Shearling Flight & Aviator Leather Jackets

Season after season, there is always one trendy piece that Parisians are the most interested in investing in, and it is the shearling flight or aviator leather jacket. Going back in history, we can trace how this one-time aviation garment became one of the most iconic military items of all time for both the military as well as civilians: "In the beginning of the 20th century leather was believed to be the strongest material option to combat the harsh elements, hence, the issue was solved by long heavy-duty leather coats worn by the Royal Flying Corps in Belgium and France around 1915." (East West Army)

It is thought that the first sheepskin flying jacket was designed and manufactured by Leslie Irvin, who in 1926, set up a manufacturing company in the United Kingdom. He would become the main supplier of flying jackets to the Royal Air Force during most of World War II. Fast forward to modern times. The other day, while I was talking to a friend at Café Nemours, people watching and enjoying a glass of wine, the topic of our favorite aviator jackets came up. And so, I thought about sharing with you today a few great shopping options in case you're looking for one of your own...