Originally an essential piece of military life, the bomber jacket made the cross into civilian life and became popular during the late 60s. It maintained its popularity all the way into the early 90s and is now making a huge fashion comeback, from Hollywood boulevards to high-profile fashion stores.
Back in the day, bomber jackets were predominantly worn by English punks and skinheads, usually with cuffed skinny jeans, tucked in tees and Dr. Martens. But if you look at today’s trends, bomber jacket seems to fit almost any occasion and can be matched with slacks for a more formal style. Even women are turning to bomber jackets and pairing them with dresses and skirts for a trendy everyday look.
Here’s how you can make this trendy piece work for any occasion.
Types of Bomber Jackets
Bomber jackets come in a variety of styles; from heavy-duty leather to more lighter versions made out of nylon or denim. Look at any popular retailer and you’ll see a wide array of styles, for example, the collection of bombers at All Saints range from black leather bombers to reversibles, so there really is something for everyone. Let’s take a closer look into some of the most popular types of bomber jackets:
Nylon Bomber Jacket
The nylon or polyester bomber jacket is the most common type you can find. The best part about them is that they can be worn during warmer months of the year as well as during cold winters.
The nylon fabric makes it easy to dress in layers’ underneath it, which means you can stay warm. It’s also waterproof and weather resistant so even if you forget your umbrella, chances are you will stay dry under your jacket.
Nylon bomber jackets come in variety of colours and you can even find nylon bomber jackets with different prints, giving you more options for a unique look.
When it comes to caring for your nylon bomber, they’re very easy to clean. A cold wash and mild detergent will ensure your jacket stays clean without damaging it. Once you wash it, air dry it to keep the form.
Leather and Suede Bomber Jackets
If you’re looking for a bomber jacket that will keep you warm during autumn and early winter, consider buying a leather bomber jacket. It’s significantly thicker than it’s nylon counterpart and more durable as well. It’s also waterproof so rain and snow won’t ruin it.
When it comes to suede bomber jackets, they are similar to leather ones – more durable and thicker. However, they also require more maintenance as they aren’t waterproof or weather resistant. But for those cold and sunny winter days, a suede bomber jacket is perfect for keeping you warm while looking stylish.
Leather and suede bombers require slightly more care than nylon ones. For best results, use a damp cloth and a mild soap and pat dry it with a towel before letting it air-dry.
Wool Bomber Jacket
For those extra cold winter months, the wool bomber jacket is the way to go. Because it’s made out of wool, it will keep you nice and warm with its thick fabric. It’s also water resistant and comes in variety of different textures and colours, so you can create a trendy look whether you’re hanging out with your friends or going to a more formal event.
When it comes to wool bombers, you’ll want to hand wash them in cold water and use a mild detergent. Rinse it under clean and cold water, then wring it out and let it air dry.
How to Wear Your Bomber Jacket in Any Occasion
Believe it or not, bomber jackets are extremely versatile and can be made to look good no matter what the occasion.
If the opportunity calls for a more casual look, pair your jacket with a pair of jeans. Distressed or ripped jeans work well in this combination, especially if you’re also wearing a solid colour t-shirt. During winter, throw in a plain sweatshirt for an extra layer and added warmth.
Keep in mind that a pair of skinny jeans will look better with a bomber jacket. Since the jacket is already slightly oversized, you don’t want to overdo it with a pair of baggy jeans on top.
Going to a fancy restaurant? Start with slim fitting trousers or denim jeans and a formal shirt. Then throw on your bomber jacket to complete the look. Stick to neutral colours or a monochrome colour combination to put your bomber jacket in the centre of attention.
Stylish sporty look is always popular and a bomber jacket lends itself well to this style as well. Pair your bomber jacket with a long tee or a polo shirt along with sweatpants for a sporty look. Add in a hoodie when the temperatures start dropping and you’ll be ready even in colder seasons.
Leather bombers are a perfect choice when you want to go for a more modern look and feel and they are best combined with tennis shoes, ripped jeans, and a simple, worn t-shirt. If you want to give a throwback to its origins, consider tucking your shirt inside your jeans and find a pair of Doc Martens boots. Make sure the jeans are cuffed and you’ll successfully pull off the vintage look.
If your bomber jacket of choice is a printed one, try to keep it as simple as possible. Plain jeans or trousers with a clean-line shirt will work wonders for this look and bring out the stylish print of your bomber.
What to Consider Before Buying a Bomber Jacket
As you can see, bomber jackets can be made to look good no matter the occasion. If you’re considering buying one for yourself, here are a few things to keep in mind.
Fit – this is one of the most important aspects for any piece of clothing, bomber jackets included. Your bomber should fit snuggly on your shoulders and be slim on the sleeves and the rest of the body. Avoid buying a jacket that’s too tight as you won’t be able to layer it during the colder months.
The seams should fall on the edge of your shoulders and you should be able to lift your arms without feeling like you’re about to rip it. If the seam isn’t on the edge of your shoulders, that means the jacket is either too small or too big for you. Sleeves should be comfortable enough to allow you to wear extra layers without preventing you from closing your jacket and looking all puffed up. Look for a jacket whose sleeves are slightly wider in the biceps area and slim down towards your wrist.
Finally, the best way to see if the bomber will fit you perfectly is to try it on, both zipped and unzipped and see how much excess material you have left on either side of your waist and under the arms. Anything more than a couple of inches means the jacket is too bulky and won’t look good. The idea is for your bomber jacket to fit the natural form of your body so choose a jacket that you can zip up without any problems and without stretching the fabric.
The last tip when it comes to the fit is to ensure that the ribbed hem of the jacket fits around your body without being too tight or too loose. Avoid stretching it because it may come loose over time.
Overall, your chosen bomber jacket should rest comfortably above the waistband of your trousers and be slightly cropped. This will give you that nice look that accentuates your shoulders and makes you appear taller.
Fabric – Choose a leather or a wool jacket if you want something that can be worn during the autumn and winter. For warmer months of the year, consider buying a bomber that’s made out of polyester or suede, or even silk. Nylon or suede can also be worn during the colder months if you choose a slightly larger size and dress in layers.
Colour – Bombers come in a variety of colours and prints and they look best when styled with monochrome or neutral colours. This makes it easy to make your bomber jacket the centre of attention and to incorporate it with the rest of what you already have in your closet.
Final Thoughts
With all the different colours and fabrics, the bomber jacket is truly a versatile piece of clothing that’s coming back in style. You can create endless combinations, whether you’re getting ready to go to a game, spend the night in a club, or have dinner in a high-end restaurant.
Choose a suede or leather jacket for more formal occasions, using a black, beige or brown bomber jacket paired with a white or dark blue shirt, slacks, and formal shoes.
If you want an edgier look, consider a bomber jacket with a print and keep the rest of your outfit plain and simple.
No matter which option you choose or the occasion you’re dressing up for, the key to pulling off a successful bomber jacket style is to keep it neutral and layer it for added depth.
