House of Fraser Blog

Q: So everytime I go shopping I see shoulder pads. My friends are telling me that shoulder pads are back but I’m scared that I’ll look like an 80s throwback. Apparently they’ve been transformed into a modern shape, but why would I wear something to make myself look bigger? I’m a size 12 and am quite tall, I quite fancy giving them ago, but are they impossible to wear?

A: Yes shoulder pads are indeed back and they are the hottest look of the season. And a heads up, they’re not going away, shoulder pads were still dominating the Spring Summer 2010 catwalks. The good news is you’re right the 2009/2010 shoulder pad is slimmer and more triangular. Rather than those power shoulders of the eighties, the look is sexier and flirty. The good thing about shoulder pads is that they will make your waist look smaller, the bad news is if you have broad shoulders this is a look to definitely avoid. If you want to dabble then try a padded t-shirt or jumper. Oasis have a great padded polo neck, £15 whilst Warehouse have a crew neck top with very subtle shoulder pad detail, £35.

If you’re more daring then a shoulder pad mini dress or leather jacket is perfect. Make sure everything on your bottom half is narrow, so skinny jeans, leggings, boots or ankle boots. Avoid anything voluminous or any pointy shoe, otherwise you will look like an 80s reject. Because the new styles are close fitting they will show off your shape, so they will be surprisingly flattering. If you’re still not entirely convinced then experiment with items with embellishment on the shoulders. These won’t give such a dramatic silhouette, but they will be a nod to the trend. Definitely try a shoulder pad top on because you will be amazed at how easy shoulder pads are to wear and how good they look.