Spring Summer 2012 Trend: Open Shoulders

by Anna Villaruel
(Seoul, South Korea)

March 22, 2012: Letting both of your shoulders peek from your garment adds a super relaxed and seductive feel to your outfit. And that's definitely a far cry from giving someone a "cold shoulder"!

SS2012 RTW Luca Luca/Regis Colin Berthelier - NowFashion
It's not as simple as wearing a sleeveless blouse - the soft slits at the shoulders show just the right amount of skin, letting the skin peek seductively behind the draping. The first time I discovered this trend was last summer (and it's back and gaining its moment this spring!) on gorgeous Norwegian fashion blogger Ingrid Holm at The Showmanship:


Alluring and sweet at the same time don't you think?

I didn't think much about this trend until I moved to South Korea last summer and discovered various styles of the open shoulder top. So I ended up buying this sleeve style in black and warm camel shirts by the Korean brand "Real COCO":

Get the Look:

Product info: 1. White blouse - 2. Shorts - 3. Sandals - 4. Bag

How to wear Open Shoulder

This trend goes great with most bottom styles, but looks amazing with a skirt. I've worn it with a suede skirt as well as a pair of chino trousers.

If you want to sport a casual look, wear the top with slim-fitted cargo pants and espadrille sandals. Or go for a heavenly-inspired ensemble with a simple and flowing open shoulder dress.

In my opinion, trendy clothes and accessories in neutral colors can multiply your outfits (they go with everything!) but still keep you looking up-to-date :-) You'll look ultra-chic if you keep your bottom neutral and simple along with a few accent accessories. For example, white open shoulder top and a brown leather skirt, finished off with trendy gold or silver jewelry. Or if you want to achieve a bohemian look, try something exotic such as a South-western inspired bracelet. A simple pendant necklace works too.

Top picks:

Product info: Plum blouse - Sequin top


Product info: Black Dress - Teal Dress


What do you lovelies think about letting your shoulders peek from the sleeves? Tarty? Or chic?