Everybody’s Wearing Sharp Shoulders
Sharp-shouldered tailoring is the ultimate spring/summer ’26 power play. Here, CHLOE STREET shares how to wear the trend at the office and beyond
Some days, we crave clothes that cocoon and envelop us, while on others we need items that make us feel powerful, poised and ready for whatever life might have in store. A sharp-shouldered jacket or coat is a one-and-done route to the latter. A low-lift, maximum-impact way to feel invincible – or as close to it as any item of clothing can make us.
Padded shoulders cropped up across the spring/summer ’26 runways and largely fell into two categories. There were the pointier, more sculptural shoulders seen at Khaite, Valentino Garavani and Tom Ford, which were often paired with a cinched waist for high-drama dressing. And then there were the oversized shoulders that extended slightly from the body, giving a boxy silhouette, as seen at Acne Studios and Victoria Beckham.
Unlike the oversized blazer trend of a few seasons back, this is not a game of simply sizing up. This year’s styles have more streamlined silhouettes that fit and flatter, making them perfect for everything from evening engagements to busy days in the office. Pick the right fabric and this trend can even be weekend-ready – just add denim, knitwear and flats.
Suit up
A sharp shoulder puts the power into a power suit, adding poise and panache to both your work wardrobe and your evening attire. For an up-to-date take, look for sculptural silhouettes, such as Alaïa’s double-breasted gray blazer, which comes with matching pleat-front tailored pants. Pair with loafers and a shirt for a day of meetings, then for a client dinner swap in black peep-toe heels and a clutch – the red version of Loewe’s ‘Flamenco’ design looks great with the suit’s cool gray hue.
Add drama to denim
If your itinerary calls for something more pared-back but still polished, throw a sharp-shouldered blazer over indigo denim and a printed tee. The slightly longline fit of The Row’s double-breasted ‘Essentials Tristana’ twill blazer means it looks great worn open over straight-leg jeans. Frame’s ‘Vertical’ high-rise style comes in a rigid denim that feels put together – just add black ballet pumps and Saint Laurent’s cat-eye shades.
Strike a cord
For a softer take, wear a sharp-shouldered jacket in tactile corduroy, which gives the silhouette a weekend-ready appeal. Saint Laurent’s peak-lapelled bronze cord blazer oozes a ’70s charm while simultaneously feeling current and cool. Wear it over a cream knit, such as Veronica Beard’s ‘Mazzy’ brushed-cashmere turtleneck (a sleeveless piece ensures bulk-free layering) and tailored pants – the subtle brown pinstripe in Bottega Veneta’s charcoal design picks up the brown of the jacket. A classic loafer, such as Gucci’s ‘Horsebit’ style, is elegant yet practical for weekend wandering.
Sharpen your coat game
Once you’ve mastered the sharp-shouldered jacket, why not take the silhouette outside with a power-shoulder coat? Balenciaga’s dramatic ankle-skimming ‘Hourglass’ coat is a classic you’ll turn to year after year. It’s perfect for throwing over cocktail dresses, and even a gown, but also adds a delicious drama to daywear. Pair it with a simple white tee (V-necks are back, so try Nili Lotan’s ‘Carol’ cotton-jersey style), straight-leg denim and a slouchy tote, such as The Row’s ‘Bindle’, for a look that’s as cool as is it uncomplicated. Bottega Veneta Eyewear’s ‘New Knot’ aviators are the perfect finishing touch.
Or for something more pared-back, consider Gucci’s dark-gray double-breasted coat – its padded shoulders give it a slightly slouchy, oversized feel. The simplicity of the coat means it can take some statement accessories – style it with Nour Hammour’s beautiful burgundy leather gloves and Alaïa’s tiger-print tote for a look that will show 2026 who’s boss.
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