy knitwear |
| Spring | Very Good | Opt for lighter fabrics; wear over t-shirts or light shirts |
| Summer | Limited | Choose breathable fabrics; reserve for cool evenings |
Autumn – Bomber Jacket’s Perfect Season
The jacket’s versatile nature makes it perfect for transitional weather like Autumn.
Wear a nylon bomber over a light merino wool jumper for a smart casual look, or pair a leather bomber with a flannel shirt for a rugged weekend outfit.
Winter – Stylish Protection
For winter wear, opt for bomber jackets with quilted linings or those made from heavier materials like shearling or thick leather.
Wear a shearling-lined bomber over a chunky roll-neck sweater for a subtle blend of style and protection for cold weather.
Spring – Light Layering
Lightweight bomber jackets are ideal for the mild temperatures of spring.
Pair a cotton or lightweight nylon bomber with a simple t-shirt or a light Oxford shirt for a perfect balance of warmth and breathability.
Summer – Evening Sophistication
Reserve bomber jackets for cool summer evenings to avoid overheating.
For sophisticated summer evening events, drape a silk or fine cotton bomber over the shoulders with a linen shirt and chinos.
Bomber Jacket Styling – Five Outfit Ideas
1. Urban Explorer
For a day of city exploration, pair a navy nylon bomber jacket with a grey marl crew neck t-shirt. Add slim-fit dark wash jeans and white leather low-top sneakers.
Accessorise with a minimalist stainless steel watch and classic wayfarers. This ensemble balances comfort and style for navigating busy city streets and impromptu café stops.
2. Creative Office
This outfit strikes the perfect balance between professional and creative, ideal for client meetings or after-work drinks.
Elevate your casual Friday look with a black leather bomber jacket over a light blue Oxford shirt.
For a touch of colour, pair it with charcoal wool trousers, brown suede Chelsea boots, and a burgundy knit tie.
3. Art Event in Autumn
A sophisticated ensemble that shows cultural awareness and style acumen, perfect for discussing art over champagne.
Make an impression at an art event with a burgundy suede bomber jacket layered over a black turtleneck sweater.
Pair with slim-fit beige chinos and black leather loafers, and complete the look with a silver cuff bracelet.
4. Sports Match
An outfit that provides comfort for stadium seating while maintaining a put-together appearance.
For a casual day watching sports, wear an olive green cotton bomber jacket over a white crew-neck sweatshirt.
Match with relaxed-fit light-wash jeans and comfortable brown leather sneakers. Add a vintage-inspired baseball cap for a touch of athletic charm.
5. Evening Concert
An outfit that balances style and comfort, allowing you to enjoy the music while looking effortlessly cool.
Rock a sleek look for a night of music with a black satin bomber jacket over a charcoal grey v-neck t-shirt.
Pair with black skinny jeans and dark grey suede ankle boots, and wear minimalist silver necklaces for an edgy touch.
Bomber Jacket Do’s and Don’ts
Do
Choose a bomber jacket that fits well at the shoulders and arms.
Experiment with layering – Bomber jackets work well over t-shirts, shirts, and light knitwear.
Consider the occasion when selecting your bomber jacket style and material.
Pair your bomber jacket with complementary accessories like scarves or gloves in colder weather.
Buy quality. A well-made bomber jacket can last for years and improve with age.
Explore different colours and materials to expand your style options.
Don’t
Avoid oversized bomber jackets that swamp your frame.
Don’t wear your bomber jacket in inappropriate settings, such as formal events or black-tie occasions.
Avoid pairing your bomber jacket with overly formal trousers or shoes, which can create a jarring contrast.
Don’t neglect the care instructions for your jacket, especially for leather or suede versions.
Avoid wearing a bomber jacket with baggy trousers, as it creates an unbalanced silhouette.
Don’t overload your jacket pockets; this can distort shape and clean lines.
Bomber Jacket FAQs
What’s the difference between a bomber jacket and a flight jacket?
The terms are often used interchangeably. Both originate from military aviation, but modern bomber jackets typically have a more streamlined, fashion-forward design.
Can I wear a bomber jacket to a formal event?
Bomber jackets are generally considered casual to smart casual wear. They’re not suitable for formal events or black-tie occasions.
Are bomber jackets warm enough for winter?
It depends on the material and lining. Leather or shearling-lined bomber jackets can be quite warm, while lightweight nylon versions are better suited for milder weather.
How should a bomber jacket fit?
A well-fitting bomber jacket should be snug but not tight at the shoulders, with sleeves ending at the wrists and the waistband sitting at or just below your waist.
What’s the best colour for a bomber jacket?
Classic colours like black, navy, and olive green offer versatility. The best colour depends on your style and existing wardrobe.
Bomber Jacket Customisations
Personalising your bomber jacket adds a unique touch to this classic garment, allowing you to express your individuality and style. Here are some popular customisation options:
Patches
Inspired by military traditions, adding patches to your bomber jacket creates a distinctive look. Consider vintage military patches, band logos, or custom-designed emblems that reflect your interests.
Embroidery
Embroidered designs can range from simple monograms to elaborate artwork. Popular choices include your name, meaningful dates, or intricate patterns on the back or sleeves.
Pin Badges
For a less permanent option, collect and display enamel pins or badges on your jacket’s lapels or pockets. These can be easily changed to suit your mood or outfit.
Paint
Fabric paint allows for more extensive customisation. From hand-painted designs to stencilled patterns, this method offers unlimited creative possibilities.
Distressing
For a vintage look, consider carefully distressing your jacket. This can involve strategic fraying, fading, or even creating small tears for a well-worn appearance.
Remember, customisation should enhance, not overwhelm, your bomber jacket. Choose methods that complement the jacket’s style and your personal aesthetic.
Conclusion
The bomber jacket is a testament to the enduring appeal of functional, stylish menswear. From its origins in military aviation to its status as a versatile staple in modern wardrobes, this garment has proven its worth across decades of changing fashion trends.
Throughout this guide, we’ve explored the bomber jacket’s rich history, distinguishing features, and how it compares to other casual outerwear.
We’ve also delved into its seasonal suitability, providing you with the knowledge to wear this jacket confidently throughout the year.
The styling ideas presented offer a glimpse into the bomber jacket’s versatility, showcasing how it can elevate your look across various occasions, from casual weekend outings to smart-casual office environments.
We’ve also equipped you with the knowledge to choose and purchase the right bomber jacket for you by understanding the nuances of fabric, construction, and fit that separate a good jacket from a great one.
Whether you choose a classic leather bomber or a modern nylon version, whether you wear it as is or customise it to reflect your unique dressing style, the bomber jacket offers endless possibilities for expressing your fashion sense.
Wearing a bomber jacket is about more than just staying warm but making a fashion statement, showcasing your understanding of menswear, and presenting yourself as a man of style and substance.