Anyone who knows me will understand my aversion to shoulder pads. Ever since I remember, I’ve had notably broad shoulders and would often be mistaken for a swimmer (or worst yet, a line backer) and avoid drawing any attention to this general area – shoulder pads, puffed cap sleeves, ponchos, the list goes one.
Tearing shoulder pads off garments is practically a reflex for me. I’ve thrown out enough shoulder pads to resurrect Dynasty from the dead but I wanted to challenge these little innocuous bits of foam and acetate lining.
I had a vague idea for a feathered epaulette and here I’ve models two versions – in green/black and black/peach. (If the pics seem in any way awkward, it’s because I was balancing a lamp in one hand while pointing a shoulder to the camera)
The challenge is finding a way to make it detachable. There are countless ways of attaching it to one garment but if I wanted versatility, how would I work around this issue? Thoughts?
magnetic closures! they are invisible sewn inside garments! i’ll send you some if you can’t locate them!
Makes sense but how would i attach the magnetic clasp to the garment? Sewn?
You could put them inside of the lining stitching around it , or make little fabric pocket slits to slide them in?
p.s. I love the idea. amazing!
Did you try velcro? They are magic! I have broad shoulders too. But the shouldered trend adds a little flair to a basic outfit, I can’t resist… And these shoulder pads are magnificent!!!!
clothedmuch.blogspot.com
Elaine:
I’m so busy going back to school (euphemism for rubbish), that I’ve completely neglected the blog but thank you for your post. I did consider velcro as it is the answer to most things in life but that would require adding visible velcro to the garment and I don’t want the strap there should I ever whether them without. Regardless, thank you for your kind words!!
I really like your ostrich feathers.
How much would you sell them for?
Hi Chris,
I never thought about selling them but someone else inquired so I sold the green ones. I do have the pair of black ones here. I could make you a pair for $30 if interested. I hope for the next project includes horsehair!
I really like these here! I just found a great pair and sewed them onto a blazer for fall, but I love yours! I saw that you might sell them…I would definately be interested. Do you have any available?
I’m the worst at responding and this blog is long overdue of some TLC. I’ve had quite a few people inquire about the shoulder pads. I do sell them at $25/pair. I do both colourways. Feel free to send me an email although mclnyc@yahoo.com may be better as I’m much better with that! xo
ummm..can i say that from the majority of your shown face you are really really hawt?!!
x
Did you end up going with magnetic closures? I made a pair recently and used the pins you would find in like, 1″ badges, but they arn’t great.
I’ve been trying to make feathered epaulettes forever but it’s just never materialized! How did you get attach the feathers to the should pad? And how did you make/attach the fringe. I am very amateur at fashion DIY and am in dire need of help!
In light of all the queries about making these, here are the instructions. It’s deceptively easy to make and would love to see your take on it as well!
You need:
* Feathers (the fringed ones as opposed to individual ones are much easier to work with)
* Fringe
* Chains (i had some thrifty necklaces)
* A pair of shoulder pads
* Glue gun
* Needle and thread
* Safety pin
Glue the row of feathers from bottom to top. Hot glue fringe along the curved sides only. Allow to dry. Dangle the chains along the same edges and sew where needed to secure.
You can sew them onto your garment but I secure them with safety pins to give me options of embellishing them onto other things as well! Enjoy!