It’s that time again.

Tis the season to go bomb diggity.

 

Now, if you’re feeling somewhat inclined to make a sporty statement, perhaps throw in a hint or three of flirt girl even, and display some of that unique personality (and why wouldn’t you), a light jacket is warranted.  More commonly known as the bomber, it’s essentially the lightweight spinoff of a varsity coat peppered with oodles of attitude and healthy doses of street gang chic.  In these times of great uncertainty, where change comes at lightning speed, familiarity has a way of comforting us.  And who doesn’t love a good remix of a classic?

No longer confined by its military roots (as clearly evident from escalating use of feminine colours and motifs), the bomber has truly evolved into a fashion staple.  One found draped across the shoulders of nearly everyone who gives any thought to what they wear. And I believe I can safely include the vast majority of us within that cluster.

Much more than merely an added layer, bomber jackets today are sophisticated vessels with which savvy dressers communicate feelings.  Moods.  Our stance on any given topic, even.  Such is the power of clothes.  I mean, we all make snap judgements about the people we meet based on what they’re wearing, correct?  She looks friendly.  He looks successful.  She seems like such a tramp.  He doesn’t look very confident.  Sound familiar?

Our clothes say a great deal about who we are and can signal volumes of socially important things to others, even if the impression is actually unfounded.

WEARER BEWARE!!!

Back to the bomber.

Reminiscent of military pilot style, it’s an easy, peasy perfect for those on-the-go-moments item of clothing.  Not to mention it’s a really good way to rock the athleisure trend while still looking pulled together (and decidedly not like you’re coming straight from the gym).  For those of us who indulge in a spot of sartorial laziness ever so often, the bomber is quite the godsend, I tell you. 

Endlessly versatile, and rather flattering thanks to its shape, the humble bomber can be dressed up with a preppy shirt and tie just as easily as it can be thrown on with jeans and sneakers (or dress).  As clearly evidenced from the photos you’ll be privy to further down the post.

DON'T WE ALL LOVE A TOUCH OF JAMES DEAN?

And, let’s face it, there’s an almost palpable air of rebellion that comes with wearing a bomber which gets to me each and every single time.  Afterall, it is the jacket of choice for presidents and powerful women and music moguls and rebels alike.  I doubt I’d be stretching the truth when I proclaim the bomber to be the essence of enduring style.

Come hold my hand now, and take a look at what each individual member of The Fab 40s has put together in accordance with this month’s theme of Bomber Jackets.  I promise you a visually entertaining time.

“A” may be for “Ann” and “K” for “Krembs” but in my books, “A” is also for “amazing” and “awesome” and “K” for “kickass“.  Those words sum up my friend here perfectly.  And bearing testimony to that is her superwoman get-up of varsity bomber (in fiery red, no less) paired with the classic striped tee and too-cool-for-words appliquéd jeans (she did this herself, incidentally).  Peer closer and discover how those denim stars are echoed in her equally spectacular kicks.

In all honesty, Diane’s outfit makes me yearn for Peach Cobbler.  Perhaps it’s the smooth lines of her delectable bomber.  Or the delicate waterfall ripples of that pleated midi skirt which brings to (my) mind rivulets of syrup, or melted ice cream (a woman can hope).  Wait, maybe, just maybe, it’s the adorable cropped top with that joyous profusion of orange sprinkles blossoms.  Or those thoroughly creamy sneakers she’s got on.

Remember my musing aloud how I thought Jennie had gone from pretty and preppy to independent and opinionated?  Well, I haven’t changed my mind BUT this month, I’m seeing the classic, glam side of this lady, and I like it!!  A soft floral bomber in the most feminine of water colours goes the fancy route when worn over the epitome of timeless elegance, the LBD.  And in case you thought her edge was missing, check out the studs on those pumps.

Mary’s bomber is an absolute study in gorgeousness.  It’s colour-blocking executed on an entirely different level in that the effect is (simultaneously) subtle yet nonetheless dramatic.  I mean, it’s corals and pinks and navy.  And wouldn’t you concur the jacquard-esque feel of that fabric is a texture simply begging to be touched?  And so unusual for a bomber.  As always the case with this lady, the overall effect is one of a very womanly silhouette.

Our resident pattern guru does not disappoint with this delightful bomber.  An homage to the beauty of flora and fauna, the print is delicate and wispy, completely in tandem with Sam’s personality and demeanour.  Yet that slight touch of sass we’ve all come to associate with her is never too far away.  In this instance, focus your attention on those black nails.  Charmingly put together, I’d say this is an outfit across all seasons.

I’m not certain how she pulled it off with something as straitlaced as a bomber but Veronica’s is one va va vroom outfit.  Is it because that military green is offset by what’s clearly a very sexy black jumpsuit?  The contrast making for one hell of a sexy statement?  Or does the secret lie in her attitude?  With those gradient sunnies and that bright orange lip?  Honestly, I’m going to go for broke and say it’s the entire package.

And now, for our guest blogger this month. I was elated when Grace agreed to join us.  I’ve loved her from afar for ages, always admiring her colour choices.  This woman mixes brights with the deftest of hands, never ever appearing tacky, no.  Always classy, always graceful (see what I did there?).  I’ve nothing but the deepest respect for how far she’s come in the social media world (Grace hosts a TV show, my friends) and I can’t wait to see how much brighter her star will shine.  In the interim, however, I’ll placate myself by coveting her bag (so flirt with the tassel) and her bomber (an absolute cornucopia of blooms).

And there’s me.  In something silky and colourful and embroidered all over.  An embroidered bomber jacket.  Now that’s an ironic statement if I ever did see one.  There’s something special about this jacket that I can’t quite put my finger on.  Is it the contrast of ornate embroidery upon a sporty silhouette?  Or is it the statement-making colours and unique detailing?  Or the juxtaposition of an all-American palette interlaced with chinoiserie motifs?

ECCENTRIC AND ECLECTIC, THAT'S ME

Whatever your poison when it comes to bomber jackets, they’re clearly here to stay.  Both on the runways as well as on the streets.  And alleluia for that.

Love, Sheela

p/s my photos by Sofia Touassa

I link up here.