OK, You Can Call it a Comeback: Epaulettes!

That fancy fringe up top is known as an epaulette, or "little shoulder" in French, an ornamental shoulder piece mainly worn on military uniforms that would identify a soldier's rank and also keep shoulder belts from slipping. I've seen some pretty cool updated versions around online and I've got to admit, I'm intrigued by these showy shoulder pads as the new! hip! accessory! Though I'm not sure I could confidently rock a pair myself yet. Until I work up the nerve, here are a few I've found that prove the throwback epaulette is making quite the fashion comeback.

Black Pleated Epaulettes by Vietto on Etsy, $45

Embroidered Commanders Epaulettes by Maranon Jewelry, sold out

(first featured on Swings & Arrows in September)

Crocheted Barnacles by Fnine on Etsy, $45

Shell Horn Shoulder Pads by mariaHandmade on Etsy, sold out

One-Shoulder Feather Epaulette by AutomaticDoll on Etsy, $24

- Cathleen

[First image from Oregon Shakespeare Festival]

Maranon Jewelry

I discovered the beautiful hand embroidered jewelry by Lorena Marañón on Etsy a while ago when her shop was called spinthread. One of her pendant necklaces has been on my Christmas list for a couple years now (ahem). 

She’s recently moved on to her own bigger and better website, Maranon Jewels where she has expanded her line of accessories (hello, shoulder epaulettes!) and also features photographs of some of her finer work. Look into it!

- Cathleen


[All photos courtesy of artist's website.]