The return of shoulder pads! Fashion is weighing on us with heavy shoulders

Exaggerated shoulders are seen on runways, as shoulder pads make a big return. Photo composite (from left): Saint Laurent, Versace, Valentino

As if reflecting the current state of the world, fashion is weighing on us with heavy shoulders.

Or could it be that the return of shoulder pads is style’s symbolic way of toughening us up, inspiring us to show up and fight?

Just like we did in the 1980s, when power dressing ruled and shoulder pads became armour for ambition, motivation and resilience.

Whether on a suit, a dress or even a shirt, shoulder pads give a strong look that is empowering and commanding.

Drawing attention with bold shoulders are the creations from Stella McCartney’s latest collection.

From coats to suits, and even dresses, long and short, the British designer accentuates her designs with sizeable shoulder pads.

The linebacker shoulders, while they may appear unusual or exaggerated, make a strong statement in the times we live in.

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As the press statement reads, “This season’s Stella woman is educated, an entrepreneur, the boss. She is a mother, a sister, a lover. She fights the good fight – for women, for animals, for everyone. She does it all; enjoying every aspect of her working day whilst having fun and being herself at night.

"Winter 2025 brings the two together, allowing her to express herself through what she wears. A reminder that sexuality and sensuality, kindness and vulnerability are forms of strength and beauty.”

At Issey Miyake, the silhouette appears rather unusual, albeit interesting.

The shoulder pads used on a blouse create a soft, slouched effect, giving it an artistic flair.

Not quite for the traditionalist, but certainly appealing to the creatively inclined.

Another exaggerated shoulder aesthetic appears in the form of a long sleeved black top worn with tattered jeans.

The former, embellished with beads encircling a golden disc featuring the head of Medusa, is accented with prominent shoulder pads extending beyond the model’s natural frame.

You can guess that this bold number for Autumn/Winter 2025 is none other than from Donatella Versace.

Her final collection, presented during Milan Fashion Week in February, came just a month before she stepped down as creative director to assume the role of Chief Brand Ambassador.

From Saint Laurent comes a beautiful brocade jacket with sharp shoulders, evoking the striking silhouettes of 1980s dressing.

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In fact, the entire look, from the lace top and ruffled skirt to the chunky gold jewellery, is a clear nod to that ultra glamorous era. A revisit to your mum’s 1980s pieces might be in order.

For Autumn/Winter 2025, Valentino presents a polished and confident grey suit, its serious power shoulders projecting authority.

A striped bow and a black leather belt, secured with a golden buckle showcasing the recognisable “V” insignia, offer a feminine counterpoint.

The checked blazer from French brand Sandro also features strong shoulders for a structured look, but the masculine mode is toned down with a golden brooch, and the blazer is worn with a short skirt. Chic and cleverly balanced.