Bolero is a short, open jacket which has a curved front opening and covers the back and shoulders. They usually have sleeves. Long sleeves are common but usually they cover the top of the arms atleast. A bolero is always short in length- waist-length or above the waist. It may be made of cotton, knit, denim, satin, silk, velvet, leather, and fur.
The bolero has a Latin American/Spanish lineage. The word ‘Bolero’ in Spanish language refers to a very lively, foot stamping dance. And the term in clothing refers to a very dressy short jacket worn by the dancers who performed this dance. So both the clothing and the dance have the same name.
You can wear a bolero jacket over a sleeveless dress – for adequate coverage or added warmth. Another advantage is the it avoids the boxy look of jackets. The curved shape in the front brings in a feminine look.
It usually doesnot come with fasteners.
The cropped nature of a bolero jacket emphasizes the waist, creating a flattering silhouette – that is the advantage that I see in this style of jacket. Another advantage is that the structure of a bolero jacket often emphasizes the shoulders, contributing to a defined silhouette
Different styles of Bolero jackets
The most popular bolero jackets are Denim bolero jackets, Crotchet ones, Satin or silk bolero, Leather bolero, Fur bolero, and Velvet bolero.
Wedding Dresses with a bolero jacket
Some time back silk/satin bolero jackets were very popular over wedding dresses. Many brides chose a bolero jacket to complement their wedding dress. Sleevess wedding dresses can be given a lace bolero. A bride can also wear a delicately embroidered bolero jacket over a plain dress.
An evening gown paired with a matching bolero jacket is a good choice as a formal wear.
Kids’ occasion wear dresses can be paired with a ruffled frilled bolero jacket for a dressy look.
A bolero-style sweater or a fur bolero can be a chic addition to a casual outfit, offering warmth and style. Wool bolero jackets are perfect for colder weather – no overwhelm like a full body coat. One winter look I like is a turtle neck sleeveless top with a bolero jacket.
Wearing a bolero jacket over a tube top can provide the outfit an interesting neckline and coverage.
History of Bolero
Boleros have been popular all through the years. The Zouave jacket, a precursor to the bolero, was initially a military garment before transitioning to fashion. The Zouave jacket was a military garment that originated in Algeria in the 19th century, with short cropped length and elaborate sleeves.
The picture below is Barbara Stanwyck in The Lady Eve (1941) wearing a very short bolero jacket.
It became popular again in the 1960s when it was worn with pants.
A bolero jacket is a more structured alternative to a casual shrug. Learn more about different styles of shrugs here.
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