I missed out on the grey wool Zara bomber and now it’s on Vinted and Depop for way more than the original price tag. Are there any others I should try? And do I really need a bomber jacket for spring?
Mia, Watford
As someone who loved bombers long before we all (me included, naturally) went mad for that limited edition Zara number, yes, you do need one. If you swear by blazers for work and shackets for the weekend, the humble bomber is the natural off-duty wardrobe addition.
Think ‘bomber jacket’ and I’d imagine it’s the multicoloured varsity styles (Yellowjackets fans will be thrilled) that spring to mind first, then the orange-lined MA-1 style second. The new iteration of bomber jackets for 2023 is a completely different situation.
Think sleek minimal silhouettes, luxe fabrics and expensive-looking neutrals. These are jackets you can throw on over tailored trousers and a fine knit for the office and not look out of place.
That Zara bomber really set pace. The £109 limited-edition number was in a dark grey wool, slouchy shape and looked like it cost at least four times it’s price tag. While it’s a chic jacket (I’ve got lots of wear out of mine), it was the ‘limited-edition’ warning that I’d say caused it to quickly gain traction and become a sellout piece. But if you missed out, fear not, there are tons around right now.
If you’re still on the hunt, you might like to note a few shopping and styling tips. One factor to note is the cut: a fitted style is not the vibe this season, instead, go for relaxed, slouchy, I-just-threw-this-on vibes. This might mean you need to size up one or two to get the desired fit, but it means your bomber will see you right through to autumn, too, as you can fit warm layers underneath nicely.
Secondly, it needs to be longline. That’s not to say you need to drown in it, but one that hits on or just under your bum looks the most modern. If you’re keen to go for a shorter style however, Zara’s khaki number below is ideal: a boxy cropped fit looks great with high-waisted trousers and skirts. The main takeaway to know? This isn’t about a sporty bomber that ticks the athleisure box. The bomber 2.0 is just as smart as it is relaxed.
Ready to shop? These are the sleekest styles around now, but you’d be wise to snap them up quickly if you’re keen as demand is high…
The bombers
Read more on trending new season outfits:
- The 6 It Zara dresses trending right now that you can still get your hands on
- The Gen Z accessory trends to know about
- The 6 spring-summer fashion trends you need to know about
- From sizing to styling, everything you need to know before you buy into the denim maxi skirt trend
What to wear with bomber jackets for spring
These sleeker bombers naturally feel quite current, but your outfit styling can make or break things. While you can throw a blazer or shacket over virtually any look, from a printed dress to a T-shirt and jeans, bomber-jacket outfits need more consideration.
By default, it’s an edgy jacket, and even in luxe fabrics like wool, it gives off a ‘cool’ minimal vibe. The chicest bomber jacket outfits stick to this theme: think leather trousers, chunky knitwear, logo T-shirts and denim skirts, with polished knee-high boots (a stylish contrast), or It trainers like Adidas Samba or Veja Campos.
Don’t let the ‘cool’ vibe put you off – it just means that a bomber jacket is the quickest way to bring your outfits up to date and add a sleek element to your look.
Easy bomber jacket outfit inspiration for spring
The bomber comes into its own for off-duty days: it looks particularly chic as a texture clash with leather trousers and cosy knits, as seen here.
If you’re keen to wear yours to work, keep the rest of your look sleek. Think a smart bag, tailored trousers and loafers and you’re good to go.
While it’s still chilly, team your bomber with a long chunky knit, leggings and knee-high boots for a comfy but slick outfit formula.
A Breton in spring is a no-brainer, and the humble bomber gives it an edge for the new season. Team with chunky accessories for a chic look.
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