Aviator Jackets

 

If you are to invest in one new item for Autumn/Winter 2010, it's got to be an aviator inspired piece. And with warm coats being a fashion focus this season (thank god, when you live in Aberdeen!), your best bet is an aviator jacket. The style has been all over the catwalks, in sheepskin, leather, and my favourite - shearling. Designers including Burberry Porsum and Wunderkind have gone mad for the style, and the high street has followed suit, with purse friendly options from Topshop, Asos and even Tesco. The collection made by Matalan sold out within hours – can’t say I ever imagined there'd be fashionista's queueing outside Matalan to purchase their fashion essentials!

 

The trend first appeared back in the 1920's, when Leslie Irvine designed the first classic sheepskin flying jacket. However, it was not until WW2 that the jacket became a fashion piece, worn to demonstrate adventure and bravery throughout the tougher times. In the 1980's, with the popularity of Tom Cruise in Top Gear, the jacket feautred a comeback. However, it is now in 2010 (the 70th anniversary of the Battle of Britain) that the style has really launched (no pun intended!). The more recent ones have, of course, been updated from the functional 1920s style; now shaped and tailored to flatter a feminine figure.

 

The jacket is very versatile- think of it as a winter alternative to a leather rock chick coat. Most popular are the neutral brown and beige tones, meaning they go with basically any colour. Wear a military inspired one with skinny jeans and biker boots for an edgy feel, or team a boho inspired style with a pretty tea dress for much needed warmth. I think they look best without a scarf, as the nicest ones have gorgeous collars that should not be covered. Instead, accessorise with a cute hat and some snug boots.

The best part is, you can justify buying this one as “an investement piece”. After this Winter, store it in the back of your wardrobe - this is a trend that will always come round again, and the style betters with age. In my books, that equates to a guilt free splurge!

xox