FASHION

How To Wear A Bold Shoulder After 40

Do you ever wish those big-shouldered outfits we wore in the ’80s were back in style? All that padding was great for giving you an hourglass shape, and boy, did broad shoulders make you look powerful!

 

If you have small shoulders and would love them to appear broader, then here are five ways to achieve the bold shoulder look without resorting to the Dynasty days.

bold shoulder draped neckline on blush dress

1. Draping

Strategically draped fabric creates shoulder emphasis. This crisscross draping draws all eyes to it, widening the shoulders.

bold shoulder - bateau neckline on green sweater

2. Bateau Neckline

A wide, narrow bateau neckline adds width to narrow shoulders, creating a flattering silhouette.

orange cowl neck tunic sweater

3. Cowl Neckline

The sweeping neckline and extra bulk of this cowl-neck sweater create the illusion of wide shoulders.

bold shoulder - red military jacket

4. Military Details

Military jackets make shoulders stand at attention—square shoulders signal authority.

Yellow bold shoulder jacket with cinched waist

5. Cinched Waist

The thinner your waist looks, the broader your shoulders look. Short or cap sleeves also emphasize the shoulders. This peplum jacket, with its cinched-in waist, is proof of that.

 

Share

Meet the author

Deborah Boland

Deborah, a former Fashion & Lifestyle TV host and Image Consultant, understands the style challenges women face in their 40s, 50s, and 60s. As the founder of Fabulous After 40, she helps women tweak their chic and embrace fashion with confidence—so they always look and feel amazing.

Join the Conversation

3 thoughts on “How To Wear A Bold Shoulder After 40

  1. Yes, even one of those puffy sleeve outfits makes me look like I should be wearing a helmet and charging away on a football field. Worst still, I have a pair of skinny legs. Imagine! Haha!

    Deb, please suggest suitable styles for us girls with broad shoulders and spindly legs.

    1. That’s right. You’ll look like a football player. But, if you are pear-shaped (much more prominent on the bottom than at the shoulders), this look will balance you nicely!