Varsity jackets and bomber jackets: same vibe, right? Not exactly. These two classics might seem similar, but their differences run more profound than you’d think. From the fabrics they’re made off to their unique designs, even their backstories in street fashion take separate turns.
One has been adored by youth and adults alike, while the other has military roots. However, both became very trendy in the rebellion-fashion trend after the 1950s. Are you curious which one best suits your style? This guide will tell you which one to choose for you.
What is a Bomber Jacket?
The bomber jacket originated in World War I as a military aviation garment designed to warm pilots in open cockpit planes. It has a front zipper, elastic cuffs, and a short waist length with a snug waistband. Bomber jackets are available in many materials, such as leather and nylon, and in numerous colors, such as sage green, black, brown, and white.
What is a Varsity Jacket?
The varsity jacket was first worn in 1865 at Harward University. It was awarded to the top players on the baseball team with the “H” letter embroidered on the front. It’s a dual-color sports jacket, especially worn by young people, but is perfectly suitable and stylish for both genders.
Characteristics of Bomber Jackets
- Fit: Close to the body with elastic cuffs and waistband and also comes in oversized design.
- Materials: Made from leather, nylon, suede, satin, cotton, polyester and other materials.
- Design: Ideal for warmth and versatile enough to be worn with various outfits (some materials are good for summer, too)
- Heavy or Lightweight: It’s available in heavy and lightweight materials. You can select one based on your preferences or the season you want to wear it.
Characteristics of Varsity Jackets
Materials: After several design changes throughout history, the varsity jacket has a contrasting-colored wool, polyester, or fleece body with leather, faux leather, or denim sleeves and a ribbed collar and cuffs. It is also available in all-over wool or cotton fabric.
Design Elements: Adorned with letters, patches, and numbers in school or team colors, representing athletic achievements and team spirit or just for design.
Types of Bomber Jackets
- Nylon Bomber Jacket: They’re made from nylon material; these jackets are lightweight protect from water and give insulation.
- Cropped bomber jacket: Its waist-length cut pairs perfectly with high-waisted pants and gives a stylish edge to any outfit for women.
- Satin bomber jacket: Same as a classic bomber jacket with a stylish silhouette but comes with glossy, shiny, and luxurious satin fabric that’ll make you stand out.
- Oversized bomber jacket: This one is deliberately made larger in size for style, and it can give you an effortless, chic, and laid-back look you’ll love.
- Quilted bomber jacket: Comes with a quilted pattern that increases warmth for winter and also makes the jacket look good on the wearer.
- Bomber jacket with hood: Comes with a hood for more style and warmth for your head and ears too.
- Military style, B3, A2 bomber jackets: The classic bomber jackets from World War 1 and World War 2 are still available today. They give edgy rebellion style, functionality, and the comfort of warmth.
Types of Varsity Jackets
- Classic Varsity Jacket: Standard classic design with a wool body and leather sleeves.
- Custom Varsity Jackets: You can order your custom-designed varsity jacket with the logos and designs you can choose from.
- Suede varsity jacket: It has the same varsity jacket design, but it’s made of suede leather that’s soft, and breathable, with a tanned color that looks unique and stylish.
- Corduroy Varsity Jacket: It’s made of corduroy material with a wale texture of raised parallel lines. It looks unique and great because of its unique texture and also has an insulation feature to keep you warm.
- Cropped Varsity Jacket: Like the cropped bomber jacket, a varsity jacket is also available in cropped waist-length for women. You can opt for it to look more edgy and chic.
Key Differences Between Bomber Jacket and Varsity Jacket:
Bomber and varsity jackets have unique features that suit different preferences and occasions. Here’s a straightforward comparison to help you decide which might be best for you:
Seasonal Suitability:
- Bomber Jackets: Lightweight variants are suitable for cooler summer evenings and can be worn year-round. Heavier versions are better for fall and winter.
- Varsity Jackets: Best for fall and early winter due to their warmth. They might be warm for summer wear, but they are also available in lighter variants.
Style and Appearance:
- Bomber Jackets: Known for a sleek, minimalist look, often in solid colors like black, navy, or olive. You can wear them formally or casually.
- Varsity Jackets: They have stylish, bold colors, and contrasting sleeves and often include letters or patches with a sporty and youthful appearance.
Comfort and Fit:
- Bomber Jackets: Generally lightweight and designed for ease of movement. Comfort can vary based on the materials used.
- Varsity Jackets: Typically heavier due to materials like wool and leather with substantial warmth and a snug fit.
Variety and Options:
- Bomber Jackets: Available in various styles and materials such as cropped, oversized, nylon, leather, and more to suit different needs and tastes.
- Varsity Jackets: They are available in many color contrasts and fabric material combinations and can be customized with different letters and patches. You can also buy them in cropped and oversized designs.
Occasions and Versatility
- Bomber Jacket: It can be worn casually or on semi-formal occasions.
- Varsity Jacket: Best for casual events like college activities or sports games or for running errands or having adventures with friends outdoors, it’s usually paired with jeans and sneakers.
Fit and Silhouette
- Bomber Jacket: Slim fit, tailored look that shows off the body.
- Varsity Jacket: Casual, relaxed fit for comfort and movement.
Which One Should You Buy?
Both bomber and varsity jackets have their strengths. The bomber jacket is sleek and versatile, great for any occasion. The varsity jacket, on the other hand, has a youthful, casual appeal. It’s great for everyday wear and events like sports games, and school and college routines.
- Choose a bomber jacket: if you prefer a versatile, minimalist style for multiple occasions and seasons.
- Opt for a varsity jacket: if you’re looking for a warm, sporty jacket with bold colors and a youthful vibe, especially for cooler weather.
But if you are a true fashionista and love shopping for fashionable apparel, both of these jackets deserve to be in your wardrobe so you can wear them based on your mood and occasion!
