Bombs away: The best bomber jackets for men
Hitting the sweet spot between smart and casual, the bomber jacket has become a modern-day essential
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Versatile, flattering and timelessly stylish, bomber jackets are a sartorial staple in the wardrobe of any well-dressed man (or woman). Originally designed for American fighter pilots during the Second World War, like the tried and tested trench coat, the bomber jacket has transcended its beginnings as military utilitarian wear to become an icon of contemporary style. Later adopted by skinheads and punks in the 1960s and 70s, by the late 90s, the bomber had become a symbol of the anti-fashion movement, and as such, high fashion designers, including Rick Owens and Raf Simons, began to send their own bomber jackets down the runways.
Now a firm favourite of the street style set, with fans including Kanye West and David Beckham, the bomber jacket is the ideal trans-seasonal piece to level up your classic jeans-and-a-white-T-shirt look. To best integrate your new bomber jacket into your existing wardrobe, you’re better off plumping for neutral shades – black, brown, navy blue, even forest green and khaki – that won’t clash, and will make styling your look that much easier. Alternatively, if you’re looking to make a statement a la Ryan Gosling in Drive, disregard that advice entirely and go for bright colours (white and metallic shades work equally well) with contrasting embroidery or appliquéed motifs.
So, whether you’re keeping things toned down or going balls-to-the-wall with your style, these are the best bomber jackets to buy right now.
Acne Studios bomber jacket
Crafted from wool, this relaxed bomber jacket by Acne Studios is perfectly pared-back. With a ribbed hem and ribbed cuffs, the mid-length jacket features a discrete snap opening and a leather puller. This is the perfect jacket for easy layering over every outfit.
AlphaTauri suede leather bomber jacket
Not satisfied with only producing state-of-the-art F1 cars for Pierre Gasly and Yuki Tsunoda, AlphaTauri has since launched a standalone fashion brand combining innovative textile technology with directional design and top-tier fabrics for a seamlessly suave aesthetic. Crafted from goat leather and featuring a detachable teddy collar, monogram inner lining and silver metal hardware, this sleek suede bomber jacket has been tailored for a streamlined silhouette – much like AlphaTauri’s racecars.
Ambush long-sleeve bomber jacket
Made to steal the show no matter where you are, this Ambush bomber jacket is crafted in a vibrant aqua hue. Complete with matte panels, zipped pockets, and relaxed drop shoulders, the lively jacket will work best paired with a monochrome outfit.
Amiri varsity bomber jacket
Rendered in chocolaty brown, Ambush’s varsity jacket is a perfect throwback to uni days. Made from a textured wool blend, it features leather panels on the shoulders with ribbed ribbons on the hem and cuffs. Supplement the jacket’s sporty jock vibe with some baggy jeans and chunky trainers.
Burberry leather bomber jacket
Burberry chose supple lambskin to craft its luxe take on the classic bomber jacket. Rendered in all black, with embossed logo detailing at the chest, and side jet pockets, this suave jacket shows that, sometimes, less really is more.
Givenchy varsity bomber jacket
If you’re looking to make a style statement, Givenchy’s varsity-inspired bomber jacket is sure to do the trick – the French fashion house has certainly not held back on its eye-catching design. Crafted in Italy from a warm wool blend it features lambskin trim, monogram detailing across the back and contrasting printed sleeves and embroidery.
John Smedley baseball collar bomber jacket
Lightweight and luxuriously soft, this slim-fitting bomber jacket from heritage knitwear brand John Smedley is crafted from 100 per cent Merino wool. Elegant in its simplicity, wear it with jeans and your best white trainers for a laidback look, or with a rollneck, chinos and a pair of Chelsea boots for seriously sharp style.
Parajumpers hooded bomber jacket
Offering supreme protection from the elements, Parajumpers’ down-filled bomber jacket is guaranteed to see you through winter. Cut from water repellent and windproof shell, with a drawstring hood to keep surprise showers at bay and the brand’s signature hardware clasp closure, the Gobi bomber jacket is the epitome of fashion-meets-function.
Thom Browne multi-panel bomber jacket
Adorned with the brand’s hallmark red-white-blue stripe, Thom Browne’s wool bomber jacket is cut for a straight fit. Exemplifying the brand’s off-beat preppy style, this colour block bomber features panels of blue, taupe brown and grey along with ribbed trims, gold-tone press-stud closures and a band collar.
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