Dust Your Shoulder (Pads) Off

We say that history repeats itself, and we say that the importance of making mistakes is so that we can learn from them. If you think about it, these two concepts go hand in hand like hangers in a closet. If history is repeated, then does that mean that we failed to learn from our mistakes? I think that the true test is how the history is repeated. If it is an exact replica of an irrational mistake, then yes, we failed. However, if our mistakes are used to reinterpret history, then we have clearly learned some important lessons and taken them into consideration.

Case in point: Shoulder Pads

Some might argue that the shoulder pad was the biggest fashion mistake ever made and it contributed to the outrageousness that defined disastrous 80's style. Yet, on fall and spring runways all over the world, interpretations and nods to shoulder pads are everywhere, and this time, they are FABULOUS.

Balmain Spring 2011

photo: elle.com

Designers have examined the concept of the bulky 80's shoulder pad, and reinterpreted it into beautiful and innovative creations that will sustain this trend for seasons to come. A strong shoulder creates structure and defines a petit waist. This is what the original shoulder pads attempted to do. Where they went wrong was that the silhouettes were too overzealous and often ended up looking clownish. So before you start raiding mom's storage closet for anything with big shoulders, take a moment to understand how today's strong shoulders have learned from previous mistakes. The trick is to refine the concept and balance it with this the rest of the garment so that the finished look is flattering, aesthetically pleasing, and interesting. We've moved on from the "bigger is better" mantra and the results are modern and chic.

See By Chloe leather jacket, $795 All Saints Toralu dress, $175

shopbop.com us.allsaints.com

Another way that the shoulder pad trend is being interpreted this season is via epaulets. We are seeing everything from demure tabs and buttons on shoulders, to bold metal chain epaulets that make a strong, fashion-forward statement.

Falconier chain mail epaulet, $595

net-a-porter.com

Worn over a blazer and simple, fitted skirt, this is one accessory that has the ability to transform a look. For those who aren't quite sold enough on the trend to shop Net-A-Porter prices, keep an eye out for similar styles from BCBG coming this fall.

Finally, if you're intrigued by the trend but aren't comfortable making such a dramatic statement, try something more subtle yet still on-trend.

Diane von Furstenberg, $465 Sheri Bodel Valkyrie dress, $462

net-a-porter.com shopbop.com

So before you start cursing fashion editors and designers for resurrecting a tragic moment of fashion history, take a deeper look at the positive changes that have been made to the strong shoulder trend. We have definitely learned from our mistake, and history is repeating itself in a successful and super-chic manner.

Dress on!

Lisa