Aviator jackets, are on trend and having a fashion moment. They are also referred to as flight jackets, or sherpa and shearling jackets. Despite their on trend integrity, to my eye these are versatile, iconic classic toppers that know no bounds. They’re usually neutral, and browns and black are popular. Fits are fluid or oversized across a range of lengths. The sherpa or shearling trim is contrasting or self-colour. The idea is to wear them with anything and everything – dressy or casual. With trousers, casual pants, jeans, jorts, skirts, dresses, and jumpsuits. The trend aligns with a broader fashion movement that embraces higher quality vintage and heritage-inspired wardrobe pieces with longevity. There is a unisex integrity to them too.
Some versions are more aviator-eque than aviator. Some are earthy, and some are harder edged. Prices vary considerably depending on what the toppers are made of. Real leather and shearling versions are pricier than faux fur and sherpa versions. The collection shows a range of examples.
Personally, I love this trend, although I wear aviator jackets whether they are on trend or not. They always look smashing, to my eye. I particularly love that they are an iconic classic look with longevity. Texture-rich, comfy, warm, robust, practical, and a nod to ’80s Top Gun fabness (I’m a huge ‘80s fan). I have a red aviator-esque jacket that is nine years old, and it’s a favourite. An absolute workhorse, and showing wear on the inside. That’s okay because it looks pristine on the outside. It’s a little longer than I typically wear in a jacket, yet it works flawlessly. This year at the Nordstrom Anniversary Sale, I bought a classic dark brown aviator with oatmeal trim from Ralph Lauren. The high contrast light trim is what sold the dark brown aviator to me. It’s stunning quality, feels magical, a little shorter than the red, and I’ll be wearing the heck out of it very soon. I can see it with my jeans, dressy trousers, Winter frocks, and big dressy skirts. Neither aviator is oversized. Simply very fluid, and easy to layer over roomier tops. I modeled the new RL aviator for our forum.
Here are some casual outfits with dark brown aviators. Chocolate brown is THE trend of the year, and aviators are typically dark brown. The colour and silhouette are a match made in heaven. If ever there was an authentic casual jacket to trend in the era of dark brown – it’s an aviator. Spot on.
Over to you. What do you think of this trend? Do you wear aviator, or aviator-esque jackets?
