Let's Wrap It Up: Shoulder to Shoulder

Stop stuffing your bras and start stuffing your shoulders! Seriously, the shapely shoulder is taking over. In the 80's it was a power thing. Women suited up in their version of sports gear to get through the battlefield of the new work world. The shoulders of now are a bit more refined and even softer, but still symbolically aggressive. Here's a sampling:


Balenciaga's beautiful round-shouldered jackets.


Balmain's padded rocker chic.


See Maison Martin Margiela's shoulders? Right there beneath the giant Afro puffs?

Need some bulk? Here's where to pick up some perfect padding. Happy stuffing!

Images: Style.com

The Bold Shoulder

Remember the 80's, when women in and out of the workforce looked like line backers? Well, soon the memories will be a little more short term than long. Looks like shaped shoulders are making a comeback. While the right woman could possibly carry off a little more on her shoulders a la the Balmain looks above, this is one of those trends that goes really wrong when left to the general public. Proceed with caution ladies, or leave it to the trendy and keep it classic. That's always a winning strategy.