I’ll admit, I was a little skeptical when I heard shoulder pads were popping up all over the Fall '07 runways. Granted everything old is new again, but shoulder pads? Really?
To my surprise (and delight), most designers didn’t just stick to the square shape we’re used to — you remember those infamous skirt suits — they actually reinterpreted the silhouette and used the padding to create really feminine pieces. I never thought I’d say it, but shoulder pads can work; it’s all about finding perfect combination of power (because that’s what they’re are there for, right?) and pretty. Think framing, not footballer.
I’m sure you’re still probably a little wary — this photo on the left from Glamour says it all — but check out the must-haves below. The structured blazers from Akris Punto, like this sumptuous mustard Corduroy Blazer ($995) is perfect for fall, and tailored enough that it won't make you look like a linebacker. When it comes to power suiting, look no further than this Austin Reed 'Buckingham' Gabardine Jacket
($268) that will blend in seamlessly for work with less damage to your wallet. Finally, for a touch of femininity and luxury, the softly rounded, yet statuesque shoulders in fall's hottest hue, violet, are found on this Escada Wool Boucle Jacket
($1650 available for pre-order).
What about you? Now that shoulder pads have been reincarnated, will you wear them this season? Tell us your thoughts in the comments section.
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I really just can’t do this again. I lived through the “Dynasty” and “Knots Landing” era and I’ve suffered enough. What’s the next revival coming? The banana clip?
lol! I would love to see us all wearing high tops, acid wash jeans and hair scrunchies again. Ugh…
Shoulder pads are quite heinous, but I really like that purple blazer with the ruffled blouse. It looks really elegant on the model, but I don’t think I could pull it off. Oh well… I’ll stick to my ankle booties.
Shoulder pads make good props for Halloween costumes… Need I say more?
Shoulder pads have got to be THE worst, ugliest, fem-less, look-at-me-I’m-THE-worst-clueless-fashion-victim-EVER revival trend. Why did women ever allow shoulder pads to become a fad the first time around?? To allow them to repeat is just criminal!
I think shoulder pads should be permanently banned, they are horrible!
Shoulder pads are not for power!! They are to give those of us who aren’t a size “0″ some definition. Unless you are a size “0″ and are on a runway, guess what??? More than likely you have no definition to your shoulders and it adds about 10-15 extra pounds to your silhouette. Hello shoulder pads!