Shearling and leather bomber jackets are having a moment this year. Maybe it’s because Tom Cruise proved in Top Gun: Maverick that he’s still good-looking, or maybe it’s just because this season’s fashion trends feel more like classics. Either way, here is your sign to get a shearling leather bomber jacket, with 12 styles linked below to shop.
SHOP MY OUTFIT: FAUX LEATHER VEST | BLACK SKINNY JEANS (UNDER $100) | LOEFFLER RANDALL TALL BROWN BOOTS | YSL SUNGLASSES | BLACK TURTLENECK | A.P.C BROWN BAG
Let’s Chat Shearling Bomber Jackets
What is a Bomber Jacket?
A bomber jacket, also known as a flight jacket or aviator jacket, is traditionally short jacket with a ribbed hem and cuffs. Much like the name suggests, bomber jackets were designed for function (not fashion) for pilots on military planes in WII. Pilots were flying in high altitudes, so the jackets needed to be warm while also allowing for easy movement.
Over the years, popular culture has adapted the bomber jacket, varying its fabrics, lengths, and colors, but this year it’s all about the OG styles: leather and shearling.
What to Wear with a Shearling Bomber Jacket
Casual: Wide Leg Jeans and Sneakers
Given their origin, bomber jackets always feel a bit retro. Pair your shearling bomber jacket with a pair of classic blue jeans. For a more modern take on denim, try some wide leg jeans. Keep things simple and casual with a crew neck t-shirt and sneakers. (In the spirit of nostalgia, you can’t go wrong with Converse sneakers.)
Sleek: Black Skinny Jeans
There’s something so sleek – and dare I say sophisticated – about wearing all black with a shearling bomber jacket.
This outfit at its core is basic. It’s just my favorite pair of black skinny jeans (under $100 & run TTS) and a black turtleneck. However, my shearling vest adds a cozy statement. To give my bomber jacket more of an elevated feel, I swapped out flat sneakers or boots in favor of a tall heel boot.
You probably already have black skinny jeans, and if you don’t have a black turtleneck, get one ASAP.
You could wear this to lunch, dinner, or simply if you just want to feel chic for a day of errands.
SIZE NOTE: This faux leather shearling vest runs TTS. I am wearing a size small.
For Dinner: With Dresses or Skirts
Try pairing opposites. A leather jacket adds some tomboy edge to feminine dresses and skirts.
I wore this all-black faux suede shearling aviator jacket with a floral skirt to dinner last month in Vermont and got a ton of compliments on my outfit.
