What is a bomber jacket?

The Bomber Jacket: A Timeless Fashion Staple That Just Keeps on Going

Fashion trends may come and go but one thing is for sure, some wardrobe essentials never go out of style. And then there’s the bomber jacket – that one garment that’s the ultimate symbol of laid-back cool. Comfortable, versatile and effortlessly stylish, it’s no wonder the bomber has become a wardrobe must-have for both men and women. Whether you’re after a relaxed everyday look or something a bit more polished, the bomber jacket is a great bet – it’s like a blank canvas just waiting for you to dress it up or down to suit your mood.

So what makes this jacket such a popular choice, and why has it stuck around all these years? Let’s take a closer look at its history, defining features, and go through a few styles, materials and some great ways to wear it like a pro.

The Bomber Jacket: A Brief History

The bomber jacket has its roots – as you might expect – in military aviation, but the story begins with a bit more of a hiccup during World War I. Back then pilots had to fly in open cockpits which made for very cold riding, so what they really needed was a jacket that offered up some serious warmth & yet still let them move around without any restrictions. Cue the military – they stepped in and designed these thick, insulated jackets that were brilliant at keeping the chill off while still being super comfy. Throughout the years the bomber jacket has gradually moved from purely functional military gear to full on fashion legend. Celebrities, musicians, athletes & top designers all fell in love with it & in turn helped make it 1 of the most easily recognizable jackets in modern fashion.

What sets the Bomber Jacket apart?

A bomber jacket is pretty easy to spot – thanks to its instantly recognizable design. Sure, modern versions come in loads of different styles, but most classic bomber jackets share a few pretty key features.

These include:

• a zip all the way up the front
• a collar that’s ribbed for extra grip
• ribbed cuffs to keep the cold out
• an elastic waistband for a snug fit
• a bit of extra room in the body – comfy & relaxed
• side pockets usually with a snap or zip on them

Bomber Jackets – A Style to Suit Every Taste

You’ll find today’s bomber jackets come in a whole load of materials and designs, making it pretty easy to track one down that suits your own personal style – even if you’re not a huge fan of traditional bomber jacket looks.

Leather Bomber Jackets

To my mind, leather bomber jackets are probably the most iconic of the bunch. It’s a style that pairs classic military heritage with a real air of sophistication that never goes out of fashion. A genuine leather jacket just gets better with age – and the slight scuff and wear it develops over time adds a certain je ne sais quoi that makes each one unique.

Nylon Bomber Jackets

The nylon bomber jacket is a modern take on the classic military flight jackets – the originals were pretty clever, but were they as light and as breezy as these ones? I don’t think so! They’re also totally wind-resistant as well which is great for everyday wear. Perfect for those lovely spring days, autumn afternoons and cool summer evenings when you want to throw on a jacket that doesn’t get in the way.

Suede Bomber Jackets

Now suede bomber jackets are a bit more refined and a bit dressier – but without losing that slouchy silhouette that makes a bomber jacket so great. They’ve got a real smooth feel to them that makes them a cut above some of the more casual bomber jacket looks, and they’ll still look pretty cool even when you’re dressed up rather than down.

Cotton Bomber Jacket

Cotton bombers are a great choice for when the weather’s not too hot and not too cold – they’re super breathable and lightweight. You can easily wear them every day, and they go with just about anything in a casual outfit.

Wool Bomber Jacket

Wool bomber jackets are perfect for colder weather, because they give you a bit of extra warmth without looking too wintery. They’re ideal for layering up on colder days without having to sacrifice your style.

Why Bomber Jackets Are So Popular

It’s not just their looks that have made bomber jackets so popular – it’s also because they are just so practical.

Versatility

One reason people love bomber jackets is how easily they can be dressed up or down. They’re super versatile.

You can wear one with:

• Jeans and a pair of sneakers and you’ve got a casual day out covered
• Chinos and a pair of loafers and you’ve got a smart-casual appearance sorted
• Boots and a sweater if it’s getting chilly, and you’ll still be looking good
• Just a simple T-shirt for a relaxed, everyday look
• Bomber jackets are probably the easiest jacket to switch up and match to different outfits.

Comfort

Unlike some of those stiff blazers or heavy coats, bomber jackets are designed with your comfort in mind. The relaxed fit gives you loads of freedom to move around while still keeping you looking neat and tidy. Whether you’re commuting, traveling or just spending the day outdoors, a bomber jacket is always a good choice.

Timeless Appeal

Even as fashion trends come and go, bomber jackets continue to be popular. The classic design has just evolved a bit over the years, but it still keeps all the things that made them great in the first place.

Choosing the Right Bomber Jacket

When it’s time to go shopping for a bomber jacket, there are a few things to keep in mind.

Material

Think about what kind of lifestyle you’ve got and what the weather’s like where you live when choosing the material.

• Leather’s a good choice if you want something that’ll last and still look great in years to come
• Nylon’s lightweight and great for everyday wear
• Cotton’s super comfortable
• Wool’s great for keeping warm in the colder months
• Suede gives that premium finish

Fit

A bomber jacket needs to fit comfortably around your shoulders, but also give you enough room to layer underneath. The waistband should be sitting snugly around your waist, but not too tight. Try to avoid jackets that are too big unless you’re going for a street wear look.

Color

Sticking with neutral colors is probably your best bet, as they go with most anything in your wardrobe and still keep you looking fashion-forward. Some of the most popular colors are:

• Black
• Brown
• Olive green
• Navy blue
• Grey
• Tan

Caring for That Bomber Jacket of Yours

Taking care of your bomber jacket is actually pretty easy, and it’ll pay off in the long run by making it last longer.

• Hang it up on a sturdy hanger – that way it keeps its shape, so to speak.
• Check the care label and clean it as directed. Don’t go pushing the boundaries on this one.
• If your jacket has leather, condition it every now and then to keep it from drying out and cracking. Suede and leather both get a bit fussy in the sun and rain, so avoid leaving them out in the elements for too long if you can help it.
• When you need to get rid of a stain on the suede, use a soft suede brush to gently coax it out. Don’t scrub too hard.
• If your jacket is made of nylon or cotton, you can usually just give it a quick spot clean when it gets grubby.
• Try to keep your bomber out of the direct sunlight and heavy rain – especially if it’s suede or leather. It won’t be happy about being out in the elements for too long.

Look after your bomber jacket a bit and it’ll look the part for years to come.

Final Thoughts

That bomber jacket of yours is more than just some outerwear – it’s a fashion icon with a real history and a timeless quality to it. Originally dreamed up for military pilots, it’s pretty much the ultimate style staple these days. It’s just so darn practical and comfortable – and it looks great too. Which is why you’re likely to love it just as much when you’re 50 as you do when you’re 20.

Leather, nylon and suede – they’re all great options, and each one has its own unique vibe. Plus, the bomber jacket is one of those things that works just as well for smart clothes as it does for casual. Whether it’s freezing cold or baking hot outside, your bomber jacket will be right there with you. Easy to style, comfy to wear and built to last, it’s one of those wardrobe investments that won’t go out of fashion anytime soon.

Need a jacket that’s both practical and stylish? Then a bomber jacket is probably the way to go.