Bold shoulder pads make unlikely return to Irish high street – The Times

High street fashion has evolved rapidly in recent years, making unlikely comebacks in the form of unexpected throwbacks. From the return of scrunchies to the revival of polo necks, the latest throwback making headlines is bold shoulder pads. Originating in the eighties, these iconic pieces of clothing are making an unlikely return to Irish high streets, bringing a touch of retro to the season’s wardrobe.

1. “Put Your Shoulders in the Spotlight”

Want to make your shoulders more defined and attractive? Try these few exercises to really draw attention to this often neglected area and build strength:

• Up-hills walks – They do wonders for your posture and for slimmer, stronger and more attractive looking shoulders.
• Shoulder presses – Incorporate the use of weights to further improve the range of movement and build and bigger, stronger shoulders.

Shoulder raises are a great way to focus on your shoulder muscles, adding definition and helping with posture too. Stand with your feet shoulder width apart and arms by your sides then lift your arms up and outwards a few inches, then back down. You will feel the tension in your shoulder muscles and the results in your posture. Do this movement in sets of 10 reps for best results.

2. “Bold Shoulder Pads: The Latest Fashion Icon”

Shoulder pads are making a big-time comeback this season! Designers have spun the simple 80s fashion accessory into something a modern-day fashionista can appreciate. From everyday casual-wear to glamorous evening gowns, bold shoulder pads are an instant statement piece that makes any look stand out.

The amazing thing about this accessory is that it can bring sophistication, edge, and fun to any look. It’s like an instant wardrobe upgrade; all you need is a well-fitted item of clothing and a set of beautiful, eye-catching shoulder pads. Here are different ways to style them:

• Top them off with a blazer: Ditch boring plain blazers for something more daring – add bold shoulder pads and make them the center of attention.
• Sweatshirt dress: Got a cute dress that looks a bit plain for an event? Put on some bold shoulder pads, and you’ll be ready to turn heads.
• Jumpsuit: Have fun with jumpsuits – add some shoulder pads and you’ll be sure to look stylish and put together.

Rock the trend and create stunning new looks with bold shoulder pads – they are the perfect fashion accessory to elevate any look.

3. “Why This Revival of ’80s-Inspired Trends?”

It’s no secret that ’80s-inspired fashion trends have recently experienced a revival in the world of streetwear. However, why have we experienced this newfound appreciation for ’80s trends?

The ’80s was an era of excess, individuality, and innovation in fashion, with bodycon silhouettes, bright colours, layered looks, and bold designs exploding onto the scene. From pieces like Members Only jackets, crimped hair and over-the-top metallic outfits to asymmetric cuts and two-tone sneaker silhouettes, the ’80s was a time when fashion dared to be bold and stylish in equal measure. It struck a chord with people that lasted well beyond the decade itself, and has resurfaced recently to show that its influence is still alive and well.

• Individuality – despite the conformity of 50s and 70s fashion movements, the ’80s saw a return to bolder statements of personal style.
• Colour – The ’80s pushed for bright colours, making way for neon pastels, bold primary colours, and more.
• Sustainability – Vintage clothing and accessorising is hugely popular today, and nothing is more resilient than ’80s-inspired pieces.
• Celebrity culture – from the likes of Boy George to Pat Benatar, the ’80s had a booming culture of fashion-forward celebrities making a statement.

The nostalgia of ’80s trends has been further popularized in recent years by the likes of entertainment media like Stranger Things and video gaming. Whether it’s a tribute to the ’80s or a contemporary take on the decade’s fashion, the ’80s look is very much alive and we can’t wait to see what new twists it inspires in 2020 and beyond.

4. “The Future of Shoulder Pad Style: What to Expect

As the current decade comes to a close, the future of shoulder pad style is looking exciting and full of possibilities. Keeping up with the trends, the silhouette has managed to remain an enduring favourite, particularly in the bolder shapes. Designers have been experimenting with colours and shapes to create the most striking and visually interesting shoulder pads for the upcoming season.

Colours: Colour blocking with shoulder pads is certainly in fashion, with bright, vibrantly-hued shades dominating the trend. Favourites include different shades of pink, along with bold blues and purples. Silver and other metallic tones can also be seen in more subtle ways, such as for embellishments or for a subtle hint of sparkle.

Shapes & Styles: We can certainly expect to see a lot more of the exaggerated shoulders this upcoming season. Designers are expected to make the most outrageous shapes and styles that they can, featuring a range of shapes such as:

• Pointy
• Extra Padded Shoulders
• One-Side-Larger-Than-The-Other
• Geometric

Though the aim is to experiment with shapes, the size should still remain relatively close to what is currently trending. For the more daring fashionistas, the choice of outrageous shapes and patterns that the shoulder pads can come in will rule the trend.

It’s a fashion statement everyone thought they’d left behind in the 80’s and 90’s – but don’t be fooled, the power suit is back on the Irish high street! Whether it’s a dapper tuxedo, or sexy bodycon dress, bold shoulder pads are the trend to watch out for. Like so many looks we’ve seen before, it’s cycling back into vogue – so if you’re trying to make a strong style statement, why not join the power trend?