Bomber jackets are more than a style they’re a story. Born from aviation necessity and military precision, these timeless garments have evolved into modern icons of streetwear, luxury and seasonal layering. But with so many variations from shearling-lined bombers to suede V-cut styles, the world of bombers can be confusing.
This guide breaks down everything you need to know: where bomber jackets came from, which lining suits which climate, and how to choose between casual and premium materials. Whether you’re shopping in Australia 2025, preparing for the cooler months ahead or wondering "Are bomber jackets in style 2024?", this is your complete, in-depth guide.
Let’s get into the layers.
1. From the Skies to the Streets – The Origin Story of Bomber Jackets
Bomber jackets didn’t start as a fashion statement but as a functional garment for military pilots during World War I and II. Originally designed to keep airmen warm in freezing, unpressurized cockpits, these jackets were defined by their tight waists, high collars, ribbed cuffs and lined interiors for insulation.
The first ones were made with horsehide or goatskin leather and shearling linings for thermal performance. Over time materials diversified, silhouettes evolved and the bomber made its way into post-war streetwear, hip-hop fashion, punk rebellion and high fashion runways.
Today, whether you live in Melbourne, Perth or Brisbane, a good bomber jacket is a year-round staple in any AU wardrobe adaptable, functional and stylish.
2. The A-1 Jacket – Where It All Began
The A-1 bomber jacket is the original bomber silhouette. Developed by the U.S. Army Air Corps in the 1920s, it had button-front closures, rib-knit cuffs and wool trims, which would later become the MA-1 and B-series bombers.
Fashion has updated the look but the bones of the A-1 remain. It’s still got clean lines; timeless collar design and heritage feel.
Our featured Military A-1 Pilot Leather Bomber Jacket For Men’s keeps that legacy. Made with premium leather and wool accents, it’s the original updated for modern Australian fashion. Perfect for those who like military styling with everyday practicality.
3. Lining Options – Shearling, Quilted, Satin Compared
The lining of your bomber jacket doesn’t just feel good it determines when and where you’ll wear it.
· Shearling lining is for cold climates, heavy duty warmth and plush comfort.
· Quilted linings are for mild Australian winters, mid-weight insulation with less bulk.
· Satin and cotton linings are for spring layering or casual evening wear.
The Pure Black B3 Shearling Bomber Leather Jacket For Men has full shearling lining and oversized collar. Originally made for WWII bomber crews, this jacket is now a winter staple for anyone who wants to stay warm and make a bold, masculine statement.
4. Casual vs Premium – Material Matters
Not all bomber jackets are created equal. Casual bombers use nylon, cotton, or faux leather, while premium options are made with genuine leather, suede and high-end hardware.
The real difference? Durability, structure and how the jacket ages over time.
Our Men’s Tan Brown Suede Leather Bomber Jacket is a perfect example of a premium casual hybrid. The suede finish gives it a soft, breathable texture for daytime wear, but the build and color takes it above the ordinary. Suede bombers are great for brunches, art gallery visits and layering over knits during autumn in Australia.
5. The Rise of Suede – Smart, Versatile and Unapologetically Stylish
Suede has found its place in bomber culture as the perfect balance between laid-back and luxurious. It drapes well, feels soft to the touch and works across seasons.
Australians are choosing suede bombers for their versatility. Not too heavy for the warmer climate, yet substantial enough for early spring and autumn, suede bombers are multi-use fashion pieces.
The Men’s Tan Brown Suede Leather Bomber Jacket, mentioned above, fits here too. Whether you’re heading to a café in Sydney or a weekend winery trip outside Adelaide, suede gives you that cool without trying too hard vibe.
6. The V-Bomber Reinvented – Adding Color to Tradition
Traditionally bomber jackets were brown, black and military green. But modern interpretations play with color and you can be more expressive.
The Teal Leather V-Bomber Jacket breaks the rules. The teal is bold but wearable, perfect for those who want to stand out without being too flashy. The V-style also adds geometric sharpness and gives it a modern architectural feel.
This colorway is for fashion-forward buyers in Australia 2025 especially in creative and urban spaces like Fitzroy or Newtown.
7. Fur Collars & High Contrast – Function Meets Fashion
A fur-trimmed bomber adds visual interest and weather-ready warmth. Whether synthetic or real, these collars add drama and a touch of retro aviation style to the traditional shape.
The Red Leather V-Bomber Jacket with Black Fur Collar combines color contrast, texture layering and luxury feel. The black fur softens the red leather, making it daring but still wearable for date nights or urban evenings.
How to pack a leather jacket like this for travel? Fold it loosely into a breathable garment bag and don’t compress it. Hang it immediately on arrival to maintain the structure.
8. Classic Shearling Reimagined – The Aviator B16 Jacket
The B16 bomber jacket is the epitome of old-school pilot cool thick shearling interiors, heavy-duty leather and a broad collar to block the wind. Originally designed for bomber crews flying high above enemy lines, it’s become a symbol of masculinity and classic style.
The Men’s Aviator B16 Bomber Shearling Jacket – Classic Style brings this heritage into the modern era. Black leather exterior, creamy shearling lining. As functional as it is handsome.
Looking for a deeper comparison? Check out this black mens aviator jacket another classic reimagined for today.
9. Global Style Shifts – AU vs EU vs USA Bomber Preferences
In Australia, bomber jackets are layering pieces especially useful in places where winter means 15°C not snow. Australians love lightweight leather, earth tones and smart silhouettes.
In Europe they go for tailored cuts and luxury finishes, while in the USA it’s oversized streetwear-inspired fits, especially in sportswear and hip-hop.
This regional difference affects how brands cut, style and market bomber jackets globally. In Australia 2025 expect to see more leather jackets that blend performance and polish function without sacrificing fashion.
10. Conclusion – How to Choose the Right Bomber for You
So how do you choose the right bomber?
Start with weather shearling for winter, suede or satin-lined for autumn or spring. Consider lifestyle daily wear or special occasion only? Think about functionality do you need pockets, travel durability or warmth?
Want something versatile and bold? Try the Military A-1 Pilot Jacket. Looking for cozy luxury? The B16 Shearling is for you.
And if you’re looking beyond men’s options, check out Women’s Leather Biker Jackets where bombers meet feminine flair.
Final Thoughts:
· Are bomber jackets in style 2024? Yes, and more so than ever.
· Whether you’re in Perth or Paris, suede or shearling, there’s a bomber for you.
· Choose based on material, lining, weather and how you want to feel when you wear it.