The bomber jacket is a versatile outerwear piece that can be styled in many different ways. When paired with the right shirt, it can transform an outfit from drab to fab. This guide explores how to wear a bomber jacket with a shirt, providing tips on combining different styles, colors, and accessories to create fashionable looks.
Classic Bomber Jacket Styles
MA-1 Bomber Jacket
The MA-1 bomber is a military-style jacket typically made of durable nylon fabric. Key features include a fitted waist, ribbed collar, cuffs and hem, and a front zipper closure. These jackets come in classic colors like olive green, navy blue, and black.
Pair an MA-1 bomber with basic pieces like t-shirts, button-downs, or polos in neutral, military-inspired shades. Accessorize with aviator sunglasses and combat boots for a utilitarian edge.
Varsity Bomber Jacket
Varsity bomber jackets have a retro collegiate vibe, often featuring leather or wool construction with contrast sleeves and letterman patches or stripes. They commonly come in school colors like red, white, and blue.
Give your varsity bomber preppy flare by layering it over an Oxford button-down, polo, or knit sweater. Add a baseball cap or beanie for extra athletic style.
Flight Bomber Jacket
The flight bomber is the original pilot jacket, cut from leather or durable synthetics like nylon. Styles feature shearling or fur trim on the collar, cuffs, and hem with a heavy-duty front zipper. Traditional colors include brown, black, and navy blue.
Build an aviator-inspired look by pairing your flight bomber with a turtleneck, henley shirt, or mock neck top. White, cream, tan, and grey make suitable shirt shade options.
Modern Bomber Jacket
Contemporary bomber jackets come in updated fabrics like denim, satin, or suede. Many feature asymmetric zippers, unique embroidery, patchwork, and other eye-catching details.
Make a fashion-forward statement by complementing the texture and patterns of an modern bomber with a graphic t-shirt, slouchy tank, or satin shirt in a coordinating or contrasting hue.
Choosing the Right Shirt
Basic T-Shirt
A basic white or black t-shirt readily pairs with any bomber jacket style. It creates a casual, fuss-free look perfect for everyday wear.
Oxford Shirt
An Oxford button-down injects polish into a bomber jacket outfit. Light blue or white shades have a preppy feel, while darker hues like black, olive, or brown seem more refined.
Flannel Shirt
A plaid flannel or solid-colored version makes a perfect cold weather companion under a bomber jacket. Choose flannel in complementary colors that tie your look together.
Polo Shirt
A polo shirt lends a sporty vibe to bomber jacket combos. Contrast the bomber's color with the polo for visual interest.
Henley Shirt
Henleys match the laidback attitude of a bomber jacket. Opt for neutral, earthy, or pastel henleys with subtle details like contrast stitching or color-tipped hems.
Sweater
When temperatures drop, layer a crewneck, turtleneck, or shawl collar sweater under your bomber for warmth. Choose soft neutral sweaters or bold colors that pop against the jacket.
Color Combination Ideas
Monochromatic
Stick to the same color family for an unfussy, pulled-together look. For example, pair an olive green bomber with an olive green t-shirt or black bomber with black button-down.
Complementary Colors
Color combinations like orange and blue or red and green inject visual punch by contrasting complementary hues. Just ensure shades have the same brightness and saturation levels.
Analogous Colors
Analogous colors sit next to each other on the color wheel, creating easy-to-wear harmonious combos. Try a red bomber with a burgundy tee or pink bomber with a purple top.
Neutrals and Brights
Ground a neutral bomber (like tan, grey, or black) with a vibrant colorful shirt underneath. The neutral jacket anchors the eye-catching bright tone.
Statement Bomber as Focus
For bomber jackets with bold patterns or embellishments, keep the accompanying shirt simple, avoiding prints or bright colors that compete for attention.
Accessories and Footwear
Complete your bomber jacket and shirt outfit with accessories and shoes that align with the look's overall vibe. Some ideas include:
Casual Looks
- White sneakers or slip on Vans
- Baseball hat
- Backpack or messenger bag
- Wayfarer sunglasses
Athletic Looks
- Tennis shoes or chunky trainers
- Sporty duffel bag
- Baseball cap
- Performance sunglasses
Sophisticated Looks
- Chelsea or lace-up boots
- Patterned scarf
- Leather messenger bag
- Clubmaster sunglasses The right shirt and accessory pairings can transform a basic bomber jacket into a stylish statement. Use color, texture, and complementary pieces to craft fashion-forward combos that suit your personal taste. Don’t hesitate to get creative and express yourself!
Conclusion
In conclusion, the bomber jacket is a versatile and stylish outerwear piece that can be paired with various shirt styles to create different looks. Whether you opt for a classic MA-1 or a modern bomber, there are endless possibilities for combining it with shirts in different colors, patterns, and fabrics. By following these tips and experimenting with different combinations, you can elevate your bomber jacket outfits and make a fashion statement wherever you go. Remember to have fun and let your personal style shine through!
