By Sarah Woods
My immediate thought when I picked up a top recently and felt the shoulder pads inside was to put it right back down, without even trying it on. Since then, I have noticed tops and dresses with enhanced shoulders everywhere. Celebrities are wearing them, magazines are telling you to buy them and high street stores are selling them. So are shoulder pads making a comeback?
Shoulder pads are a fashion trend from the 80s that make many people cringe; this was definitely my initial reaction. But then I remembered that a lot of us were shocked when skinny jeans returned. Does this mean we should give shoulder pads another chance? After all, the new shoulder designs are a lot more desirable than those of a few decades ago.
Shoulder pads are ‘in’, but this doesn’t necessarily mean you have to actually wear shoulder pads. Many tops and dresses have detailing to the shoulder without actually having shoulder pads attached. Sequins or stud detailing to the shoulders can still draw attention to your outfit without enhancing your shoulders and giving you an undesired, broader look.
However, if you feel you want to go for the full on statement shoulder, then go for it in style! Remember to choose pieces that are in fashion now, and not to go looking through your mum’s old wardrobe. Lipsy have done a fantastic range of exaggerated-shouldered dresses that will make you look and feel stunning.
Structured shoulders can transform your shape, and give you a more sophisticated, edgier look. For example, a black body con dress could stand out a lot more by adding shoulder pads or simply a few ruffles. Whatever you choose, you’re going to be bang on trend and look a lot more striking.
The shoulder-pad-look has changed from what it used to be back in the 80s (thank god!) and it looks good. Structured shoulders give you a sexy silhouette, perfect for those nights out coming up as we approach Christmas. Maybe they won’t stay around forever, but for right now, they’re back.