Oversized Shoulders Are The Powerful Silhouette Trend For 2024

If the spring 2024 fashion shows were any indication, we are going to have to pull out all of our power pieces for the year ahead. From blazers to blouses, everything is getting a facelift for 2024, and there's one specific feature that'll upgrade them all: the oversized shoulder. It's a subtle nod to classic '80s style trends that showcased robust shoulder pads and cinched-in waists. Although the exact design is up to you, there's one thing that's certain — you'll want to accent your shoulders. Whether it's through an eccentric design or shoulder pads, there are plenty of ways to play up this feature to create structured definition.

On the runway, we saw brands like Max Mara zhush up their shoulder details to create very defined silhouettes. If you want to appear statuesque, using strong shoulders in your clothing will give a dynamic figure. Although this detail is often best suited to a boardroom or a formal event, you can easily add oversized shoulders to your everyday outfits for that touch of high fashion.

When you have a powerful fashion statement like shoulder pads, what better piece to use it in than a dynamic blazer? The blazer is a sure-fire trend that's become a classic, but adding a modern update like oversized shoulders will create a fresher take on this timeless item. An oversized shoulder blazer is vital if you want to give more life to minimalist dressing. Even if you use simple pieces like trousers or a tee, small details like oversized shoulders will make for a standout look.

While strong shoulders are always stylish with your outerwear, they're even more striking if you add them to your tops and blouses. A structured oversized shoulder top is the perfect staple piece to build your outfit around. Whether they're dressing up everyday looks or accenting more formal attire, these tops will be your best bet for 2024. For a more subtle oversized look, brands like Roksanda used a solid shoulder to add a sharp contrast to their fluid and romantic tops.

Because trends tend to last for only a season (sometimes less), it's sometimes challenging to pull them all off while they're still the latest fad. To avoid being spotted in an outdated piece, opt for wearing multiple trendy items at once. When it comes to oversized shoulders, it's easy to mix the look with other stylish pieces to create a more modern look. Other trends like sheer clothing will still rock 2024, making them an effortless style element to give you a head-to-toe chic 'fit.

If you're going for a dynamic look, why not opt for power pieces on top and bottom? Taking inspo from the style of an '80s office, going for an oversized shoulder jacket with matching bottoms and a button-down will give you that look without even trying. Vivienne Westwood's Spring 2024 collection gave us the perfect example of using a two-piece suit set with a matching oversized shoulder jacket and skirt for the office-approved look that gives off high-fashion vibes.

2024 will see no shortage of opportunities for formal attire that shines. To start getting ready for significant events, pull out the oversized shoulders for your dressy occasions. If you want a sleek and modern look that'll work for any situation, add large shoulders to your minimalistic pieces for a little more glam. Date night and party looks will always look on-trend and stylish in a simple silhouette with a detail accent like oversized shoulders.

Besides fit and style, color is another essential factor when picking out your trendy pieces for 2024. As we've seen during fall and winter 2023, color can play a massive role in the trends list, making it essential to jump on board with the right hues. Take it from Hermès, who used the runway to showcase the impact of a robust red color. Shades like red and black are powerful in themselves, and when paired with a statement shoulder, it will create an even more dynamic look.

While fabrics like cotton, wool, and knit will always be in style, leather is among the best if you want to create a statement. Typical leather pieces usually feature straight lines and rigid structures. Play with the material and use oversized leather to emphasize this style element. Giving such substantial proportions to an unexpected material like leather will only create more contrast and create a visually exciting look.