Bomber is a trendy jacket that almost everyone has. But once upon a time the Bomber jacket (other names - pilot, aviator) was the equipment of military pilots from the era of the First World War, then the clothing of athletes and hooligans. Thanks to the creative courage of designers, he made his rather difficult path to the top of fashion.

Today, the female “pilot” has practically no competitors. It has become a classic not only for men, but also women's wardrobe. Now neither unisex, nor sport-chic, nor military style can do without it. You can find it in the collection of any season and in literally every brand: from mass market to luxury brands.

What is a bomber jacket

A bomber jacket is one of the brightest fashionable embodiments of aesthetics and functionality at the same time. The cut is a model of a women's jacket, equipped with a convenient fastener, usually a zipper, as well as the obligatory original inserts in the form of elastic bands. There are several more distinctive elements that the modern women's bomber jacket inherited from its distant ancestors - pilot leather jackets:

1. shortened length;
2. dense cuffs on each sleeve;
3. elastic trim at the bottom and on the collar;
4. side pockets.

The main strong point is versatility. But if winter and autumn models are sometimes created with the abandonment of pretentiousness in favor of warmth and comfort, then the women's summer bomber jacket is a trendy, bright thing. Stylish jackets in trendy colors and the most current prints have been created for everyday life. And fashionable bomber jackets made of lace, transparent fabrics, and chic decor can be saved for a special occasion.

Bomber history

The history of the elegant women's jacket is phenomenal. Its ancestor is the bomber pilot jacket, which was initially made from very rough tanned leather for pilots. The hardships of their service and the First World War showed the need for mass production of this thing. Thus, 1926 became the starting point in the history of the item: the Irvin Jacket model was released in Britain, immortalizing the name of its developer Leslie Irwin. A thick leather bomber jacket with a sheepskin lining began to literally conquer the world.

The baton was picked up by American pilots who distinguished themselves with a rather creative approach. In order to somehow diversify their flight routine, navigators and bombardiers began to randomly decorate their new overalls. The main motives, naturally, were favorite characters, half-naked beauties and images of bombs - according to the number of “explosive” flights. Obviously, at this historical moment, its name was assigned to the jacket. And the amateur painting, for which a black bomber jacket served as the background, gave those design beginnings that would later become embodied by the most famous couturiers.

Transformation of a cult men's jackets The rise of the favorite item of millions of fashionistas continued with the fact that it began to be sewn from lighter materials. It was in this version that the item “went” into the American sports environment, the specificity of which is precisely the unisex trend. The comfortable fabric pilot began to be worn by both young athletes and girls from support groups.

But he didn’t get to the podium straight from the sports arena. At first, the thing took root on the street, among young people with a radical outlook. Then the 80s came with their fashion for volume. There was a real boom in the iconic jacket, in which the famous Frenchman Claude Montana played an important role. He released a collection of women's models with emphasized voluminous details.

His other fashionable compatriot did not stand aside either: it was in the 80s that the fashion crowd was completely delighted at the sight of a women's silver bomber jacket with flowers from Yves Saint Laurent himself. Thus, through the efforts of French designers, the utilitarian jacket lost its association with radical subcultures. And having adequately survived its depersonalization in the 90s, it turned into a stylish irreplaceable wardrobe item.

Materials and types

Over the last couple of fashion seasons, there has been a shift in emphasis: then quilted jackets were popular, then combined ones, when the base was fabric, and some fragments, for example, sleeves, were made of leather. Then the pictures of life were illustrated with stylish looks, where in the center there was a women's bomber jacket with a floral print or embroidery. And all this diversity of one thing continues to delight sophisticated fashionistas. And among the most current options The following options remain:

• The silk bomber jacket and its closest brother are the satin bomber jacket. The elegance of the fabric and the elegant impression of this item will help you put together a magnificent ensemble in the sport-chic style. And a silk sample, decorated with sequins or with stripes, is a strong argument in favor of the fact that fashion is also an art.
• Bomber jacket with embroidery. This “girlish” version fits almost any bottom, as long as it’s more laconic. The perfect complement is a plain T-shirt and denim. These can be boyfriends, skinny, classic, overalls, etc.
• Denim bomber jacket. Very popular among young people in both shortened and elongated versions. The love for it is contagious: even such an ultra-conservative of the French fashion school as Barbara Bui was imbued with it and created exemplary models from denim. By the way, her collections present decent suede options.
• Long bomber jacket. This is a blatant violation of tradition, but it is also the last word in fashion for this iconic jacket. Hybrid models such as a bomber-coat and a down jacket go “with a bang!”, which means sometimes it’s worth breaking stereotypes.
• Lace bomber jacket. Another fashionable deviation from the rules that will not fit into styles dominated by satin and denim models. That is, sport chic, military and rap chic of the 90s are excluded. But welcome to the women's!
• Velvet bomber jacket. Two signs of recent seasons have harmoniously reunited. And they create an excellent basis to complement their union with a fresh trend, for example, a pleated midi skirt. This is the only way to demonstrate aerobatics for retro style.
• Bomber jacket with sequins. Firstly, a must-have for party girls whose life is unthinkable without club visits. Secondly, a wonderful element of the unusual evening look. In addition, sequins are one of the brightest trends of the coming season.

What to wear with a bomber jacket

The modern interpretation of the female “pilot” touched not only the length and texture of materials, but also the stylistic techniques of combining it with other things. This can be clearly seen in the collections of fashion designers. So, Stella McCartney shows off a long bomber jacket with a silk dress and is not at all embarrassed that the edge of the hem is visible. Trussardi designers follow fashion strictly and present reptile leather options: the latest collections include a white bomber jacket, a light yellow bomber jacket and a red bomber jacket. This stylish item can be combined with anything.

In general, the peculiarity of the cut implies a combination with feminine things. The combination of a bomber jacket with an A-line skirt or a pencil model is already becoming a classic. Pink bomber jacket and options with floral print suitable for a romantic look, in combination with elegant pumps, ballet shoes, mules. The jacket fits even into business style, if, of course, you choose laconic models in restrained colors, for example, a burgundy bomber jacket.

The green bomber jacket has many faces in its manifestations, or rather shades. So, in khaki color he is a favorite street fashion, military style. The recently trendy deep emerald tone can be used to create an elegant silhouette. A neutral silver bomber jacket can easily replace your favorite jacket, and an oversized bomber jacket will add a bit of zest to your look.

It is believed that the volume of the top that the jacket gives is balanced by rough shoes. But you can deviate from this principle. It all depends on the intended image and the desired impression. Shoes are suitable for office and business style; sport chic will be supported by glamorous sneakers or sneakers; A romantic style will be provided by graceful sandals. Another rule: don’t be afraid to combine it with both conservative things and trendy items of clothing.

The wide popularity of all variations of this iconic item has its origins in the “starry” trend. Street style", whose icons are, first of all, Hollywood divas. And they really know how to wear even the simplest comfortable models with style. And combinations with casual clothes and shoes, which are demonstrated by world-class stars, can be inspired to create individual fashionable looks.

Many have probably heard about such jackets, but not everyone knows what it is - a bomber jacket. Initially they were created for pilots in the First world war, which is why they are sometimes also called aviators. However, these days they are worn not only by pilots, but also by fashionistas and fashionistas from all over the world. Bombers can be worn by absolutely everyone: men, women and even children.

A little history

These clothes, which are so popular these days, were invented by the Douglas brothers in the 30s of the last century. They had their own flying club, and they wanted to protect their clients from the wind and cold, because at that time the cockpits of airplanes were open.

Some time after they came up with the bomber jacket, they received a large order from the US Department of Defense to sew such clothing for military needs. The jacket was intended for bombers, which is why it bears that name.

By the way, back then bombers sewed emblems with various images onto their jackets, and sometimes even painted entire scenes on the back. Although for the most part the drawings were not much different, they usually depicted bombs, naked women and cartoon characters. This tradition has survived to this day; for example, various designs and emblems are often sewn onto sports bomber jackets.

Initially, the jackets were made from horse hide, but over time, as aircraft improved, the fabric was replaced with a lighter one - nylon.

In 1963, a fairly recognizable detail appeared - the orange lining. The pilots needed it in case of an unexpected emergency landing. In this case, the pilot who landed on the ground turned his jacket inside out, and thanks to the orange color, he was easier to find from the air.

At the same time, many already knew about the bomber jacket, what it was, and students also fell in love with them. Harvard students wore these jackets for the first time, and after that they became very popular.

After some time, women also began to wear these clothes, but for now they simply borrowed men's bombers.

In the 90s, designers Giorgio Armani and Helmut Lang brought such jackets to the catwalk. After them, Raf Simons began using them in his collections. From that moment on, everyone already knew what it was - a bomber jacket, this clothing began to be used everywhere, and it began to enjoy great popularity.

Bomber features

• Fastens with buttons or a zipper.
• Fairly short length.
• Elasticated collar and bottom.
• There are pockets.
• Cuffs on the sleeves.

Jacket for men

This jacket is ideal for spring, autumn, and cold summers. Today there are many different styles and colors, but khaki, black, blue and brown are still considered classic colors for men. So, for men there is also a large selection of materials; jackets can be made of nylon, silk, cashmere, vinyl, etc. Since the weather in our area is usually cool, it is better to immediately buy a bomber jacket with some kind of warm lining.

How to wear this jacket for men?

The most common way to wear a men's bomber jacket for every day is with dark jeans and boots. This set is suitable for the office, for regular shopping trips, and just for walking.

Due to the fact that such a jacket has fairly wide sleeves, you can wear an additional sweater or jumper underneath it. At the same time, your movements will not be constrained, and you will be very comfortable.

Jackets in dark shades are more practical, as they do not get dirty very much, and they can be combined with almost everything.

If you want to add brutality to your look, then choose a leather bomber jacket. Slightly frayed jeans and chunky boots with thick soles go perfectly with it.

Female jacket

The choice of such clothing for women is huge: a variety of colors from calm and pastel to bright and flashy, as well as fabric for every taste and weather. There are bomber jackets with geometric patterns and applications, there are glamorous ones with various prints (flowers, skulls, etc.), there are also plain, sports, classic “flight” and basketball jackets.

There are no special rules for women on what to wear with a bomber jacket, but it is most suitable for a casual style, but it can be worn at cocktail parties and on romantic dates. Remember that although such clothes have many advantages, however, if a girl has broad shoulders, then you should not wear them, because this will make your shoulders look even wider. And since the jacket hides your waist, think about whether it will fit you exactly.

How to wear with dresses and skirts?

The women's bomber jacket looks good with both mini and maxi skirts. The main thing for a girl is to choose the right “bottom”, and the jacket certainly won’t spoil the look. If you choose a skirt with various geometric patterns, bright prints or just a flashy color, then a bomber jacket should be chosen in a calmer shade.

Almost all bomber jackets look beautiful with knitted dresses. When choosing a top and a dress, you focus on matching the texture of the fabrics.

If you want to wear a jacket on a romantic date, then a dress made of light fabric will suit you middle length. Be sure to wear heels and add bright and eye-catching jewelry.

Remember that the men's cut of the jacket only emphasizes femininity and fragility, so you can safely combine it with a cocktail dress.

Bomber with jeans and trousers

Sports shorts, jeans or business trousers - it doesn’t matter, absolutely anything will do.

It's all very comfortable to wear and looks quite stylish. Suitable for a fashionable look:

• skinny jeans or trousers;
• sneakers or high-heeled ankle boots;
• T-shirt or T-shirt with a print;
• a beautiful women's bomber jacket to suit your taste.

There can be many such combinations. When choosing clothes that go with a bomber jacket for girls, follow the same recommendations.

What shoes are suitable?

Remember that the choice of shoes depends on what style you want to be in today:

• romantic - sandals or ballet shoes;
• business - stilettos;
• sports - sneakers and sneakers in the latest fashion;
• casual - there is complete freedom, choose what makes you comfortable and comfortable.

For children

Of course, bombers are suitable not only for adults, but also for children. These jackets are perfect for them because they are comfortable but also quite warm. Due to the fact that they usually have a tight elastic band at the bottom and around the neck, the child will not catch a cold. Also, thanks to the thick elastic band on the sleeve, it will always be clean and comfortable. When choosing a bomber jacket for girls, you don’t have to limit yourself; there are many models. First, decide on the material, decide what season you are buying clothes for, and then choose a model.

The choice of bomber jackets for boys is also great. Of course, most of all jackets classic colors: blue, black, gray and green.

Where can I buy such a jacket?

The simplest thing is to go shopping, look at the assortment and choose the one you need. However, before this, you can look at online stores, there is a much larger selection, and you can sort goods by price, size, color, etc. When choosing such a jacket for children, it is better not to skimp on the manufacturer, but to choose a good and high-quality bomber jacket from well-known brands. The price can be very varied, because it can be bought in regular mass stores, or in boutiques from famous designers.

Now you know a lot about the bomber jacket: what it is, how to wear it correctly for men, women and children. Remember that it can be combined with almost everything. However, pay special attention to the choice of shoes and the combination of jacket and clothing fabrics. The most important thing is that you feel comfortable in this jacket, that you feel comfortable and warm, because that’s what it was originally invented for. Even world stars who love to wear a bomber jacket do not always follow some fashion recommendations, but at the same time they feel confident and comfortable.

Bomber (pilot jacket, English flight jacket) – short coat with a zipper and elastic knitted inserts at the waist and cuffs. The width of the elastic at the waist can reach 20 cm.

Story

The first bombers

In 1929, brothers John and Robert Douglas opened their own small flying club in the American town of Greenwood. They organized demonstration flights and also took tourists on rides. Airplane cockpits at that time were open. To protect against wind and cold, the Douglas brothers gave their guests special leather jackets and helmets. They also sold them in the shop at the flying club.

Military bomber

In the 1930s, Robert and John received an order to produce flight jackets for the American Air Force. The first models were A-1 and A-2, which were made from horse leather and complemented by a dark brown belt, knitted cuffs and collar. They were worn by bomber pilots, which is why the jackets got the name “bomber.”.

For other pilots, warmer sheepskin models were developed - B-3 and B-6. As aviators rose in rank, they sewed squadron emblems onto their jackets or put their own designs and inscriptions on them. As a rule, a mission map was drawn on the lining of the bomber jacket.

Nylon bomber jacket

In the 1950s, with the advent of jet aircraft, it was time to improve the pilot jacket. Now the lightness of the bomber jacket has come to the fore, allowing for maximum freedom of movement. In 1955, the Douglas brothers created a military model of the MA-1, made from nylon with a bright orange lining, for a special order from the Air Force. In the event of an accident and subsequent ejection, the pilot could turn his jacket inside out and thereby signal the rescuers. At the end of 1955, after the US Air Force serially launched new supersonic combat aircraft, a certain subculture formed among aviators. Its representatives were characterized by denial of prohibitions, regular proof of their strength, and life on the verge of mortal risk.

The jacket became a symbol of anarchist ideals. A few years later, thanks to Alpha Industries, bombers appeared among European pilots. In Europe, the name “alpha jacket” was established, consonant with the name of the manufacturer. Currently, the US Air Force uses the M-2 bomber model, which differs from the MA-1 in the shape of the pockets and the presence of a turn-down collar, as well as the color of the lining, which matches the outside.

Bomber as an element of a civilian wardrobe

In the 80s, military jackets became an element of civilian wardrobe. In particular, bombers became part of the costume of representatives of some subcultures who adopted the anarchic ideals of pilots: football fans, mods, rock performers. The mass popularity of the model was also explained by the fact that celebrities loved it, for example, Clint Eastwood, who prefers leather pilots to all other types of jackets. Currently, bomber jackets imitating models of the 40s, 50s and 60s, but sewn using modern technologies, are produced by the American company Cockpit.

Bomber and literature

The black MA-1 bomber jacket appeared thanks to literature. In William Gibson's novel Pattern Recognition main character Case Pollard wore a jacket made by Bazz Rickson, a company that produces replica World War II military clothing. But in reality the black MA-1 did not exist. After the novel's release, Bazz Rickson received so many orders for this non-existent model that it was forced to release the black MA-1 Pattern Recognition bomber jacket. Bazz Rickson later launched the William Gibson Collection line, consisting of several styles of jackets and bags.

Bomber and fashion

In the 90s of the twentieth century, bomber jackets made of black nylon with an orange lining were worn by British youth. Variations on the bomber theme have been repeatedly proposed. For a long time, pilot jackets were exclusively men's wardrobe, but by the 21st century, models for women also appeared. Around the same time, bomber jackets lost their ideological meaning and became simply a fashionable wardrobe item. After a few years, the hype around bomber jackets died down.

Designers gave the jacket a new life in 2008. In 2010, bomber jackets began to be combined with things in romantic and classic styles. In the spring-summer season of that year, models made of leather in bright colors were popular. In the fall of 2011, bomber jackets began to be worn as part of a neo-grunge style outfit. In the spring of 2012, bomber jackets became a trend again. The collection featured a black and white variation of British jackets from the 90s, Dior Homme had models made from wool strips with raw edges, bomber jackets with contrasting cuffs and varsity-style buttons, bomber jackets reminiscent of classic military MA- 1, y – raver options.

The fashion for bomber jackets continued into the next season. For example, many brands have them in the autumn-winter collections of 2012-2013. Masha Tsigal suggested combining leather bomber jackets with chiffon and leather ones. In the Menswear collection, he introduced mohair bombers. Alena Akhmadullina proposed sports-style pilot jackets with metallic leather inserts.

Advantages

Comfort. The bomber jacket does not restrict movement at all, but the jacket is not too wide. The cut of the model allows you to freely spread your arms to the sides or raise them up. Thanks to the convenience of a bomber jacket, models based on classic versions of the jacket become an element of workwear for drivers, the military, security, and special forces.

Weather resistance. The classic bomber jacket is made of waterproof materials - leather, nylon, raincoat fabric. Due to this, the model protects from wind and precipitation.

Versatility. A bomber jacket can be worn for a walk outside the city, outdoor sports or a picnic, as well as for work, shopping or an evening event without a dress code. In recent years, it has become popular to combine a pilot's jacket with feminine casual and cocktail dresses.

Practicality. The bomber is made of strong, durable materials. Classic models have hidden pockets and convenient pockets on the sleeves. Currently, due to the comfort and bright color of the lining, nylon bombers are popular among skydivers and paragliders.

Varied design. Modern bombers are produced not only in the classic form. Currently, there are jackets in sports, business and other styles. Designers offer insulated models with a hood and thin bomber windbreakers. They are made from leather, cotton, raincoat fabric, nylon, wool, microfiber and even silk. Currently there are bombers various colors, as well as models with prints. The Alpha company, in addition to classic colors, produces jackets in shades of marble, gold, etc. Bombers CWU, B-3, etc. have a collar.

Bomber MA-1

The classic MA-1 bomber jacket is made from waterproof DuPont 6-6 nylon. The jacket has about 60 double seams, a durable zipper with double padding designed to protect against water and wind, a signal orange lining, and a special pocket for a lighter. The MA-1 model does not have a collar.

Combination

In the classic version, the bomber jacket is usually combined with rough leather shoes, aviator sunglasses and skinny jeans or trousers. In some seasons, designers suggest combining female models jackets with natural shades high heels, light feminine, formal skirts, etc. Due to their length, bomber jackets emphasize the hip line, so they are recommended to be worn by slender women and men.

A bomber is a short jacket with a zipper, elastic inserts, and cuffs.

The width of the elastic band sewn to the bottom of the bomber jacket is about 20 centimeters.

Bomber jackets can be found in wool, nylon, leather and many other materials.

A bomber jacket can have a collar, usually made of an elastic insert, or without it. Initially, this jacket was a purely men's wardrobe item. Over time, bombers also became available to the opposite sex, becoming unisex clothing.

What to wear with a bomber jacket?

1. Bombers can be safely worn with jeans. Sporty chic is guaranteed.
2. Bombers also look great with dresses and heels. Socialites have taken a fancy to this item of clothing, and very often wear it on special occasions. various events specifically with dresses.

History of the evolution of the bomber jacket:

The bomber jacket owes its appearance to the Douglas brothers, who opened their flying club in the 30s of the last century. The club was originally intended for tourists. In those years, airplane cabins were open, so to protect their passengers from the cold and wind, the brothers developed a special leather jacket. The jacket was sold in the flying club store.

Later, the Douglas brothers received a large order from the US Department of Defense to sew such jackets for the Air Force. Jackets began to be sewn from horse skin, she had knitted collar and cuffs. Since the jacket was primarily intended for bombers, it was nicknamed the bomber. This is where the modern bomber jacket originates.

After 20 years, the brothers again received an order for jackets. True, now jackets were required in a lighter version, since aircraft had been significantly improved during this time. It was decided to sew bomber jackets from nylon. In addition, the lining was bright orange. It served as an additional distress signal if the pilot ejected. All he had to do was turn the bomber jacket inside out.

Students also did not ignore such a comfortable and functional piece of clothing. For students, jackets were made of wool.

Harvard athletes first wore bomber jackets as sports uniform. It was from this moment that bombers began to gain popularity. However, only excellent students or athletes wore them, so the jacket was considered a sign of the elite and wealth.

After another 20 years, girls began to wear bomber jackets. They simply borrowed bomber jackets from their boyfriends and wore them around campus.

By the 1980s, anyone could wear a bomber jacket.

In the 90s, the bomber jacket was still an item of men's wardrobe, but by the 2000s, models for women also appeared. Bombers became the uniform of many subcultures that were popular at the time. Among them were skinheads, rock performers, ravers and others. Then interest in bombers faded for a while.

Fashionable bomber jackets:

Modern designers have revived the fashion for bomber jackets by including them in their new 2013 collections.

Phillip Lim decorated the classic bomber silhouette with a floral print and made the neckline more revealing.

Alexander McQueen, Dior, Victor&Rolf offer leather bomber jackets with contrasting cuffs and buttons.

Stella McCartney developed a version of a bomber jacket made of lace, silk and cashmere.

Designers Pinko They also did not refuse a lightweight version of the jacket, sewing it from mint-colored nylon, decorated with lace inserts and embroidery on the back.

Charlotte Ronson presented bomber jackets in a variety of colors: pink, green, blue, etc.