The Bomber Jacket didn’t rise to popularity through Marilyn Monroe but you have to admit, she wears one well. The history of the bomber jacket starts way before then! As the name states, ‘Bomber’ kind of makes it quite obvious that it wasn’t tank drivers either.
The bomber jacket, also known as the flight jacket, has a fascinating history that dates back to the early 20th century.
The first bomber jacket was created in 1917, during World War I, as a way to keep pilots warm in open-air cockpits. The jacket was made of leather and had a fur collar and cuffs to provide extra insulation. It also had a front zipper, which made it easy to put on and take off while wearing bulky gloves.
In the 1930s, as military aviation technology advanced, so did the bomber jacket. The new designs featured knit cuffs and waistbands, which helped to keep out the wind, and were made of lighter-weight materials, such as nylon.
During World War II, the bomber jacket became an iconic symbol of American military might, as thousands of bomber pilots and crew members wore them on missions. The jackets were often adorned with squadron patches and insignias, making them highly personalized and treasured by their wearers.
Post War
After the war, the bomber jacket remained popular among veterans and civilians alike, as a symbol of American pride and military heritage. It also gained popularity in fashion circles, thanks to its rugged, masculine style and association with the heroic pilots of World War II.
In the decades that followed, the bomber jacket continued to evolve, with new materials, designs, and colours being introduced. Today, the bomber jacket remains a popular fashion item, worn by men and women of all ages, and has become a timeless wardrobe staple that transcends generations.
The Bomber Jacket in Popular Culture
Bomber jackets have had a significant impact on popular culture, becoming a symbol of military power, aviation, and style. Here are some examples of how bomber jackets have been portrayed in popular culture:
Hollywood movies
Bomber jackets have been a fixture in Hollywood movies since the 1940s. They have been worn by actors portraying military heroes, bad boys, and rebels. Some notable examples include Tom Cruise in “Top Gun,” Steve McQueen in “The Great Escape,” and Ryan Gosling in “Drive.”
Music videos
Bomber jackets have been featured in countless music videos over the years, particularly in the punk and hip-hop genres. They are often worn by musicians as a symbol of rebellion and individuality. Some examples include Kanye West’s “All of the Lights” and Avril Lavigne’s “Complicated.”
Sports
Bomber jackets have been a popular choice for athletes and sports fans alike, particularly in the United States. They have been worn by baseball players, basketball stars, and football quarterbacks. The iconic “starter jacket” of the 1990s became a cultural phenomenon and is still worn by many today.
Fashion
Bomber jackets have become a staple of fashion over the years, with designers putting their own unique spin on the classic style. They have been worn by celebrities, models, and fashion icons, and have been featured in countless runway shows and fashion shoots.
Overall, the bomber jacket has become an enduring symbol of military might, aviation, and fashion, and has had a significant impact on popular culture over the years.
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