Shoulder Pads IRL

(IRL = In Real Life)

This post is going to be about Runway to Real Life, Episode One, Shoulder Pads.

You might remember this post about GIGANTOR shoulder pads a la Dallas, the Strong Shoulder. I love how Maison Martin Margiela pushes the envelope on this trend. But let’s face it, this is NOT a look that you would wear to the office, maybe not even to a club or a party. But it is so fun to look at, especially in hot pink fur.

So, what if you want to venture slowly, carefully into this trend, but want to be able to wear it out of the house, and not just in your own fantasy world? (Or, if you’re like me, sometimes I will just host a party at my house so I can wear something off the wall. Sometimes I even do a costume change. I know, I’m a little bit out there…)

Dear readers, I have some suggestions for you. I have picked out some simply chic pieces that you can wear to work, the grocery store, Blockbuster Video, or even Wal-Mart. See what you think…

Nanette Lepore “One Night” Cardigan

As you can see, there are tiny, subtle shoulder pads in this cardigan. They do not make you look like a football player at all. I love how it is styled over a pretty printed dress. It’s very feminine and wearable.

Basic Turtleneck Tunic from Victoria’s Secret

I love this look. A classic turtleneck with pretty ruching updated with shoulder pads that you can live with. The long length is good for hiding stuff you don’t want people to see (i.e., rolls).

Shoulder Pad Cardigan by Forever 21

I adore this little cardigan! It is updated for 2010 (get ready) with the cute shoulder pads, not too big, not too small, just right. Throw it on top of pretty much anything, or wear by itself for an edgy structured look.

Finally, if you want something a little bit less basic, try this military-style jacket from Arden B.
What can I say about this jacket other than it’s really, really cute? Not sure I would wear this one to work, but I would definitely wear it to Wal-Mart. What do you think about shoulder pads? Are you ready to accept them, or are you still in the denial stage? I’m ready to give them a try.