Bombing around

Take inspiration from Sixties skinheads and post-modern punks, and don the only jacket you'll need all spring

Put your parker in a dust bag, hang up your puffer and retire your
biker to the back of your wardrobe because the only jacket you will want
to wear for the next six months is a bomber. 

Not to be confused with the sportier-looking baseball jacket or patch-heavy varsity jacket, whose American styles were creeping into British stores last summer, the bomber jacket has its roots firmly planted here.

Originally they were worn by the skinheads in the Sixties – nylon versions usually in green or navy blue went seamlessly with the uniform of Sta-Prest trousers, Ben Sherman shirts and braces, finished off with Dr Marten boots. Things have moved on a bit since then, with the jacket in question being re-invented into a surprisingly feminine and versatile item of clothing of spring.

A flurry of bombers were seen on the catwalks for the new season from the likes of Viktor and Rolf, Emilio Pucci and Zoe Jordan, with designers pairing them with printed separates, voluminous silk trousers and tight-fitting pencil skirts, with not a lace-up boot or brace in sight.

Elsewhere, Sandro, Zara, YMC, Warehouse and House of Hackney at Urban Outfitters have the trend covered with brilliant versions of the zip-up. Prints are evident in a subtle way with lace and floral, but equally as loud in zig-zag and stripes. Contrast sleeves too, which are popular with the biker jacket, work equally well with the bomber.

Try experimenting will fabrics such as light-weight silk in a vivid colour or go for opulence in the evening with an embroidered or embellished one.

Whistles has the most comprehensive collection available so far with a denim jacquard, textured leather and quilted versions.