A BRIEF HISTORY OF THE BOMBER JACKET (2024)

FAQs

A BRIEF HISTORY OF THE BOMBER JACKET? ›

'Bomber jackets,' as we've come to refer to them today, were originally known as 'flight jackets' and were created by the US Army Aviation Clothing Board in 1917 to keep WWI pilots warm in the uninsulated, open-air co*ckpits of the early fighter planes.

Background and history

The bomber jacket originates from military clothing which trickled down into subcultures such as punk. It has recently made its way into high fashion. The military bomber jacket was made to be versatile for functionality as it was a lightweight jacket that kept aircrews warm.

In 1944, the B-15 entered the scene and became the jacket that many recognize as a “proper” bomber jacket. The B-15 brought back the mouton fur collar and reintroduced the knit waist and cuffs, but the shell was crafted of various materials including cotton, and later, nylon.

World War II: The Rise of the Bomber: As we recognize it today, the bomber jacket took shape during World War II. The U.S. Army introduced the A-2 flight jacket with tight cuffs and a waistband. It was stylish yet functional and became a symbol of the courageous American pilot.

The first MA-1 jackets were issued to United States Air Force and Navy pilots and flight crews. Small numbers were also issued to Army flight personnel. MA-1 jackets first appeared in Europe in very small quantities in the mid-to-late 1950s probably on the black market and at sales of government surplus.

The style attributes of a bomber jacket (generally) include a cropped length, looser arms and shoulders, and ribbed collars, waistbands and cuffed sleeves. Bombers can be made in a variety of materials and cuts that reflect the outwear's ability to work with any one's style.

noun. : a zippered usually leather jacket with front pockets and knitted cuffs and waistband.

B3 JACKET (1934)

The B3 flight jacket was designed for aircraft bombers who needed to go up high altitudes. Thus it could be rightly referred to as the 'bomber jacket'. The material composition are a combination of sheepskin and very thick sheep fur.

Made of sage-green or blue nylon, a later incarnation could be worn inside out so that the 'blaze orange' or 'international orange' lining could alert rescue missions to stranded pilots.

History. The Type A-2 flying jacket was adopted as standard issue by the U.S. Army Air Corps as the successor to the Type A-1 flying jacket on May 9, 1931, per specification number 94-3040. The U.S. Army Air Forces Class 13 Catalog listed the garment as "Jacket, Flying, Type A-2".

How to identify a bomber jacket? ›

Traditional bomber jackets are typically constructed from leather, sheepskin, or fabric. The jacket is cut at waist length, is closed with a zipper or buttons, and features elasticized cuffs and a hem. The collar can be worn flipped up and secured around the throat for extra protection from the elements.

Their use and versatility make them fit for different body types, occasions, and seasons. It is a comfortable, stylish, and functional everyday wear. You can wear lightweight leather bomber jackets for men during spring and summer while the thicker and insulated ones during winter or fall.

As one of the top fashion trends of 2024, bomber jackets are everywhere now. And, the beauty of this jacket trend is that there is a style for everyone, thanks to the variety of fits found in bomber jacket construction. “A bomber jacket can be slightly oversized and have a loose vibe,” says Singla.

The bomber jacket silhouette was originally known as a 'flight jacket', and these jackets were created by the US Army Aviation Clothing Board in 1917 to keep WWI pilots warm in the uninsulated, open-air co*ckpits of the early fighter planes.

A varsity letter signifies that its recipient was a qualified varsity team member, awarded after a certain standard was met. The high school varsity letter (W) awarded to Richard Nixon at Whittier High School in California, displayed on a letterman jacket.

2-way zips are designed to open from the bottom of the zip as well as from the top. This is to give you more room at the hem of the coat so you will be more comfortable when you are sitting down.

Made of sage-green or blue nylon, a later incarnation could be worn inside out so that the 'blaze orange' or 'international orange' lining could alert rescue missions to stranded pilots.

The RAF Irvin bomber jacket was used by RAF aircrew during World War II and was particularly popular with pilots flying in open-co*ckpit aircraft. The jacket was extremely warm and provided excellent protection against the cold, wind and rain.

With its roots in the military, the bomber jacket brings a sense of nostalgia and bravery when worn. I find the bomber jacket utterly covetable for its silhouette; it is round, strong and tough making the wearer feel powerful.” Given its classic appeal, pre-loved styles are in Depop and Vinted abundance.

The most prominent difference between a bomber jacket and a puffer jacket is in the heaviness of their materials. Puffers are lightweight, whereas bombers are heavy. The puffiness of puffer jackets make them have a looser fit than the fitted, gathered appearance of a bomber jacket.