Shoulder padding has been a longtime standard within tailoring, offering jackets structure and support across the shoulders and sleeves.
However, style trends change over time and as part of our Video StyleSeries, Leah and fashion consultant Chris Modoo explore if heavy shoulder padding is now out of date.
We also explore more the same question within our latestjournal post below.
WATCH NOW:IS SHOULDER PADDING OUT OF DATE?
IS HEAVY SHOULDER PADDING OUT OF DATE?
Tailored jackets and blazers have various types of shoulder padding and ultimately it may come down to personal taste and the jackets core design. Within the video, the first jacket discussed quite a heavily padded shoulder, which can create quite a strong shoulder line, but is it out of date?
The heavy padded shoulder on a jacket is not very popular at the moment but still has its place within menswear tailoring. The advantage of these stronger shoulder lines is the creating of a lovely shoulder line. Heavy shoulder padding can also accommodate wider lapels and it accentuates a slim waist.
If you like the idea of a really heavy and structured shoulder pad, we would recommendgoingto a tailor to achieve it, as it can be difficult to find off the peg.
THE PERFECT SHOULDER PADDING FOR A TAILORED JACKET
The next jacket featured within the video is our Grey and Burgundy Glen Check Jacket, whichhas light shoulder padding to make the shoulder line clean and precise, without any additional bulk. Some people may consider this to be less formal, but it still perfectly suitable for formal occasions such as weddings or dinner parties.
This style of jacket shoulder padding is contemporary but it can also be worn more casually. Within the video the jacket is styled with a tie, but this jacket can be worn with jeans and a jumper if you wanted a dressed-down look.
WHAT ARE THE BENEFITS OF AN UNSTRUCTURED SHOULDER PAD?
The main difference between a tailored jacket and anunstructured blazer is the part removal of lining and shoulder pads. Additionally, unstructured blazers have a natural sleeve head, which creates a timeless and casual sports jacket. The final jacket featured in our video hasno shoulder padding at all, with a very natural shoulder line. This makes itmore of a casual style jacket that works very well in the warmer months and for any events that is predominantly outside.
Unstructured jacketshave minimal tailoring in the chest and are very softly structured. Therefore, the natural unstructured shoulder complements this style very well.
We hope you enjoyed this article and video today. If you have any questions please email us at info@rampleyandco.com and we’ll be happy to help! Also, please subscribe to our YouTube channel for future videos on men’s styling and product features.
Further Reading:
WHY BUY A RAMPLEY & CO TAILORED JACKET?
Fit is incredibly important to us and so our tailored jackets are designed to look good across all body shapes, ensuring you always look and feel your best. We offer two fits, slim and regular, as well as allowing you to choose the perfect length to suit your torso and arms. We recommend you take a look at our comprehensive size guide which gives a full overview of the sizing should you wish to check against another jacket here:Jacket Size Guide.
As well as being constructed from fabric supplied by the world renowned Scabal of Savile Row,what makes our jackets truly exceptionalis the ability to select your choice of lining (included in the total price). Your lining is not about being extravagant, but ensuring you have something personal to you. We have a large selection of jacket linings, but also offer a bespoke service should you want a truly one-of-a-kind jacket.
Once you have purchased your jacket, one of our team will follow up with you to double check the details and answer any further questions. Your satisfaction is absolutely guaranteed, so you can be sure that you will be delivered a jacket that exceeds your expectations.
WHAT MAKES OUR TAILORED JACKETS AND BLAZERSSO SPECIAL?
1. As part of our commitment to sustainablefashion, we choose to work with only the finest fabrics to make our jackets. Our fabrics are supplied by the world renowned Scabal, whose heritage English mill located in Huddersfield, England has existed since the 16th century.
2. All our jackets are made to order by master tailors with years of experience. The attention to detail, and delicate finishing touches result in a truly special jacket that will see you through life.
3. We fit your chosen lining from our collection of stunning silk linings, including works from masters such as Canaletto, Giordano, Turner and Rubens. Our silk printing process ensures incredible levels of detail and colour. We can also print bespoke linings for a truly one-of-a-kind jacket.
4. We offer our jackets in both a regular and slim cut. This along with lightly padded shoulders give the jacket a modern, clean cut.Our jackets feature classic styling that can be dressed up or down. Medium sized notch lapels, kissing buttons, flap pockets and double vents.
As a seasoned enthusiast and expert in menswear and tailoring, I can confidently attest to the critical role that shoulder padding plays in defining the structure and aesthetic of tailored jackets and blazers. Over the years, I've closely followed style trends and observed the evolution of sartorial choices, making me well-versed in the nuances of shoulder padding and its impact on contemporary fashion.
The recent exploration of whether heavy shoulder padding is out of date, as highlighted in your Video Style Series and journal post, aligns with the ongoing dialogue within the fashion community. Drawing upon my extensive knowledge, let's delve into the concepts presented in your article.
1. Heavy Shoulder Padding:
- The article rightly acknowledges that heavy shoulder padding has been a long-standing standard in tailoring, contributing to the structure and support of jackets.
- The trend analysis suggests that while not currently popular, heavy shoulder padding still holds a place in menswear tailoring. It creates a strong shoulder line, accommodating wider lapels and emphasizing a slim waist.
- The recommendation to consult a tailor for achieving a heavily padded shoulder emphasizes the bespoke nature of this style.
2. Light Shoulder Padding:
- The Grey and Burgundy Glen Check Jacket featured in the video exemplifies a contemporary approach with light shoulder padding. This choice aims to create a clean and precise shoulder line without added bulk.
- The versatility of jackets with light shoulder padding is highlighted, suitable for both formal occasions and casual wear. The article suggests pairing such jackets with jeans and a jumper for a dressed-down look.
3. Unstructured Shoulder Pad:
- The article introduces the concept of unstructured blazers, which differ from tailored jackets in that they lack lining and shoulder pads.
- The final jacket in the video exemplifies an unstructured style with no shoulder padding, resulting in a natural shoulder line. This style is deemed more casual and suitable for warmer months or outdoor events.
4. Tailored Jacket Features:
- The tailored jackets and blazers offered by Rampley & Co are positioned as special due to several key features.
- The commitment to sustainable fashion is emphasized through the use of fine fabrics supplied by Scabal, a renowned English mill with a heritage dating back to the 16th century.
- The made-to-order process by master tailors ensures attention to detail and delicate finishing touches, resulting in exceptional jackets.
- The customization options, including the choice of lining from a collection of stunning silk linings or bespoke options, contribute to the uniqueness of each jacket.
- The availability of both regular and slim cuts, along with lightly padded shoulders, aligns with modern, clean-cut styling.
In conclusion, the article effectively navigates the dynamic landscape of shoulder padding in menswear, providing insights into the ongoing debate about heavy padding's relevance and showcasing the diversity offered by light padding and unstructured styles. As a dedicated follower of menswear trends, I appreciate the comprehensive overview and nuanced perspectives presented in your content.
