How to rock shoulder pads

What looks to be a big trend is anything to do with the shoulder. We’re talking shoulder pads, shoulder embellishment, anything to do with exaggeration of the shoulder. It’s definitely a trend people are scared to embrace. But why? There’s nothing scary about shoulder pads. Perhaps most people are scared to look like a footballer, but, the truth is, when worn properly, the shoulder pad can be one of the most flattering trends (regardless that it was an ’80s trend!).

The trick to embracing this trend is to follow some shoulder-rules. Once you learn how to wear this trend correctly, you’ll be wondering why you were ever scared in the first place.

Rule 1: Shoulder pads should be the focal point of the outfit. If you’re working shoulder pads, it’s important not to go overboard with any other piece of the outfit. Simple ways to wear shoulder pads include in a blazer or jacket (teamed with skinny jeans or shorts) or with a mini dress. It’s important to place emphasis on the shoulder, so by keeping the rest of the outfit neutral (and preferably tight-fitting), the shoulder will be left to do the talking.

Rule 2: Keep accessories to a minimum. When wearing an embellished shoulder (not necessarily a shoulder pad), it’s important not to go overboard with jewelry. Let the jewels in the embellishment be your accessorising. It’s fine to compliment the piece with rings, or a simple necklace (depending on the design) but there is such a thing as ‘less is more’ in fashion. This is one of those times.

Rule 3: Shoulder pads are better with a full sleeve. For more of a flattering look, try to wear shoulder pads as part of a long sleeve top/dress/jacket. Don’t go Lady Gaga with the pads- too much and your body can end up looking completely morphed and out of proportion. Invest in a pad that’s big enough to accentuate your waist. Especially when wearing a mini-dress- it’s important to keep the sleeve long to accentuate your legs and balance out the shoulder.

Rule 4: Have fun. Like any fashion trend, shoulder pads are about being unique and quirky and having fun with fashion. If you’re still too scared to embrace the trend, don’t feel pressured. Shoulder pads should be worn with confidence and a big smile.

Shoulder pads are back?!

90’s fashions have been rising over the past six months or so; neon, oversized sweatshirts over leggings and now shoulder pads.

Most people think of the 80′s shoulder pads that make women look like a football player; for example, Angela from Who’s the Boss? She rocked the 80′s shoulder pads like nobody ever seen!

Luckily for all of you, those shoulder pads are not really coming back, however, a subtle shoulder pad is coming back in a big way!

Suit blazers are in, and their shoulder pads have been getting increasingly bigger. Are they outrageous? No. But does it add a little lift to the shoulders, absolutely.

Shoulder pads made their entrance into women’s fashion in the 30′s and 40′s. Shoulder pads give the figure a more "boxy” shape. This lost its appeal in the 20th century when people started to wear more fitted clothing.

Shoulder pads were also added to women’s fashion to deemphasize the hips.

Some people also say that shoulder pads gave women a greater sense of confidence because they were portrayed as strong because shoulder pads gave the illusion of bigger, stronger shoulders; is that a true reason?

In the 50′s, shoulder pads were changed to a more rounded style instead of a more boxy shoulder pad. Which is what is coming back, the rounded shoulder pads, so do not take out your 30′s box shoulder pads!

On the runway, you will be seeing many shoulder pads that are pointed upwards, which will give the illusion of being taller because it brings the eye upward; it is like wearing a pointed stiletto.

Most body shapes can hold a subtle shoulder pad, just do not go as far as Nicki Minaj or Lady Gaga!