The newest t-shirt trend on the block?? Shoulder pads…yep, you read that right! Shoulder pad tops and tees are back and better than ever! If you grew up in the ’80s like me, you will likely have one of two reactions: 1) the trend makes you cringe or 2) It makes you giddy. Which is your reaction? If you are on the cringe side, hear me out for a minute. The shoulder pads we wore in the 80’s were REALLY large; almost like wearing football pads. Today’s shoulder pads, on the other hand, are much more understated and subtle. Still not convinced?? Keep scrolling to see how I styled two chic tops with shoulder pads. P.S. it’s okay to change your mind.
Look #1 | Long Sleeve Padded Shoulder Top
The safest shoulder pad route for those of us over 40… wear subtle padded shoulders with long sleeves in a dark color. Exactly like this gorgeous top above! I love how this top has gorgeous draping to add interest and also conceal a tummy. The shoulder pads make you look a bit wider across the top so they have the added benefit of making your tummy look smaller in contrast. This is a great style technique to create more of a defined waist especially if you have a rectangle body shape (like me)!
If you still don’t know what your body shape is, make sure you check out this post.
With Jeans & Booties
I paired the top with some skinny jeans and black booties for an elevated casual look. These jeans are super high-waisted, stretchy, and very comfortable. They come in Short, Petite, Regular, and Long…I’m 5’4” and wearing a 2 Regular. Look at the inseam length before ordering. Express’ petite lengths are shorter than most.
These slouchy booties have a 3 3/4″ heel but are surprisingly comfortable and easy to walk in (for heels). The pointed toe is elongating and the slouchy design gives them an effortless look! They run TTS and only come in whole sizes. If you’re between sizes, size up. I’m usually a 7.5 and got the 8!
TOP | JEANS | BOOTIES | NECKLACE
Look #2 | Padded Shoulder Bodysuit & Jeans
The hottest shoulder pad trend at the moment (and heading into spring) is more along these lines above… a shoulder pad cap sleeve tee. I’m wearing the same jeans and booties. This shoulder pad tee is actually a bodysuit so it stays streamlined and beautifully tucked with jeans. You don’t have the hassle of pulling down your shirt to keep it tucked in and it doesn’t add any bulk to your lower tummy from excess material. You can pair a tee or bodysuit like this with jeans, pants, dress pants, skirts and shorts. It’s REALLY versatile. Maybe this will inspire us to finish those push-ups? 😉 This runs true to size. I’m wearing a small.
By the way…Express has some of the BEST pre-layered necklaces and this layered chain pendant necklace is my new favorite!
TOP | PANTS | BOOTIES | NECKLACE
Look #3 | Bodysuit & Wide-Leg Pants
Next, I paired the same bodysuit with black wide-leg pants. If you’re still going into the office, these pants are a must-have! The wide-leg silhouette and pleating on the front are really flattering. And I love the luxe look of the gold button on the hips. They come in Regular (33” inseam), Short (30” inseam), and Long (35” inseam). Even if you aren’t a fan of the padded shoulder trend, you can pair any of your other favorite blouses with these pants!
BTW, I wore these pants in my house for about 30 minutes during this shoot and got Traveler hair all over them!! Reason #1567 why I have a zillion lint brushes!
More From Express
One of my favorite things about Express is that they offer trends AND classic pieces. The gorgeous, classic trousers in look #3 are a perfect example. I also love that you can find modern pieces at affordable prices. More from Express below:
The Best Loungewear For Hanging Out At Home
Jogger Jeans for Women? Yes, It’s a Thing!
Favorite Express Sweaters
Okay, now spill it… what do YOU think of the shoulder pad trend resurgence???? Love it or hate it?? Excited to hear your thoughts!
Huge thank you to Express for sponsoring this post. All thoughts and opinions are my own. To get my blog posts delivered directly to your inbox, along with some awesome freebies, be sure to sign up for my newsletter here.
Thank you for all your style tips and For your very positive classy personality. I wish you luck with your lovely website!
“DONE”
Penny
I’m SO thankful for your support, Penny! Thank you! xo
I like the look of this Tee with the structured shoulders but not so sure on the bodysuit part of it. There’s the Restroom hassle thing I can’t get past. 🙂
Haha! I hear you, Maureen! The struggle is real. xo
Hi Erin!! Is this tee a trend or an “elevated” basic?
Ive seen heaps of “elevated basics” in your summer basic series. Not sure of the difference between A “trend” & “basic”. Thank so much,
Jo xxxx
GREAT question. It’s both, but probably more on the “trend” side. I think a tee with a strategic cutout or subtle puff shoulder would be a wiser investment in terms of versatility. Erin xo
I love EVERYTHING you were wearing Erin. When i lived in the midwest i had a camel Coat. So cozy and luxurious! Its not practical in southern California. Id never get to wear it! You do such a good job with styling your clothes. I cant remember not liking anything you do! Keep up the great work and being such a fashion example!
Nancy Moss
LagUna Niguel, Ca
You are SO sweet Nancy! Thank you for your kind words.
Nay. MusCle Tees look terrible on short rectanGular bodIes, especIally if your shoulders are alReady bROAd, my FAVOURITE shape is 3/4 lenGTh crew or tURtlenecK or any Sleeveless or cap sleeve high neck because they miniMise my skinny shouLders, shoRten my long arms and torso and balancE a tHin upper body with a sliGHtLy rounder bottom halF. MusCle tees look great on thoSe who are tall aNd bigger on toP.
Yes, agreed… not ideal for those with broad shoulders. I’m a rectangle with narrow shoulders so it really works on me to make my waist look smaller.
Yay! I was exc for the padded shoulder to come back it looks so Chic and add under a card and instant strUcture Perf for pear shapes