As fashion month culminates in Paris and our shopping carts overflow after being overfed style inspiration, I continue taking note of consistencies both on and off the runways. I scroll through runway shots and street style photos like it's my job (because it is) and take note of a trend that is both unsurprising in that it's a classic staple in a classic silhouette, and surprising in that it's literally everywhere. I'm left asking: does everyone in Paris own a leather bomber jacket? And the natural follow up: do I need one too?
Rick Owens Spring/Summer 2026
Courtesy of Rick Owens
Enfants Riches Déprimés Spring/Summer 2026
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For their Spring/Summer 2026 collections, designers like Rick Owens, Rabanne, Casablanca, Enfants Riches Déprimés, and Torishéju all featured leather bomber jackets on their Paris runways with personal touches and unique details: racer stripes, zippers, embellishments, and more. Meanwhile, attendees also turned to the staple time after time and with styling choices that highlight the jacket's versatility: a cropped silhouette with sweatpants, a bomber with distinct pocket detailing over a more dressed up look, and an oversized jacket with a simple white tee and black jeans.
Rabanne Spring/Summer 2026
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Casablanca Spring/Summer 2026
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As is surprisingly the case with a lot of trends, the bomber jacket (characterized by their fitted waistbands and cuffs) were born out of practicality rather than style. During the '20s and '30s, bomber jackets kept pilots in open-air cockpits warm throughout both World Wars. The style was born in a heavy leather with different and lighter iterations (nylon, for example) closely following. And then, eventually, a tale as old as time occurred: the bomber jacket was appropriated by Hollywood. James Dean, 50's and 60's icon and heartthrob, wore bomber jackets as a part of his signature look. Soon, bomber jackets were embraced in rock and roll subcultures, made noticeable appearances in films such as "Top Gun", were popular in hip-hop fashion in the '90s, and the rest is history.
Now, Paris Fashion Week has certified the bomber jacket (leather, in particular) as a closet staple that can transcend era, season, and aesthetic.
If you're in the market for one, shop some of the best leather bomber picks below.
