Fashion over 50

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!

draped necklineIf you have small shoulders and would love them to look broader, then here are 5 ways to get the bold shoulder look without having to go back to Dynasty days.

1. Draping

Strategically draped fabric creates shoulder emphasis.

2. Bateau Neckline

A wide, narrow bateau neckline adds width to narrow shoulders.

bateau sweater

3. Cowl Neckline

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

 cowl neck sweater

4. Military Details

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

 green military jacket

5. Cinched Waist

The thinner your waist looks, the broader your shoulders look.  Short or cap sleeves also emphasize the shoulders.

cinched waist

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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.

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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!