The bomber is the jacket of the moment.
Spotted on the autumn/winter 23 runways at Prada, Gucci and Dior to name a few, the military staple that dates back to World War One has been elevated from its practical roots to become a fully-fledged fashion staple for luxury houses and high street labels alike.
What’s more, they’re a key element of the off-duty celeb uniform. Over the years, everyone from Liam Hemsworth to Pharrell, John Legend to Bradley Cooper have been spotted wearing the trend - not to mention the design Ryan Gosling wears in Drive which we’ve all been lusting over ever since.
Characterised by a silhouette which fits tightly at the waist owing to a ribbed hem and a zipper or popper closure, the bomber jacket was first worn in leather as a flight jacket before dropping the collar and becoming more lightweight in the late 50s.
Now, they come in all shapes and sizes. From leather to nylon, satin to bouclé, you can invest in a varsity-inspired design, a plain shell style or even one that’s been given a motorcross makeover (ASOS, we’re looking at you). If one thing’s for sure, it’s that you won’t be disappointed by the vast range that’s on offer.
Throw one over a completely basic outfit - we’re talking anything as simple as a t-shirt and jeans - and you instantly look like you’ve made an effort. Fashion-forward yet oozing a sense of laid back cool, they’re versatile, easy to style and, above all, super comfortable.
With countless iterations on the market, we’ve done the groundwork to bring you the best available to buy now.
Keep scrolling for our top pick.
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Gant Satin Varsity Jacket
What’s not to love about Gant’s bomber jacket? From the collegiate aesthetic to the satin-look fabric, it’s a luxe, laid-back take on the trend that leans in to the label’s American heritage. Pair with the matching shorts to up the 80s ante.
Buy now £310.00, Gant
Gucci Reversible GG-jacquard cotton-blend bomber jacket
Whilst Gucci’s bomber is a higher price point, the logo GG jacquard is actually reversible - so you’re essentially getting two jackets for the price of one. On the flip side, it’s a simple plain camel, so you can tone down the branding for a look that’s more demure.
Buy now £1900.00, MatchesFashion
Mr P. Organic Cotton-Jersey Bomber Jacket
Mr P.’s collection is packed full of luxury essentials that will become the foundational building blocks of your wardrobe - and the quality ensures they’re made to last.
This bomber is a case in point. Constructed using a brushed organic cotton, finished with snap fastenings and a contrast ribbed hem, it’s a classic that will work with almost any outfit.
Buy now £185.00, Mr. Porter
ASOS DESIGN motorcross bomber jacket with badging in blue and white
A definite 2023 trend, you’re sure to have spotted celebs, fashion editors and influencers all over your IG feed chanelling the motorcross aesthetic - so why not invest in a bomber that does just that?
Featuring embroidery and contrast panels, ASOS’s design gives the genuine styles a run for their money - and it’s a fraction of the price.
Buy now £70.00, ASOS
Reiss Dilan Suede Zip Through Bomber Jacket
You can count on Reiss for elegant, well made pieces that will take you from the office to date night with ease - as proven by this smart, suede number. In a dark blue, it’s buttery-soft and slim-fitting for a streamlined look.
Buy now £398.00, Reiss
Axel Arigato Annex Bomber Jacket
Swedish brand Axel Arigato is best known for its extensive range of trainers - but its ready-to-wear collection is not to be overlooked.
A reversible bomber, on one side there’s a varsity patch on the front and tonal A-stitching on the back, whilst the other is quilted with a subtle pattern of the label’s signature A motif.
You’ll be looking grade-A from all angles, whichever side you’re wearing.
Buy now £315.00, Axel Arigato
Cos X Yeboah Cocoon Track Jacket
Scandi high-street hero has teamed up with London-based designer Yeboah for a capsule that blends the former’s minimal tailoring with the latter’s streetwear design codes.
We love this teddy bomber that features a fleece interor. Cosy and super soft, wear it with the matching track pants for a relaxing day on the sofa or for a long day travelling - you’ll never want to take it off.
Buy now £115.00, Cos
Paul Smith 'Storm System' Wool Bomber Jacket
British tailoring specialist Paul Smith is a go-to for quality menswear - including this bomber jacket.
Crafted using Loro Piana’s technical wool cloth (who’s own bombers cost anywhere from £2,000 - £5,500), the fabric is of the utmost excellence - as is the designer’s craftsmanship. It’s waterproof, wind-resistant and features a two-way zip.
Buy now £725.00, Paul Smith
Dickies Hughson Jacket
A classic through and through, Dickies’ take on the trend is a wardrobe staple that every guy could do with in their jacket repertoire. It will look good with almost anything, whether you’re dressing it down with jeans and a tee or up with a pair of trousers and a polo shirt.
Buy now £95.00, Dickies
Celine Embellished Shell Bomber Jacket
This season, Celine went all out on the bomber with varsity styles, leather trim versions, satin designs - and, of course, this burgundy shell jacket.
A classic aviation silhouette, it’s been given a cool twist in line with the French fashion house’s signature effortless Parisian elegance with intricate stud embellishments on the front and back.
Buy now £2600.00, Mr. Porter
Percival Bomber Jacket
Any stylish gent should have Percival on their radar. With thoughtfully designed menswear that’s at once easy-to-wear and fashion-forward, it’s an easy win.
This jacket is no exception. Handmade in Portugal from a black boucle wool, the patch pockets and baseball collar create a cool and casual aesthetic.
Buy now £249.00, Percival
Nanushka Dufan Double wool silk bomber
It’s impossible to browse Nanushka’s menswear offering without adding something to your basket - which is easily demonstrated with this wool silk bomber. At once relaxed and elevated, it has a subtle sheen and is cut to absolute perfection.
Buy now £1075.00, Nanushka
