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It’s no news that bomber jackets are all the rage, ruling the fashion industry like a boss. And when it comes to women’s fashion, vintage inspired classic bomber jackets are at the top. Surpassing beyond their military roots and making a place in the fashion world, these jackets have also engraved their mark in contemporary women’s fashion. They are now considered a must-have wardrobe essential.

With their classic design, bomber jackets stir vintage vibes, making them even more appealing and timeless.

This post highlights some of the classiest women’s bomber jackets, distinct features, and styling options. Please read about my experience as a former glider pilot with the various styles, and their features to find the perfect aviator jacket for your personal style and life style.

 

Disclosure: Sponsored.

 

What Makes a Women’s Leather Bomber Jacket a Must-Have for Your Wardrobe?

Ever since bomber jackets have invaded the fashion world, they have been loved for their versatility and classic appeal. Some reasons that make it a wardrobe essential are:

  • Durability:
    Bomber jackets are made from leather, and their durability makes them a long-term investment. The style and functionality that these bad boys offer also keep them on top.
  • Versatility:
    Bomber jackets can be styled with a number of outfits, making them suitable for various occasions. Whether you sport one for a daytime casual look or over dressy attire for an evening event (see styling inspiration below), your bomber jacket will effortlessly blend in your outfit and make you look 10x more attractive.
  • Comfort:
    The comfortable design of the leather bomber jacket makes it a top choice. Its relaxed fit, ribbed cuffs, multiple pockets, and ease of movement combine to make it a comfortable ensemble that rules the wardrobes. A plus, leather is wind-proof.
  • Timeless Appeal:
    The eye-catching design of bomber jackets has been ruling the fashion world for a long time, which makes them an evergreen ensemble irrespective of changing fashion trends. The appeal, comfort, style, and functionality offered by a women’s bomber jacket make it never go out of fashion.

 

collage presenting the versatility to style a vintage inspired classic bomber jacket in black
A black classic-cut aviator jacket is versatility to style as outerwear (left), instead of a blazer on Casual Friday (middle), and even with an evening gown (right). I bought this piece in 2008 and still wear it regularly.

 

 

Some of the Best Women’s Bomber Jackets For Your Wardrobe

My love for bomber jackets started when I was a teenager. There was a sailing plane field about 16 miles (26 km) away from my parents’ house. I biked out there to watch the sailing planes starting and landing. Many of the pilots wore shark gray leather bomber jackets with a pen pocket on one of the sleeves and orange satin lining. The women looked so cool in these jackets. Especially, when they were wearing it over a white T-shirt with dark jeans and white sneakers.

When in graduate school, I learned to fly gliders. Having been a pilot, I have worn various different styles of bomber jackets over the years. Ever since I started flying, I have worn my aviator jackets not only in the air, but also at work and play. From my experience wearing and styling these garments I learned the following.

 

Classic Leather Bomber Jacket

The military initially designed the classic leather women’s bomber jacket. These timeless pieces feature a fitted waist, zippered front, ribbed cuffs, and a leather exterior. Their minimalist style design makes them versatile options that can compliment any outfit.

Styling Tips:

You can style your classic black leather jacket with skinny jeans, a black top, and ankle boots for a laid-back look.

Alternatively, for a semi-casual evening outfit, pair it with a black dress and wear black heels to complement the look.

 

Embroidered Leather Bomber Jacket

Embroidered leather bomber jackets are a contemporary take on the classic bomber style. These jackets offer a unique yet feminine touch to the classic design, making them a top choice for various occasions, especially, when you have Romantic Style. The intricate detailing and patterns transform the jacket’s vibe, making it a statement piece.

Styling Tips:
You can style your women’s embroidered leather bomber jacket with a plain tee and denim skirt so that your bomber jacket is the focal point of your attire.

Alternatively, you can wear a ribbed knit black vest underneath the jacket and pair it with tailored pants for a bold fashion statement.

 

Shearling Lined Leather Bomber Jacket

The shearling-lined leather bomber jackets are full of functionality and style. Retaining the classic design, these shearling bomber jackets provide ultimate warmth in bone-chilling cold. The plush, shearling interior and rugged leather exterior make them an ideal combo of elegance and comfort. They are an Arctic favorite.

Styling Tips: For a winter-ready look, pair your brown shearling-lined bomber jacket with a cozy green sweater and leggings.

Alternatively, you can wear a rust colored turtleneck underneath the jacket along with jeans for a classy layered look.

 

shearling lined bomber jacket styled alternatively with dress, skinnies, and skirt sweater separates
Shearling bomber jackets keep your thermal comfort in winter. They look great with a casual knit dress (left), skin cargo pants and sweater (middle), and even a business casual outfit as I demonstrate here.

 

Vintage Leather Bomber Jacket

Vintage leather bomber jackets offer retro vibes with their vintage detailing. These jackets are the perfect ensemble for those who love classic styles, featuring distressed leather, vintage elements, and a classic design.

Styling Tips:
Pair your distressed leather bomber jacket with high-waisted jeans and a plaid button-down shirt to maintain a vintage-inspired aesthetic. Sport a pair of retro sneakers to complement the overall attire.

Alternatively, you can wear your distressed leather jacket with a bohemian dress to create a blend of styles. Go for a pair of flat pumps with this one.

 

Suede Aviator Jackets

Suede bomber jackets are crafted from soft, luxurious suede, which gives the classic bomber style a velvety texture. Their cuts and detailing offer laid-back vibes, making them ideal for casual occasions. When you live a glider-pilot life and push planes, go for a muted color for easier maintenance.

Styling tips:
Sport your suede bomber jacket with a tank top and high-waisted jeans for a relaxed look. Wearing white sneakers with this one will maintain the easygoing vibe.

Alternatively, you can wear your suede jacket over a blouse and pair it with tailored trousers for a relaxed fit. Go for a pair of loafers with this look.

 

me 1985 wearing a suede bomber jacket during a field campaign
This photo from 1985 shows me wearing a suede bomber jacket during a meteorological field campaign. At that time the jacket was about 7 years old.

 

 

Floral Aviator Jackets

Floral aviators typically consist of a woven fabric with a floral print. The floral print aviator jacket trend pops up every couple of years. Because of the porosity of the fabric, woven bombers fail to be wind-proof, and lack the long durability of leather, shearling, or suede.

 

three outfit ideas for woven trendy aviators
Trendy pieces in the Pantone color of the year or print patterns have a short tenure in any closet. If the trend is over they read yesteryear even when they have a classic cut like these styling examples.

 

Pick the Right Color

Why is color important and of interest? As we get older our skin and hair loose some of their youthful colors. As a result, we may more easily look pale or even unhealthy in all neutral outfits, pastels, dark colors or a monochromatic outfit. Therefore, look for a neutral or fashion color from your color season.

 

Best Vintage Inspired Classic Bomber Jackets in a Nutshell

Women’s bomber jackets are super versatile and can uplift your look quickly. They are loved as a timeless wardrobe essential. No matter your style preference, all classic bomber jacket styles are versatile and can go well on all occasions.

If you are one of those ladies who like to make a style statement with a unique fashion sense, a bomber jacket is perfect. Investing in a good-quality bomber jacket is not only a fashion game changer but will also be a long-lasting ensemble for years to come.

 

Photos: G. Kramm

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