Jennifer Connelly’s early red carpet appearances are a fascinating journey through evolving fashion trends. In the late ’80s and early ’90s, we saw her navigate a style landscape dominated by some looks that haven’t exactly aged well. One trend in particular stands out – the infamous “power shoulder.”
You see them everywhere in photos from the era: oversized, padded shoulders that seemed to add an extra foot to everyone’s frame. And while this trend gave off a commanding and powerful vibe for actresses like Joan Collins and Linda Evans on television’s “Dynasty,” it wasn’t always as flattering in reality.
For young actresses like Jennifer just breaking out onto the scene, the power shoulder could sometimes overwhelm their delicate frames. Think back to those sharp-shouldered prom dresses or jackets that made everyone look a bit boxy. While some might see them as dated today, they were considered the epitome of sophistication at the time!
Fashion historian Valerie Steele, Director and Chief Curator of The Museum at FIT, explains this phenomenon: “In the 1980s, the power shoulder was a symbol of female ambition and success in the professional world. It mirrored the rise of women in leadership roles and challenged traditional notions of femininity.”
However, styles are cyclical. Could we see the return of the power shoulder on today’s red carpets? Would you consider sporting this throwback trend?
Would Jennifer Connelly herself ever revisit this iconic fashion silhouette from her past? And what other fashion trends from those decades might make a comeback in the future?
