Reading an old tailoring book completely changed my view on shoulder pads

I found a 1978 book on couture techniques at a library sale, and it stated that the original purpose of a structured shoulder was to create a clean line for the sleeve, not to add bulk. This directly contradicts the 'power shoulder' trend I see everywhere now. Do you think modern designers have lost the plot on functional tailoring?

3 comments

3 Comments

the_jordan2mo ago

Wow, that's a really interesting find. I always thought shoulder pads were just for that exaggerated 80s look. But that makes total sense, a clean line for the sleeve. I see some modern blazers where the shoulder is so puffed up it actually ruins the drape of the whole arm. It feels like style completely won over function.

laurag792mo ago

The structure is the whole point though. A little bit of padding in a well-made jacket supports the fabric and keeps the shoulder seam sitting right on your body. It's not about being big, it's about being precise. Bad tailoring just uses too much of a good thing.

david5622mo agoMost Upvoted

My buddy's suit looked like football gear.