TAKE FLIGHT

A NEW LOOK FOR THE BOMBER JACKET BY LISA ANTONUCCI

e “bomber jacket,” originally known as “ ight jackets,” were created by the U.S. Army Aviation Clothing Board in 1917 to keep World War I pilots warm in the uninsulated, openair cockpits of the early ghter planes. ese heavy-duty pieces featured high wraparound collars, zipper closures with wind aps, snug cu s and waists, and some were fringed and lined with fur.

It was between the two World Wars that ight-jacket design evolved alongside aviation advancements. With cockpits becoming closed, narrower, and encumbered with technology, new styles were introduced— namely, the U.S. Army’s leather Type A-1 in 1927 and the A-2 in 1931. e styles had knitted waistband and cu s, which not only insulated the jacket from cold air but also gave it a particularly attering t, sitting high on the waist.

Also with origins dating back to the 1930s is the U.S. Navy’s G-1 style, designed to parallel the Air Corps’ A-2. e G-2 was produced until 1978, when the U.S. Congress canceled it due to its tremendous popular appeal, which was overwhelming the Navy’s supply system. e jackets have become symbols of honor, adventure, and style, with Hollywood lms like “Top Gun” and the 2022 blockbuster sequel, “Top Gun: Maverick,” putting the bomber front and center for fashion a cionados and collectors alike.

We’ve rounded up a selection of bomberinspired jackets and apparel from several Park City-area boutiques, sure to help you rediscover this always-in-fashion trend, just in time for this winter season.

CHAMMOMILE

Talia Jacket by Sea-NY

For an unexpected and feminine take on the bomber, the Talia Jacket provides a whimsical version with a vintage, quilted aesthetic featuring oral, bandana-print fabric in baby blue and pink. Navy-and-red starburst quilt accents give the jacket an Americana charm while the solid-black ribbed cu s, waist and baseball collar bring that letterman-jacket vibe. e Talia Jacket is also a piece that is distinctively Sea — combining that vintage feeling with more modern, clean styles that create quietly inviting and elegantly balanced pieces. Sea is known for its spin on classic silhouettes with its distinctive use of lace, embroidery, knits, and technical fabrics that result in collections that are at once both e ortless and romantic.

Stripes Galore Bomber Cardigan, Delicate Brioche Cardigan by Maiami

With their de ned wrist cu s and waistbands, clean necklines, bell sleeves and cropped lengths, these hand-knitted sweaters are the so est versions of the bomber that we’ve seen this season. e bold stripes and eye-catching color combinations of the “Stripes Galore Bomber” make this u y mohair cardigan a standout all winter, while the delicateness of the “Brioche” cardigan gives it a super luxurious feel. “Brioche” refers to a special kind of knitting stitch that adds an extraordinary three-dimensional depth to this design. e cardigans are representative of the Maiami brand, which brings a modern perspective on the traditional cra of knitting. eir modern aesthetic is represented in Maiami’s distinct style, which features unexpected colors and combinations, and luxurious yarns. Each of their hand-knitted products re ects the time and care invested in creating beautifully cra ed products with luxury that’s rooted in the handmade.

COLE SPORT

Women’s Tilly Jacket by Parajumpers

Designed to elevate your “every day,” the Tilly Jacket is a luxurious hooded pu er that features a high-shine nishing and diminishes all fear of the elements in style. Constructed from a high-density ta eta and windproof nylon with water repellant treatment, this bomber is lled with insulating duck down and features elasticized cu s and hem, a fulllength zip front, drawstrings at the hood, and the iconic Parajumpers tab at the neckline. Pair this oversized bomber with a comfy activewear set and trainers for a sleek yet functional look.

Inspired by an encounter with a serving member of the 210th Rescue Squadron, who are highly trained for extreme rescues and recoveries in the wildest, most remote and hostile corners of the globe, the Parajumpers brand prides itself on innovative outerwear collections with highly technological components, “created with passion to upskill your life.”

SALVAGED SISTERS

Upcycled, one-of-a-kind jackets

Taking advantage of two fashion trends at the same time, jackets from local makers Mary Mertes and Ann Erickson are o en authentic military issue and have the added bonus of being upcycled. e real-life sisters and Utah residents call themselves “Salvaged Sisters,” giving a nod to their family ties and mutual love of thri ing, which they were both able to embrace upon retiring from “corporate America” in 2021. But while their jackets might be enjoying a second life, there’s nothing second-rate about these wearable creations.

For the “Silk Dragon” jacket, the green canvas shell is actually the top half of a military ight suit, remade into a jacket with cashmere cu s and matching cashmere waistband. Silky, Asian-print appliqués and accents from a long robe that was cut to showcase the beauty of each piece. e blue trim also is from a deconstructed military jumpsuit, with additional trim pieces from a deconstructed Indian saree, and a vintage Boy Scout patch for added air. For the “Quilted Beauty,” the thri ed black jacket is adorned with plaid fabric from an available remnant, parts of a deconstructed military backpack, a piece of a military blanket, several military patches, and topped with hand embroidery.

All Salvaged Sisters designs are one of a kind, and Mertes estimates it takes 2-3 hours for the creation process for each jacket followed by 6-10 hours of labor. Current inventory is constantly changing and found online at salvagedsisters.com, although custom ordering options are available and include personalizing the jacket to include a favorite color, hobby, band, or sports team.

CHRISTY SPORTS

Women’s Esla Bomber Jacket by prAna

You don’t have to be a maverick to wear a bomber jacket, but you’ll always be on-trend. And no more so than while sporting this uber-stylish Esla Bomber Jacket for women by prAna. Known for their sustainably sourced and fair-trade certi ed apparel, prAna is a brand you’ll feel good about wearing—and this is a jacket you’ll feel good wearing everywhere. row it on with leggings for a chilly morning, or pair with your favorite jeans. is jacket is made from earth-friendly materials that lessen the load on our planet, even while delivering water resistance and plenty of performance.

Jacket details include a center front zip with ultra-suede pull tab and rivet, rib-knit collar, bottom hem and sleeve cu , zip-entry hand pockets with brushed tricot lining, hanger loop, recycled plastic bar logo, PFAS-free durable water repellent (DWR) and bluesign® approved materials.

Women’s Rock Bomber Jacket by RH+

e perfect jacket for this winter’s slopeside après-ski gatherings, the Rock Bomber has a seriously fashion-forward cut featuring a slightly cropped hemline, a leaner t through the core, attering bell sleeves and an asymmetric zipper. How cool is that? And don’t worry— this insulated bomber is just as well-suited for the slopes as it is apres: It’s waterproof, has a snow skirt, is seam sealed, and is w-a-r-m. RH+ prides itself on using technical, high-performing materials while also bringing elegance to its designs.