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The Best Bomber Jackets of 2024 to Upgrade Your Cold-Weather Wardrobe

It's a classic silhouette that never goes out of style

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In This Article

Collage of four of the best bomber jackets, each on a different color background.
Photo:

People / David Hattan

Some wardrobe items are simply iconic, and the bomber jacket is no exception. Inspired by the so-called “flight jackets” of the United States Army from the World War I era, the insulated jacket was adopted by the fashion industry in the 1950s and has since seen become one of the most versatile jackets around. 

“The versatility and range of the bomber jacket are what make it such a great piece for your wardrobe,” says Melina Kemph, a stylist who has worked with star athletes such as Travis Kelce, Kevin Knox, and Denzel Ward. “Bomber, letterman, trench coat with bomber jacket sleeves... there are so many different iterations of the silhouette that allow for it to be worn as casual activewear or dressed up for a night out,” she explains.

Another great thing about a bomber jacket is that it’s the ultimate layering piece, especially in transitional seasons. “It can be worn in place of a sweatshirt or sweater, or even layered on top of them,” says Naina Singla, a style expert and wardrobe consultant. 

Whether you’re looking to give the trend a try or want to find that perfect bomber jacket that you’ll have in your wardrobe for years to come, we’re here to help. We researched dozens of bomber jacket styles, carefully considering design, durability, fabric, fit, and silhouette to find the best bomber jackets to buy. Here are our top picks.

Who It’s Good For
  • Someone shopping for a classic bomber jacket that costs less than $45 and comes in lots of colors.

Who It’s Not Good For
  • Someone who prefers a more varsity style or cropped bomber jacket silhouette.

While bomber jackets can run a high price tag, there are still some incredible options for less. We love the Zeagoo Women’s Bomber Jacket which features a classic bomber jacket style, slightly slouchy fit, and an overall lightweight feel that makes it a great layering piece for the season — wear it over a sweater dress, for example. Available in both a smooth satin finish as well as a quilted style, the bomber jacket from Amazon also comes in lots of fun color options including classics like black, green, and navy. 

Size Range: S-2XL | Material: Not listed | Colors: Black, army green, gray, pink, navy, and 7 other colors

Who It’s Good For
  • Anyone looking for a versatile bomber jacket that they can dress up for the office.

Who It’s Not Good For
  • Someone looking for a genuine leather jacket style with a classic bomber shape.

For a stylish spin on a classic leather bomber jacket, look no further than the Levi's Faux Leather Bomber Jacket. Made from polyurethane for a sleek faux leather material, this versatile jacket is ideal for everyday casual ensembles but is chic enough to wear with stylish work pants for the office, too. It features a point collar that gives a nod to '70s style, plus elastic cuffs for that timeless bomber feel.

Size Range: XS-XXL | Material: Polyurethane | Colors: Biscotti, oyster

Who It’s Good For
  • Someone looking for a cropped bomber jacket with a puffy silhouette in black.

Who It’s Not Good For
  • Someone looking for a more lightweight cropped bomber jacket or those who prefer more color options.

For a classic cropped bomber jacket style, look no further than the All Cropped Break Line Bomber Jacket from Alo. This jacket is constructed from a polyester material and features a thick waistband, slouchy fit, and puffy style for added comfort and cozy vibes. While it’s designed to wear with your favorite athleisure looks, the jacket is also stylish enough to pair with your favorite jeans and a T-shirt, or even a pair of tailored trousers for a more business-casual feel. 

Size Range: XS-L | Material: Polyester | Colors: Black, golden olive branch

Who It’s Good For
  • Someone looking for a lightweight sherpa bomber jacket in a classic style with lots of color options.

Who It’s Not Good For
  • Someone looking for a heavier fleece bomber jacket for colder temperatures.

The Mirol Women’s Sherpa Fleece Jacket is one of our favorite fleece styles because it has a classic bomber jacket style and features fleece on the outside for added cozy texture — wear it with a pair of comfy denim joggers. Additionally, this bomber jacket from Amazon comes in 22 different colors, including several classic neutrals as well as yellow, purple, and pink for a pop of color. The fleece bomber jacket also boasts a functional zipper closure which is a little more accessible than snap buttons. 

Size Range: S-XL | Material: Polyester | Colors: Beige, gray, black, blue, green, and 17 other colors

Who It’s Good For
  • Someone looking for a lightweight quilted jacket.

Who It’s Not Good For
  • Someone shopping for a heavier quilted bomber jacket for winter.

There’s something so cozy about a quilted jacket, no mater how lightweight it actually is. This bomber jacket from Blank NYC is a mix between cozy quilted and a lightweight shell, making it the perfect transitional jacket — layer a cardigan under it for added warmth on chillier days. The lining is 100 percent cotton and the shell is 100 percent lyocell with a lived-in vintage jacket-type feel. It’s an ultra-soft, relaxed, and casual bomber jacket you’ll wear a ton, like your favorite leggings.

Size Range: XS-L | Material: Lyocell, polyester, cotton | Colors: Green, pink, chai tea, rust, sand, wisteria, moonless night, salted lime, leopard

Who It’s Good For
  • Someone looking for a bomber jacket that comes in tons of colors and is a good value.

Who It’s Not Good For
  • Someone looking for a bomber jacket with padding for cooler weather.

The best bomber jacket on Amazon is the URBANFIND Men's Slim Fit Lightweight Sportswear Bomber Jacket. Albeit a men’s jacket, this style could really work as a unisex option with its classic silhouette and color options. It's perfect paired with timeless skinny jeans. The jacket comes highly recommended by nearly 5,000 Amazon customers who rave about it for its fit, value, durability, and material. Some customers love it so much that they own it in several colors, too. The rave reviews plus the under-$45 price tag make it a total add-to-cart item for us.

Size Range: S-XXL | Material: Polyester | Colors: Black, blue, red, gray, khaki, purple, sky blue, avocado green, camo gray, coffee, army green, camp green, yellow

Who It’s Good For
  • Someone shopping for an oversized bomber jacket that combines a few style details for an outerwear option that is versatile enough for everyday wear.

Who It’s Not Good For
  • Someone looking for a more fitted bomber jacket or those who want more color options.

When researching the best bomber jackets, we were most impressed by the overall style and fit of the A New Day Women’s Oversized Bomber Jacket from Target. This bomber jacket has a classic bomber jacket look with an oversize and slightly slouchy feel and we love that it combines subtle nods to other bomber jacket styles such as the quilted zipper, baseball collar, and raglan sleeves. While we wish the bomber jacket was available in a classic black color, it comes in a gorgeous green that feels reminiscent of the military-inspired bomber jackets while remaining a little more fashion-forward. The Target bomber jacket also comes in an inclusive fit range with sizes XS through 4XL available, so you can style it with petite or plus-size jeans. On top of that, its luxe-worthy design makes it look expensive but it costs under $50. 

Size Range: XS to 4XL | Material: Recycled polyester | Colors: Green, blue

Who It’s Good For
  • Someone looking for a classic black bomber jacket with a fantastic size range.

Who It’s Not Good For
  • Someone looking for a black bomber jacket that isn’t padded.

There’s something so timeless about a black bomber jacket — and the Alpha Industries MA-1 Bomber Jacket delivers on our expectations. In addition to black, this padded bomber jacket comes in six incredible colors and an even more impressive size range, making it one of the most inclusive styles on our list. The jacket is also fully reversible (so you essentially get two jackets in one) and is water-repellent, making it an excellent everyday pick for more rainy climates.

Size Range: XXS-5XL | Material: Nylon, polyester | Colors: Black, vintage gray, sage, blue, gunmetal, camo, khaki

Who It’s Good For
  • Someone looking for a bomber jacket made for outdoor adventures.

Who It’s Not Good For
  • Someone looking for an athletic bomber jacket with a sportier style.

For an athletic bomber jacket that is designed for outdoor adventures — but is still super stylish — the 3-Season Bomber Jacket from L.L. Bean is a must. Available in both women’s and men’s styles, this outdoorsy bomber jacket is made from recycled fabrics, comes in a few different color options, and is lined with super soft fleece for extra warmth. Plus, it’s designed as a lightweight wind and water-resistant jacket making it all the more versatile, too.

Size Range: XXS-XL | Material: Recycled polyester fleece, recycled nylon, polyester, spandex, acrylic | Colors: Navy, black, gray, clay

Who It’s Good For
  • Someone looking for a tailored fit that goes well with smart and casual outfits.

Who It’s Not Good For
  • Someone looking for a more relaxed fit.

An excellent style for winter, the Bonobos The Italian Wool Bomber is constructed from 75-percent wool with a quilted inner lining for added warmth. Available in grey and green herringbone, the jacket is the perfect style for smart and casual looks with its structured silhouette. The jacket also features an eye-catching collar that adds to the tailored feel, plus interior pockets (similar to a suit jacket) to keep the outside as sleek as possible.

Size Range: XS-2XL | Material: Wool, nylon | Colors: Camel latte, navy

Who It’s Good For
  • Someone looking for a bomber jacket with some slight edge.

Who It’s Not Good For
  • Someone looking for more subtle hardware detailing.

From fabric to lining, there are many ways to add detail to a bomber jacket. But, if you’re looking for something a little more subtle, hardware is where it’s at. For a bomber jacket with incredible hardware detailing, the Karl Lagerfeld Paris Exposed Pocket Bomber is our top pick. The jacket is made with shimmering silver zippers that are functional as well as fashionable (especially in the way they outline the oversized breast pockets), creating a nice contrast against the black satin fabric.

Size Range: S-2XL | Material: Nylon, polyester, spandex | Colors: Black

Who It’s Good For
  • Someone shopping for a reversible bomber jacket with different texture finishes.

Who It’s Not Good For
  • Someone looking for a reversible bomber jacket with different colors or prints.

The best thing about a reversible jacket is that you get two jackets in one. And, if you can’t decide between a classic smooth bomber jacket or a trendy quilted finish, the Frank and Oak Skyline Reversible Bomber is the best of both worlds. This jacket is sustainably made from recycled polyester derived from plastic bottles and features a classic bomber silhouette. We love this jacket because it looks like a lightweight layer, however, it’s ultra-warm with Thermore® Ecodown® insulation and can withstand temperatures between 14 and 41 degrees fahrenheit — a fashionable option if you're looking for a women's winter coat or jacket. Additionally, the reversible jacket is wind-resistant and water-repellent making it a highly functional option for your fall wardrobe.

Size Range: XS-XL | Material: Recycled polyester | Colors: Green, black, navy, orange

Who It’s Good For
  • Someone shopping for a classic varsity style jacket with and without patches.

Who It’s Not Good For
  • Someone who prefers a varsity jacket with specific sports team patches.

If you love the varsity jacket look and want a bomber jacket that puts a fashionable spin on the style, consider the Abercrombie & Fitch Varsity Bomber Jacket. This jacket comes in cream, burgundy, brown and green colorways with traditional varsity patches as well as brown and cream colors in a plain design for a more discrete preppy look. The jacket features vegan leather sleeves and is constructed from a polyester material with a wool-like finish. 

Size Range: XS-2XL | Material: Polyurethane, polyester, recycled polyester | Colors: Cream with patches, dark brown, cream, green, burgundy, brown

Who It’s Good For
  • Someone shopping for a dressy bomber jacket with lots of texture.

Who It’s Not Good For
  • Someone looking for a floral print bomber jacket in a more casual design.

Whether you’re shopping for a jacket for the office or going out, the Express Textured Oversized Rosette Bomber Jacket is an out-of-the-box floral pick. The black bomber jacket features three-dimensional rosettes, providing lots of texture all over. While we love it for a dressy option, its slouchy silhouette makes it possible to style it with a more casual yet elevated look so you can wear it with statement heels or comfortable flats.

Size Range: XS-XL | Material: Polyester | Colors: Black

Who It’s Good For
  • Someone who wants a statement-making collar.

Who It’s Not Good For
  • Someone who prefers a more monochromatic look.

A faux fur collar is a fun way to make a statement with any jacket, and while not typical for a bomber jacket, this option from ASOS will have everyone asking where you got it. We love the mix of a sporty acrylic fabric and a more formal collar for a high-low variation. The oversized silhouette is slightly padded with a quilted lining for added cozy vibes, making it an excellent choice for layering in cold weather — with a warm turtleneck, fleece-lined leggings, and winter boots — or as a more transitional piece for late fall.

Size Range: XS-L | Material: Modacrylic, polyester | Colors: Black

Who It’s Good For
  • Someone shopping for a gender-neutral bomber jacket with a versatile design.

Who It’s Not Good For
  • Someone looking for a bomber jacket made 100 percent from wool material (this one is a wool blend).

If you love the look of a wool bomber jacket but want something a little more lightweight, we love the H&M Regular Fit Wool-Blend Jacket which boasts a mix of polyester and wool. This jacket is technically part of the H&M men’s collection, however, it boasts a more gender-neutral design that feels classic yet modern. The jacket comes in two colors — dark brown and navy — and features a sleek silver front zipper.

Size Range: XS-3XL | Material: Polyester, wool | Colors: Dark brown, dark blue

Who It’s Good For
  • Someone looking for a reversible satin bomber jacket.

Who It’s Not Good For
  • Someone who wants a more subtle satin style.

Satin is another iconic bomber jacket fabric — and we adore this one from Straight to Hell. The Boogie Reversible Blue and Copper Bomber Jacket has tons of amazing details, including different colored paneling, diamond chain stitching for a quilted look, and a fun striped trim down the sleeves. Additionally, It has a fitted yet relaxed feel and is the perfect lightweight jacket for everyday, but also works well for a night out with its subtle glam aesthetic.

Size Range: XXS-4XL | Material: Polyester, spandex | Colors: Blue and copper, burgundy and gray, pink and cream

Who It’s Good For
  • Someone shopping for a sustainably made bomber jacket that is casual enough for everyday wear.

Who It’s Not Good For
  • Someone shopping for a more elevated bomber jacket in a dressy style.

Reformation is our go-to for sustainable fashion and their Marco Bomber Jacket embodies their dedication to eco-friendly fashion and stylish pieces. Constructed from regeneratively grown cotton, this bomber jacket is the ideal option for everyday wear thanks to its casual, cool, and effortless design. The jacket features a comfortable and slouchy fit that looks lived-in, giving it a vintage feel, too. And, the oversized design makes it a fantastic layering piece for the transitional fall season, paired with classic Chelsea boots.

Size Range: XS-XL | Material: Regeneratively grown cotton | Colors: Dark olive, marzipan

Who It’s Good For
  • Someone shopping for a stylish sequin blazer that can be dressed up for a night out.

Who It’s Not Good For
  • Someone who prefers something a little less flashy.

If you’re on the hunt for a bomber jacket to pair with a dressed up ensemble, there are plenty of sequin styles out there. After researching several options, we recommend the Cresay Women's Sequin Fitted Long Sleeve Zipper Blazer Bomber Jacket which features a classic bomber jacket style with tons of sparkle and pizzazz. The jacket is constructed from a lightweight yet durable polyester material and comes in four different sequin finishes, including rainbow multi, black, gold, and a gorgeous iridescent green. 

Size Range: S-3XL | Material: Polyester | Colors: Multi, black, gold, green

Who It’s Good For
  • Someone who needs a thick bomber jacket for frigid winter temperatures.

Who It’s Not Good For
  • Anyone looking for a more lightweight style or a longer silhouette.

It’s always worth investing in a high-quality and durable puffer jacket for winter. If you’re wanting a bomber jacket style to keep you cozy and stylish on frigid winter days, The Super Puff Bomber is worth every penny. This jacket features a cropped silhouette and is made from nylon and merino wool with responsibly sourced down and feather fill. Despite its functionality, the jacket is also stylish with its traditional bomber-style details, including the elastic cuffs, nylon facade, and classic color options (plus some). PEOPLE senior shopping editor Erika Reals can attest to the quality of Super Puff coats — she owns multiple styles and they are her go-to puffer for those frigid days.

Size Range: 2XS-XL | Material: Nylon, merino wool, responsibly sourced down | Colors: Tea green, matte pearl, red willow, modern taupe, kelp, catalina, and more

Who It’s Good For
  • Someone shopping for a classic bomber jacket style in a neutral houndstooth print.

Who It’s Not Good For
  • Someone who prefers a more cropped silhouette or those looking for more color options

This Old Navy Bomber Jacket is our top pick for the best houndstooth print and at the top of our wishlist this season. Despite being constructed from polyester, the Old Navy bomber jacket has a wool-like look and feel and boasts a timeless houndstooth print in neutral colors that go with just about anything and everything. It’s an excellent choice for those who love the look of a varsity bomber jacket but want something a little more elevated, and, if you feel like getting crafty, you could always add your own patches to it (we are currently obsessed with the Target x Rowing Blazers Letter Patches, which would go perfectly with this jacket). 

Size Range: XS-4XL | Material: Polyester | Colors: Houndstooth

Who It’s Good For
  • Someone shopping for a slouchy bomber-inspired jacket with a more bohemian feel.

Who It’s Not Good For
  • Someone looking for a velvet bomber jacket in a more traditional silhouette.

The Free People Good Game Bomber Jacket boasts a fashion-forward nod to the style with chic updates such as a shawl collar, quilted texture, and drapey fit. Available in a stunning rusty topaz color, this slouchy and oversized bomber jacket is an excellent option for those who prefer a jacket with a nod to the bomber silhouette while remaining a little more fashion-forward. And, since the jacket is quilted and constructed from a plush velvet material, it adds an extra layer of warmth with a slight puffer finish.

Size Range: XS-XL | Material: Polyester, rayon | Colors: Topaz

Who It’s Good For
  • Someone shopping for a bomber jacket with a nod to current fashion trends.

Who It’s Not Good For
  • Someone who prefers more color options as this jacket only comes in black and green.

Cargo and utility pockets are one of the biggest fashion trends of the fall season and this bomber jacket from Forever 21 features a fun nod to the style. Constructed from durable and lightweight polyester material, this jacket adds a layer of warmth in the transitional season while remaining breathable and comfortable for long wear. The jacket has a nice sheen finish to it, which makes it more versatile and allows you to dress it up or down, depending on your styling needs. 

Size Range: XS-XL | Material: Polyester | Colors: Black, green

How to Pick the Right Bomber Jacket 

Fit

As one of the top fashion trends of 2024, bomber jackets are everywhere now. And, the beauty of this jacket trend is that there is a style for everyone, thanks to the variety of fits found in bomber jacket construction. “A bomber jacket can be slightly oversized and have a loose vibe,” says Singla. She explains that the oversized look — which is displayed perfectly in the Collusion Unisex Oversized Woven Bomber Jacket — is a great option for those looking for more space to layer (especially in fall and winter when garments tend to get thicker). In addition to oversized bomber jackets, you’ll also find them in more fitted relaxed styles, as well as cropped silhouettes.

Fabric 

Fit isn’t the only way to customize a bomber jacket look. In addition to choosing what fit is best for you and your aesthetic, you’ll want to look at fabric, as bomber jackets come in a variety of textiles. You can find bomber jackets in silk, wool, velvet, sequin, lace, and leather, along with the classic polyester material with a slight sheen to it.

Versatility

Bomber jackets are naturally very versatile. However, it’s important to consider how and where you’ll wear a jacket before purchasing. If you are looking for a good, everyday bomber jacket that can withstand the elements, go for something with a slight puff and water-repellent fabric, such as the Alpha Industries MA-1 Bomber Jacket. For something a little dressier that you can still wear casually, a velvet bomber jacket like the Zara Velvet Bomber Jacket is a good way to go. 

Frequently Asked Questions

  • How should a bomber jacket fit?

    “A bomber jacket should not be a fitted jacket,” says Elysha Lenkin, a celebrity stylist who has worked with Tina Fey, Carrie Underwood, and Serena Williams, noting that the style traditionally has a more relaxed feel. With that said, you’ll also find oversized jackets, which can offer a lot of styling potential. When working with an oversized fit, Lenkin says to “keep proportions in mind” and “consider balancing the baggy jacket with a straight or slim silhouette on the bottom.”

  • Is a bomber jacket smart casual?

    According to Lenkin, this depends on what type of bomber jacket you wear, since it can come in so many different styles from the puffy classic version to a sleeker satin or silk. If you’re looking for a smart casual bomber jacket, she recommends going with a leather bomber as an alternative to a motorcycle jacket. “For guys, pair it with a button-down, trousers, and sneakers,” she advises. “Women can try it with a thin turtleneck top, straight-leg pants, and ankle boots,” she adds.

  • Why do they call it a bomber jacket?

    “One of the first things I learned when I started styling is that every iconic cultural piece [such as the bomber jacket] has a functional component to it,” says Kemph. “The bomber jacket was created by the United States Army during WWI and was designed and created to keep pilots warm in the uninsulated cockpits,” she adds. The name “bomber” comes from the fighter planes which the pilots who first wore the jackets operated.

  • Are bomber jackets still in?

    According to Samantha Brown, a professional and celebrity stylist, bomber jackets are in style for fall 2024. “Style them with other current trends like denim maxis,” she explains, noting that they look fresh when mixed with current trend items.


    Lenkin says it’s one of those items that never go out of style. “It’s a classic and will never be dated,” she explains. 

Take Our Word For It

Jessie Quinn is a contributing commerce writer for PEOPLE and has written for publications such as Byrdie, InStyle, The Spruce, NYLON, and more. When researching the best bomber jackets, Jessie spoke with three top fashion experts — Melina Kemph, Elysha Lenkin, and Naina Singla — to learn more about the over 100-year-old jacket style, plus what makes a truly great bomber jacket. She also conducted her own research by looking at a variety of styles and details, as well as analyzed durability, fit, and function of each.

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