Epaulettes, a detail that was once a marker of military rank, have elegantly transitioned into the world of fashion, becoming a powerful tool for designers and style enthusiasts alike. Understanding the different types and their uses can elevate your style game from basic to expertly curated. This guide will walk you through the various styles of epaulettes, their historical context in fashion, and how to effectively incorporate them into your wardrobe to create distinct, impactful looks.
The Foundation: What Exactly Are Epaulettes?
At their core, epaulettes are ornamental shoulder pieces. The word itself comes from the French “épaulette,” meaning “little shoulder.” While their origins are military, they’ve been adopted and adapted by the fashion industry, shedding their strict rules and becoming a canvas for creativity. They can be simple fabric loops, elaborate fringed pieces, or anything in between.
In fashion, epaulettes serve several purposes:
- Structure: They can add a defined, strong silhouette to a garment, particularly on jackets and coats.
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Embellishment: They act as a decorative element, drawing the eye and adding visual interest.
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Nostalgia: They evoke a sense of history, authority, and vintage charm.
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Versatility: They can be permanent fixtures on a garment or detachable accessories that you can mix and match.
Type 1: The Classic Fabric Loop Epaulette
This is perhaps the most common and recognizable type of epaulette in modern fashion. It’s a simple, functional loop of fabric, often the same material as the garment itself, sewn onto the shoulder seam.
Anatomy and Functionality
The fabric loop epaulette typically consists of two parts: a button or other fastening at the collar side and a sewn-down end at the armhole side. This design allows you to secure a strap, a bag, or even a pair of gloves, a practical feature borrowed directly from military uniforms. In fashion, this practicality is more of a stylistic nod, giving the garment a utilitarian, yet chic, feel.
How to Style Them
- Trench Coats: The fabric loop epaulette is synonymous with the classic trench coat. Style a trench coat with the epaulettes fastened to create a clean, structured look. For a more relaxed vibe, leave them unbuttoned.
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Safari Jackets: These jackets often feature fabric epaulettes that enhance their adventurous, rugged aesthetic. Pair a safari jacket with cargo pants or chinos for an exploration-ready ensemble.
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Button-Up Shirts: A button-up shirt with fabric epaulettes, particularly in a crisp cotton or linen, adds a touch of safari chic. Roll up the sleeves and leave a few buttons undone for an effortlessly cool look.
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Military-Inspired Blazers: Epaulettes on a blazer instantly give it a sharper, more formal edge. For a modern twist, pair a military-style blazer with a simple t-shirt and jeans.
Type 2: The Fringed Epaulette
Fringed epaulettes are the most decorative and visually dramatic type. They are a direct descendant of the formal military dress uniform, where the number and style of fringes indicated rank.
Anatomy and Design
These epaulettes are typically made of a rigid base, often covered in cloth, from which hang multiple rows of metallic or fabric fringes. The fringes can be long and flowing or short and dense. In fashion, they are often seen on blazers, jackets, and even tops, creating a sense of movement and opulence.
How to Style Them
- Statement Jackets: A jacket with fringed epaulettes is a statement piece in itself. Keep the rest of your outfit simple—think a black dress or a simple top and trousers—to let the epaulettes be the star of the show.
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Bohemian and Festival Wear: Fringed epaulettes, especially those with fabric or leather fringes, fit perfectly into a bohemian or festival aesthetic. Pair a jacket with fringed epaulettes with a flowy maxi dress or distressed denim shorts.
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Evening Wear: For a high-fashion, glamorous look, consider a top or jacket with delicate, fine-fringed epaulettes. This adds a sophisticated touch of sparkle and texture to an evening ensemble.
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DIY Embellishment: You can easily add fringed epaulettes to a plain jacket. Purchase pre-made epaulettes and sew them onto the shoulder seams of a denim jacket or a leather jacket for a custom, personalized piece.
Type 3: The Board or Slide Epaulette
This type of epaulette is a more modern, streamlined version, often seen on aviation or police uniforms, but it has found its way into fashion as a clean, structured detail.
Anatomy and Purpose
The board epaulette is a flat, stiff piece of fabric or leather, often rectangular, that is slipped onto the shoulder strap of a garment. It’s designed to hold rank insignia, but in fashion, its primary purpose is to add a sharp, authoritative line to the shoulder. It creates a defined, geometric silhouette that is both minimalist and powerful.
How to Style Them
- Corporate and Smart Casual: A blazer or jacket with board epaulettes adds a sense of professionalism and authority. This style is perfect for a business casual environment. Pair it with tailored trousers and a simple blouse.
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Minimalist Streetwear: The clean lines of a board epaulette can be incorporated into a minimalist streetwear look. Think a crisp, oversized shirt or a structured bomber jacket with subtle board epaulettes.
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Leather Jackets: A leather jacket with board epaulettes adds an edgier, more modern twist to the classic biker jacket. It’s a great way to introduce a touch of uniform-inspired style without being too literal.
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Adding an Accessory: Some brands sell detachable board epaulettes that you can clip onto any jacket or shirt, allowing you to experiment with this style without committing to a new garment.
Type 4: The Rope and Cord Epaulette
This style is a nod to ceremonial military uniforms, particularly those from the 18th and 19th centuries. They are characterized by their intricate, braided design.
Anatomy and Aesthetics
Rope and cord epaulettes are made from braided cords, often in contrasting colors, that are sewn onto the shoulder. They can feature tassels, knots, and other decorative elements. This type of epaulette is all about texture and historical detail.
How to Style Them
- Theatrical and Historical Fashion: This style is perfect for creating a dramatic, historical-inspired look. Think of a structured jacket with cord epaulettes paired with a ruffled blouse and high-waisted trousers.
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Statement Blazers: A blazer with rope and cord epaulettes is a unique and bold choice. It can instantly transform a simple outfit into a fashion-forward ensemble.
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Adding Color and Texture: Use rope and cord epaulettes to introduce a pop of color or a new texture to your wardrobe. A dark blazer with gold or red braided epaulettes is a striking combination.
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Avant-Garde Designs: In high fashion, designers often use exaggerated rope and cord epaulettes on coats and jackets to create sculptural, avant-garde silhouettes.
How to Integrate Epaulettes into Your Wardrobe
Beyond understanding the different types, the true art is in knowing how to wear them. Here are some actionable tips for incorporating epaulettes into your personal style.
Tip 1: Start with the Basics
If you’re new to the trend, begin with a classic piece that features subtle epaulettes, like a trench coat or a safari jacket. These are timeless garments where epaulettes feel natural and not overly trendy. They are a low-risk way to test the waters.
Tip 2: Use Them to Balance Your Silhouette
Epaulettes add visual weight and width to the shoulder area. This can be used strategically to balance your body shape.
- For narrow shoulders: Epaulettes can make your shoulders appear broader and more defined, creating a more balanced, hourglass silhouette.
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For broader shoulders: While it may seem counterintuitive, opting for smaller, less dramatic epaulettes can actually enhance a broad-shouldered frame by adding a structured, intentional detail rather than an overwhelming one.
Tip 3: Mix and Match Textures and Styles
Don’t be afraid to combine different types of epaulettes with various fabrics and styles.
- A leather jacket with fabric loop epaulettes creates an interesting juxtaposition of tough and classic.
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A velvet blazer with metallic fringed epaulettes is a luxurious and glamorous combination.
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A cotton shirt with subtle rope detailing on the epaulettes adds an unexpected touch of elegance.
Tip 4: Consider Detachable Options
Many brands offer jackets and coats with detachable epaulettes. This is a fantastic option for versatility. You can go from a simple, clean look to a structured, military-inspired look in seconds. You can also purchase standalone epaulettes and pin or sew them onto your existing clothes.
Tip 5: Pay Attention to the Details
When styling a garment with epaulettes, be mindful of the other elements of your outfit.
- Necklines: A simple neckline, like a crew neck or a V-neck, will allow the epaulettes to stand out. Avoid overly busy or ruffled necklines that might compete for attention.
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Accessories: Keep other accessories minimal. A statement necklace might clash with a dramatic epaulette. Instead, opt for simple earrings or a classic watch.
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Footwear: The style of your footwear should complement the overall aesthetic. Boots and loafers work well with military-inspired styles, while heels or sandals can pair beautifully with more decorative epaulettes.
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Conclusion
Epaulettes are far more than just a historical relic; they are a dynamic and versatile fashion element. By understanding the different types—from the utilitarian fabric loop to the dramatic fringed and the structured board—you can strategically use them to add structure, texture, and a touch of sartorial history to your wardrobe. They are a powerful tool for self-expression, capable of transforming a simple garment into a statement piece. Embrace the detail, and let your shoulders do the talking.