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.
AllSaints Marco bomber jacket
AllSaints has long been a go-to for off-duty, rock’n’roll style – largely thanks to its masterful leather pieces that tread a fine line between quality and affordability. Cut to an oversized fit in 100 per cent sheep leather, this season AllSaints is offering its cult Marco bomber in a relaxed vintage black colourway that promises to be the perfect partner to your favourite jeans.
Brunello Cucinelli bomber jacket
Not satisfied with only producing some of the finest tailoring and knitwear in the menswear market, Italian fashion house Brunello Cucinelli also does a rather fine line in outerwear. Crafted from a lightweight cotton-blend, this classic jacket has been tailored for a streamlined silhouette and features a short collar for a casual Friday-worthy aesthetic.
Kith Carlton bomber jacket
Made to steal the show no matter where you are, this Western-inspired Kith bomber jacket is a slice of modern Americana. Complete with arrow detailing at the pockets, a constrast panel and vintage embroidery on the back, this piece will work best with good old-fashion blue denim.
Amiri Bones bomber jacket
Amiri’s bomber jacket is the perfect way to add a subtle edge to your look. Made from a textured wool blend, it features bone patches on the sleeves with ribbed ribbons on the hem and cuffs. Supplement the jacket’s sporty vibe with some baggy jeans and chunky trainers.
Burberry leather bomber jacket
Burberry chose supple calf leather for its luxe take on the classic bomber jacket. Rendered in all black, with flap pockets and rib-knit trims, this suave jacket shows that, sometimes, less really is more.
Gucci reversible bomber jacket
If you’re looking to make a style statement, Gucci’s varsity-inspired bomber jacket is sure to do the trick – the Italian fashion house has certainly not held back with this eye-catching design. Featuring contrast detailing at the neck and cuffs, choose between a plain navy or GG monogrammed fabrication with this clever reversible design.
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 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.
Reiss shearling bomber jacket
Offering supreme protection from the elements with its cosy shearling collar, Reiss’ bomber jacket is guaranteed to see you through winter. 100 per cent leather with a sheepskin collar and deep flap pcokets, it’s the epitome of fashion-meets-function.
Thom Browne bomber jacket
Adorned with the brand’s hallmark 4-bar stripe, Thom Browne’s wool bomber jacket is cut for a straight fit. Exemplifying the brand’s off-beat preppy style, it features contrasting leather sleeves along with ribbed trims. Wear with your favourite black jeans and chunky trainers.
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