Taking the Stand: Strong Shoulders

Let’s Review the Case: There’s no turning a cold shoulder on this trend ladies.

Big, bold, exaggerated shoulders didn’t just make a few appearances on the Fall ‘09 runways, they dominated them.

Strong shoulders have been creeping their way back into style for a couple seasons, but  with so many designers now on board, they might actually have a chance. (Refer to Exhibit A)

Now before all you children of the 80’s go writing this trend off as one only your mother would wear, listen to what experts are saying:

Harper’s Bazaar (Published: March 13, 2009)

But are they? You be the judge. Here’s a sampling from some of the boldest and most extravagant shoulders of the 80’s. (Refer to Exhibit B)

Compare them to merchandise now in top department stores. (Refer to Exhibit C)

Evidence:

Exhibit A

Exhibit B

[Image above from top left: Linda Evans, Joan Collins, "Designing Women" Cast and Heather Locklear]

Exhibit C

Images via Bergdorf Goodman

Members of The Pretty Committee: What’s your take? Have shoulder pads become modern chic or are they just repeat offenders?

Left-Tie: Todays version of the shoulder pads I like in moderation. They remind me of how cars over the years have become less boxy and more compact and stylish. I know a girl who wears the cloud shaped shoulder sleeves the kind that look like a Disney princess. She wears it too much but having  1 look like that mixed with some of the other newer sleeker shoulder pad can be really cute just don’t wear it everyday.

Trendspotter: I’m not really a fan. They only look cute on boyfriend blazers and even that can be easily messed up. I really dislike when they make a V silhouette as seen in the middle picture of Exhibit C.  Looks like she should be on the Star Ship Enterprise.  And the other two are ridiculous. who would wear those?

Lady Lex: I’m all for pumping up the volume with some shoulder pads. I think for some outfits and on certain body types, they do wonders. Just make sure you can’t seem ‘em, that looks bad. Sorry mom for teasing you so much about yours. I guess you really were on to something.

Jess: Strong shoulders are quite a statement.  I’m not sure if this is a good look for everyday.  I encourage some shoulder action on a blazer over a mini dress, but nothing like the 80’s.  Solid colors only please.  If the outfit is not put together carefully, shoulders can add 10 years to your age.  BEWARE…this is not a trend for everyone.

Daph: Yes, shoulder pads are rather bizzare for the women of my generation, this is what was in style when we were born. This reminds us of our parents and the early days of MTV, but elements of past generations always come back to influence future styles, so I say what the hell, why not? Go shoulder pad’s!  The can look rocker-esque with the right outfit.

Ashley: Hands down one of my biggest fears realized. As an “athletic” girl my shoulders have always been my nemesis and a trend that wants to make me look even more linebacker-ish just won’t do for this pretty committee member. That said, all you svelte and thin and narrowed shouldered ladies a little structure never hurt anybody so think about embracing a toned down version of the runway superstar to give your persona a little intimidation upgrade.

Posh Hippie: That Balmain dress is hot and some of their Sgt. Pepper jackets are pretty styling. The same principle applies now that revived this practice back in the ’80s. Shoulder pads can make your waist look skinnier and overall big shoulders give a certain empowered vibe– isn’t that why the Queen of England wore them back in the day? Still, other than for outwear, I will not start wearing shoulder padded garments with this trend. My shoulders are structured by the grace of God. But I approve of other people wearing them.

Verdict: Someone call the doctor we’ll be needing to reverse all those shoulder pad-ectomies we performed in the 90’s.

XOXO,
The Gals and Guy of INPT