There's an undeniable allure to vintage bomber jackets, a blend of coolness and legend. Deeply rooted in military history, they've grown to become a significant symbol in the fashion sphere.
Yet their appeal goes beyond mere style. Vintage bomber jackets have a certain magnetism, attracting admirers with their sophisticated ruggedness. They seamlessly merge the charm of yesteryears with the flair of today, creating a distinct appeal.
Heading for the Skies: The Vintage Bomber Jacket Guide
The Timeless Charms of a Vintage Bomber Jacket
Vintage bomber jackets are undoubtedly a wardrobe staple. With roots in military history, they have surged in popularity, turning heads in both street style and high fashion. They exude a certain nostalgia while still managing to be incredibly on-trend. They bring together a casual ease with a sense of refinement that makes them both versatile and universally appealing.
Here's the catch though: Not all vintage bomber jackets are created equal. There are different types, each with its unique attributes. From the classic military-style jackets to the more fashion-forward versions, there's a lot to consider when you're on the lookout for the perfect bomber.
The Love for Vintage: Why Go Old School?
The word “vintage” often evokes feelings of nostalgia, but there's more to it than just sentimentality:
- Quality: Vintage garments, like bomber jackets, were crafted with a dedication to quality that's challenging to replicate today.
- Character: The patina, wear, and sometimes even the small imperfections of vintage jackets add to their character and charm.
- Uniqueness: When you sport a vintage bomber jacket, it's unlikely you'll run into someone else wearing the same piece.
Spotting the Perfect Style
The Military Bomber: The military bomber jacket is the one that started it all. Inspired by the jackets worn by flight crews in WWII, this style usually features a durable exterior, often made of leather or nylon, and a plush lined interior to keep pilots warm at high altitudes. Notable features include front zip fastening, ribbed cuffs and hem, and sometimes, a shearling collar.
The MA-1 Bomber: Following the traditional military design, the MA-1 bomber, introduced in the 1950s, is a more streamlined version. This style, often seen in sage green or black, typically has a lightweight nylon construction and bright orange lining (originally intended for visibility in case of a crash).
The B-15 Bomber: A predecessor to the MA-1, the B-15 bomber, was developed during the late 1940s. Its characteristic features include a fur-lined collar, often made of mouton, and a cotton sateen outer shell.
The Fashion Bomber: These are the more recent versions, a modern and more fashionable take on the classic design. The materials range from satin and velvet to more exotic ones like metallic and sequinned fabrics. These jackets can come in an array of colours, prints, and embellishments.
Donning the Jacket: Style Tips
Bomber jackets offer a vast array of styling options:
- Casual Cool: Pair your bomber with a white tee, slim-fit jeans, and trainers for a simple yet cool everyday look.
- Edgy Elegance: Combine a leather bomber with black skinny jeans, a silk blouse, and ankle boots for a touch of rebellious glamour.
- Street Style Savvy: For an urban-chic look, try a colourful or patterned bomber with high-waisted trousers and chunky platform sneakers.
Understanding Fit and Sizing
When it comes to bomber jackets, fit is crucial. Here are some factors to consider:
- Length: The jacket should hit at the waist. Anything longer might make the jacket appear oversized, while shorter can make it look cropped.
- Shoulders: The shoulder seams should line up with where your shoulder ends. If they hang over, the jacket is too big.
- Sleeves: The sleeves should end at your wrist. A bit longer is acceptable if it has elasticated cuffs that can create a good bunching effect.
Picking the Right Material
The type of material can greatly impact the look, feel, and durability of your vintage bomber jacket. Some common options include:
- Leather: Authentic, rugged, and warm, leather is the classic choice for bomber jackets.
- Nylon: Lightweight and water-resistant, nylon bombers are great for a casual, everyday look.
- Satin: For a more stylish and luxe appearance, satin is a great choice. It has a subtle sheen that can elevate your outfit.
- Wool: Wool bombers are perfect for colder months due to their great insulation properties.