How to wear padded shoulders, the only T-shirt trend that matters in 2020

Rounded necklines, exaggerated shoulders, a sleeveless silhouette and a muted colour palette of white, black and beige is an easy-to-envisage description of one of the most loved OOTDs on Instagram. It all began with the ‘Eva’ T-shirt, a perpetually sold-out piece introduced by the New York and Paris-based ready-to-wear brand, Frankie Shop. Gaelle Drevet’s cult label is mostly known for its clean-cut wardrobe staples updated with modern touches. The fashion-forward style was instantly favourited by the fashion folk—think Rita Ora, Brittany Xavier, Mathilde Goehler and Olivia Culpo to name just a few—sporting the ‘muscle tee’ first in crisp white, then in shades of olive, grey, mocha and lilac. Experiments with the accentuated shoulder don’t just end there—DIY videos and TikToks soon flooded social media feeds with hacks to recreate the look. Or simply, you can also shop the trend in oversized cable-knit vests, cosy turtlenecks, linen and wool vests, and relaxed sweatshirts, offered in a palette ranging from cheerful yellow to soothing neutrals.

Looking to trial those structured shoulders before investing? From dresses to textured tops, there are several interpretations of the coveted design. Choose from Zara’s easy-to-style blush pink version or make a casual look with Mango’s nautical stripes without stretching your budget. Take cues from the trend-setters themselves and add layered gold chains for an elevated way to make your jeans-and-tee look luxe, or it makes for an especially flattering silhouette with high waisted trousers. At Isabel Marant and The Attico, find luxurious iterations in classic monochrome or add Frankie Shop’s lemon yellow muscle tee or ‘Tina’ padded shoulder black cotton dress to your wish list. Scroll through our edit to find yourself a piece that promises a striking silhouette with the ease of an everyday basic. 

Also read:

7 outfits to inspire your September workwear wardrobe

The 6 statement T-shirts on our radar, including the new limited-edition Huemn+Bukowski release

9 co-ord sets that you'll want to live in right now