When most of us hear the term “shoulder pads,” we immediately conjure up images (read: nightmares) of the giant hair and crazy neon prints of the 1980s and '90s. Did we ever think we'd consider donning that trend ourselves?
Yet in recent years, enhanced shoulders have been spotted on catwalks, celebrities and eventually even the mannequins of local department stores. Luckily, unless you’re Lady Gaga, shoulder pads these days are much more toned down than their ’80s and ’90s counterparts, so much so that you might not even notice them at first. The subtlety of today's shoulder pads make them a perfect way to define the shape of your torso and look totally in charge.
Since it's Throwback Thursday, we thought we'd share some easy way to integrate shoulder pads into your wardrobe (without looking like you walked right off the Clueless set)!
1. At your internship
Maybe the concept of “power dressing” is worth revisiting. Let your office know you mean business!Be powerfully professional at the office during your internship with Modcloth’s Documentary Filmmaker Blazer, on sale for $20. Style it with:
- Wallis Blue Soft Collar Wrap Top, $56
- PacSun Bullhead Low Rise Skinniest Starry Black Jeans, on sale for $29.95
- ModCloth Follow the Arrow Flats, $29.99
- Ann Taylor Peacock Stackable Rings, on sale for $44.99
- Aldo Beetz handbag, $50
2. At brunch
Pretend to be sophisticated (hey, you're at a fancy brunch after all!) while simultaneously consuming your weight in pancakes. Be bold at brunch in an Anthropologie Canace Blazer, $118. Style it with:
- Charlotte Russe Strappy-Back Tribal Print Romper, on sale for $22.99
- Chicnova Vintage Multiple Color Diamond Decorate Sunglasses, on sale for $11.05
- Charlotte Russe Nubuck Crisscross Platform Wedge Sandals, on sale for $19.49
- Mango Patent Cross Body Bag, $44.99
3. On date night
Be daring on date night while rocking an Akira Draped Front Long Sleeve Dress, $40. Make a statement when that random guy on Tinder cute baseball player from class asks you to dinner! Style it with:
- ASOS Heart Choker Locket Necklace, $11.61
- Kate Spade Mini Bow Stud Earrings, $48
- Neiman Marcus Vixon Crystal Skull Envelope Clutch, on sale for $39
- JustFab Isabeau heels, $54.99
Shoulder pads have clearly undergone a major makeover--and our attitudes about them have too! What do you think, collegiettes? Do shoulder pads deseve a second chance?
Nominate another Throwback Thursday to be featured on the site in the comments below!