The history behind the evolution of G-1 bomber apparel

The initial purpose for designing flight and bomber jackets was to provide lightweight yet practical apparel to the military. Flight jackets have been going through evolution since their advent to the modern day. Despite their purely utilitarian genesis, bomber jackets are now a fashion icon.
They have an unmatchable timeless appeal allowing them to survive through generations of sartorial trends. What is the story behind this epic piece of clothing? And how did it journey from being a pilot’s best friend to our everyday wardrobes? This and more interesting tidbits about bomber apparel will be explored here today.

How did bomber jackets came into being?

During the First World War and even before it, pilots had to fly in open cockpits. The aviators had to wear any clothing available to them for keeping them warm and protected when in the air. Most of them had to pay for these pieces with their own finances. As apart from the standard uniform, service-issued clothing was not a concept till then.
Belgium and France were the first to provide their Royal Flying Corps with calf-
Length naval aviator flight jackets in 1915. Military tailoring in the rest of the world was quick to pick up the trend. However, it was as far ahead as 1917 when the U.S. finally established its official Aviation Clothing Board. This marked the birth of a signature style of flight jackets which we can recognize to this day.
The jackets distributed by the ACB had a specific design. They were heavy-duty to especially weather the harshness of climate and altitude. The high collars, thick wind flaps, zipper closures, and snug cuffs made the ordeals of a flight endurable for an aviator. Some even came with added embellishments like fringed edges or fur lining. This was how the design of a standard bomber jacket took form.

The G-1

It’s not an exaggeration when we say that the G1 bomber jacket is one of the most iconic designs of all time. Despite being a formal military regulation clothing, it channels a rebellious aura. A point further reflected by being the style choice of Tom Cruise’s Maverick in the 1980’s classic Top Gun.
G1’s design first came to light in the late 1930s. It took certain elements from A2, the Army Air Force jacket, but added distinguishable alterations lending G-1 its unique identity. The details consisted of front pockets with buttoned flaps, a fur collar, and a bi-swing back panel for movement.
The first of these designs was labeled the M422. A second variation appeared in 1941 called the M422a. The prominent features of both these jackets included:
Dark brown or rust
Goatskin leather
Two buttoned front flap pockets
The classic short body
In the start, the jacket was strictly a US Navy G1 jacket. But later on, the trend was picked up by a group of American pilots, the American Volunteer Group. They are recognized in history and popular fiction as the Flying Tigers. Their battlegrounds were established in Burma, India, and China following Pearl Harbor, attracting aviators from Marines, Navy, and the Army. The pilots’ preference for the G-1 jacket was a milestone in the legendary reputation carved for it over the years.
M422a was in the midst of all activities through the majority of WWII. From submarine hunting in the Atlantic to dogfights skimming over the Pacific, the jacket became a symbol of honor. Even after the conflict ended in 1945, the jackets were still worn by ex-military personnel as everyday wear. That is how it began to seep into the world of fashion.
From sailing to motorbike cruising, G-1 became the choice of apparel. Not only was that due to its practicality but because, for the common man, it represented adventure, courage, and masculinity. Making its way into Hollywood wardrobes It further cemented itself as a must-have for the public.

G-1’s foray into modern fashion

With its decades of existence, G-1 is now similar to a seasoned veteran, trading in his heavy medals and official stiffness for an ordinary life. The original features of the jacket have gone through numerous variations under the clever hands of fashion designers. The minor tweaks and twists have made it more accommodating for the requirements and style of the modern-day.
The fit, for example, is often altered to a trimmer and sleeker cut. So much in fact that it resembles a more rugged sibling of a sportscoat. Narrowed shoulders give a more tapered and sharp appearance to the wearer’s figure. The shearling collars are also usually removable so you can customize the look to your liking. These subtle changes have transformed the military issue piece into a coveted exquisitely tailored outerwear.
Today, Military parade jackets are synonymous with the height of style. It represents your distinct taste in fashion and never fails in helping you make a memorable impression. A well-fitted G-1 has this trick of looking put-together with any outfit you wear underneath. Regardless of gender, it will give a legendary groove to any skirt, trouser, pants, or top you wear over. Even if it’s thrown on over a dress and pair of boots, the ladies can turn heads.
We highly recommend investing in a G-1 bomber because of its versatility and sustainability. It unfailingly survived through the rising and falling trends of fashion and emerged unscathed still holding its superior position. An exemplary collection of outerwear is considered incomplete without it. Fashion gurus continue to bring out better, bigger, and bolder ways to style this piece all the time.
With this rich and exciting back story, it’s no wonder that G1 jackets are such a rage. They are not merely a piece of clothing but associated with many cultural and sociological symbols. If you have decided to add them to your wardrobe as well, then reach out to us immediately. Browse through our amazing, impeccably tailored pieces which can elevate your choice of daily wear like no other. Rest assured, the quality and value of our products is never compromised and always cater to your personal requirements.