Originally known as ‘flight jackets’, the modern bomber jacket that we know and love is steeped in history. Created by the US Army in 1917 to keep WWI fighter pilots warm in what was previously an entirely open-air cockpit, the OG military-ready flight jacket comprised of thick, insulating leather and fur.
As the fighter jets evolved, so too did the flight jackets – the earliest, most recognisable iteration being the US Army Type A-1, which was introduced in 1927. Just like the modern bomber jacket, the A-1 had a knit waistband and cuffs which gave the overall silhouette a fitted and stylish yet super warm fit. The only modern difference was the introduction of a zip closure.
Later in 1949, the MA-1 was introduced, replacing fur and leather with high-quality nylon and polyester for daily, multi season use. And thus, the blueprint for the modern bomber jacket was born.
Though the bomber jacket was popularised in mainstream fashion through movie stars such as James Dean in Rebel Without a Cause (1955) and Marlon Brando in A Streetcar Named Desire (1951), that’s not to say that women weren’t rocking the military style. From famous female pilots such as Amy Johnson (pictured above) and Amelia Earhart, to actress and model Marilyn Monroe, the bomber jacket became just as much a staple in women’s fashion as it was for men.
Fast forward to the 21st century and the bomber jacket trend continues to fly high. In fact, according to Clearpay, there’s been a 34 per cent increase in sales of bomber jackets. Whether it be varsity-style, leather, denim, crochet, silk, or shearling, one thing’s for sure: this jacket style isn’t going anywhere anytime soon, especially with the likes of Rihanna, Gigi Hadid and Hailey Bieber firmly on board (sorry, not sorry).
Scroll for our round-up of the most chic and functional bomber jackets on the market right now.
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MA-1 Bomber Jacket (Heritage)
It’s the jacket that truly never goes out of style. A staple for every season and a true heritage piece, the MA-1 Bomber Jacket by Alpha Industries is the real deal. Since the MA-1 flight jacket was the first piece of military garb to cross over into everyday fashion, it seems only fitting to add this current version – which has been kept as close as possible to the classic military specifications – to your outerwear collection.
Buy now £159.24, Alpha Industries
Weekday Destiny Bomber Jacket
Made from recycled polyester with a sturdy two-zip closure, this bomber by Weekday is just like the real thing – only slightly more civilian. With rounded sleeves and a lack of knitted waistband, this silhouette is oversized and oh-so cosy. You can scoop up this style in the featured Dark Mole hue, or a lighter grey for the warmer months. Style it with some cargo trousers and combat boots for a modern Cadet Kelly vibe.
Buy now £79.00, Weekday
Acne Studios Ombreyo brand-appliqué denim jacket
In the prettiest of fuchsia pinks, this denim bomber-style jacket by Acne Studios had us at hello. With a relaxed fit and old-school flight jacket faux-fur trim, this heavyweight wonder is the unique outwear staple your wardrobe has been crying out for. The shell is made from 100 per cent non-stretch cotton, while the lining is fabricated from insulating polyester. We particularly love the brand’s signature appliqué subtly positioned just above the knitted waistband.
Buy now £330.00, Selfridges
Oversized Satin Flight Jacket
Silky smooth and suitable for any occasion, this oversized flight jacket from & Other Stories is an immediate ‘add to basket’ moment. The topstitch detailing and extra-large front patch pockets with a d-ring detail is what sets this piece apart from your standard flight jacket. It has even got concealed press buttons for easy opening and closure. Yes please.
Buy now £120.00, & Other Stores
Chloé Shearling-trimmed broderie anglaise leather bomber jacket
The designer bomber jacket of our dreams, Chloé immediately won us over with this shearling trim piece, which features a delicate broderie anglaise pattern on the pockets. Though the jacket is true to size, it is designed to fit loosely. The firm, non-stretchy brick leather is assuaged with the 100 per cent silk lining, making this jacket a wonderfully comfortable yet heavyweight wardrobe wonder.
Buy now £1662.50, Net-A-Porter
Axel Arigato Ivy Varsity Jacket
Moving into the varsity-style realm of bomber jackets, this letterman dream will be the envy of all the chads and brads on campus. With contrast panelling, striped ribbed trims and a terry ‘A’ patch on the front breast and back, the dark green, black and ivory hues are reminiscent of American college football games – if only they were high fashion events.
Buy now £335.00, Axel Arigato
Water-Repellent Oversize Bomber Jacket
Olive green for the A-Team. This Zara bomber jacket is water-repellent, oversized and designed for a relaxed vibe. The contrast bright orange lining is actually very true to one of the earlier, original iterations of the military flight jacket. The design was implemented in the MA-1 model so that pilots could reverse their protective outerwear and be easily spotted in the case of a crash or emergency landing. If you like a little bit of extra attention without being extreme, this contrast piece is for you.
Buy now £59.95, Zara
THE GREAT. The Baseball brushed-felt bomber jacket
Though this is technically considered a baseball-style bomber jacket, we can’t help but think of the chic cheerleader uniforms of North American colleges. The more feminine answer to the varsity letterman jacket and reminiscent of the Cheerios from hit show Glee, this brushed-felt piece is a vintage-inspired must-have. The oversized collar and striped cuffs are statement features that don’t overwhelm the piece, while the satin lining ensures easy and comfortable layering.
Buy now £490.00, Net-A-Porter
Ganni + Net Sustain recycled twill jacket
Featuring Ganni’s signature oversized statement collar, this sustainable bomber jacket is made from recycled twill. A perfect option for both the eco and fashion conscious, we love the idea of styling this piece with a black mini dress and some knee-high boots. Size-up for a boxier look or stay true to size for a slightly more fitted bomber jacket silhouette.
Buy now £345.00, Net-A-Porter
Patchwork Teddy Spliced Bomber Jacket
For a more unique approach to the outwear trend, go crochet crazy for this patchwork teddy bear bomber jacket by Nasty Gal. Flirt with the style of the 70s with the warm toned crochet inspired borg patterns and stay ultra-warm and cosy with the mega soft fleece lining. Groovy baby!
Buy now £14.00, Nasty Gal
