Bomber

nounStandard termTextiles

A short waist-length outerwear jacket featuring a gathered or ribbed waistband and matching cuffs.

A casual outerwear garment modeled after historic military flight jackets. It is characterized by a cropped length that ends at the natural waist, complete with a ribbed elastic or knit waistband and matching cuffs to seal out wind. The body is typically cut full to allow layering and ease of movement, often featuring a zippered front and a low knit collar.

Heard on the job

We need to adjust the pattern on this bomber because the ribbed hem is riding up too high when the wearer raises their arms.

Insider tip

The classic silhouette relies on the contrast between the bloused body and the snug ribbed hem, so selecting a rib knit with excellent stretch recovery is essential.

Also heard as

  • bomber jacket
  • flight jacket