BOMBERS & BALLOONS

Military-core fashion making a resurgence once again.

Following a decade of popularity disappearing into the fashion archives, Y2K and vintage fashion is making a comeback again among fashion influencers and celebrities with bomber jackets and balloon pants being two key items.

A Brief History on Bomber Jackets Military personnel - pilots in particular - wore flight jackets as a protective measure to keep warm in early-age fighter plane cockpits where chilly air gushed into their faces. Throughout time, bomber jackets became increasingly popular - this is evident in pop culture references such as James Dean wearing one in Rebel Without A Cause and Ryan Gosling wearing one in DriveRebel Without A Cause and Drive. Bomber jackets are usually cropped with a boxy fit - loose shoulders and sleeves to allow arm movement.

Balloon for the Buffoon

Like the bomber jacket, balloon pants were also worn by military soldiers. French soldiers were inspired when they saw North African locals wearing roomy and loose-fitting pants in the desert, so they incorporated the silhouette into their uniforms. Modern day fashion has seen celebrities like Rihanna and Jennifer Lopez wearing balloon pants as part of their outfits, making them a standout piece.

Outfit breakdown:

Outer: 1017 ALYX 9SM, Halcyon BLVD bomber jacket (@alyxstudio)

Bottoms: Thrifted parachute pants (@ashita_ga_aru)

Footwear: Nike Dunk High 'Syracuse 2021) (@nike)

Cap: Y-3 trucker hat (@adidasy3) Bag: Thrifted military bag (@shibuigarm)

The Silhouette My bomber jacket is from Matthew M. Williams' brand 1017 ALYX 9SM, which is the MA-1 version. Due to its thickness, the jacket is meant to be worn in cold weather, but it can also be worn in lecture halls, cinemas, and other places with cold air conditioning. The 'camo' pattern of the fabric gives off a rugged, edgy look while providing comfort. The balloon pants were thrifted from a vintage store and it provides additional ruggedness to the washed-out look.