As I pack up for the end of my sophomore year at Purdue, I can’t help but take notice of my excessive and beloved wardrobe. With the opportunity to take a gander at each piece individually on it’s way to my suitcase, I couldn’t help but notice a trend. One, I have a problem, and two, a certain obsession with bomber jackets.
From its genesis in the 1950s as Air Force jackets for military uniforms through the 1980s letterman era and 1990s punk phase to today’s street style and luxury staple, the bomber jacket has utterly played the field. Their versatility and effortlessness combine for practically the perfect throw-on for every outfit.
I decided to put that statement to the test and style three bomber infused looks, (1) casual, (2) evening, and (3) athleisure. Hopefully this helps in justifying to myself why this many suitcases in necessary…
Bomber #1: Casual
I picked up this teddybear bomber post holiday season from Old Navy for the criminal price of literally $6! Ever since, it’s been in steady rotation for everyday ensembles usually involving some combination of denim and cotton.
I paired this bomber with a shear top and vintage denim skirt cinched with a Michael Kors belt and accessorized with my go-to jewelry and adidas sneaks.
Perfect for a cozy layer and extra splash of texture, this bomber added just what I needed to complete this casual, everyday look.
Bomber #2: Evening
Forget an add-on, this satin bomber SERVES and serves as the perfect statement for evening-wear. Count me in for a bold red, embroidery, and contrasting hemlines any night.
This Forever21 bomber helped add just a little more coverage and chic downtown feel to my slip dress. Complemented with lace-up booties and more flashy jewelry, this bomber is begging for a night out.
Bomber #3: Athleisure
While fun textures and bold hues can help make an outfit, there’s no denying the importance of a simple and necessary staple. This black nylon bomber I picked up from H&M is the ultimate utility player. Case in point: paired with each of these scenarios, it works!
For the comfiest of all three looks, this athleisure take on a bomber ensemble is definitely the easiest to replicate. I layered my black bomber over a simple and fun sports bra, paired with more criss-cross detailing courtesy of Aerie’s killer fitness collection and Under Armour sneakers.
If this doesn’t prove how workable bomber jackets are into virtually any look, then at least I’ve satisfied my own obsession. The utility in scenarios and diversity in color, fabric, and detailing make a bomber jacket purchase never dull and never without decent reason to buy another. Spoken as a true enabler.