SS17 trend: What’s the Bardot top update for shoulder show-offs?

What can replace the off-shoulder Bardot top? That’s a big question. It was quite a hit for SS16 so the short answer is: nothing. The Bardot top will continue into 2017. But it’s being joined by alternatives for the woman who doesn’t mind chilly shoulders by day or who wants to make a statement by night - and of course it’s also a look that’s early transferable into categories like nightwear, lingerie and bridal.

The key direction for the season is the one-shoulder cut. Surprisingly simple or as elaborate as the wearer can bear, it’s a look that shouts summer evening/occasionwear but also has the strength to move into party-time 2017. Find it on dresses, blouses and crop tops. Add a single sleeve, a giant ruffle or a single shoulder pad to tap into the retro 80s themes that invaded the runways this time round.

Isabel Marant, Isabel Marant, Lanvin, Preen, Saint Laurent, Barbara Bui, Barbara Bui, Off-White

Cutaway shoulders (pictured top) and statement straps on tops or dresses that look as though they should be strapless, also push the focus squarely onto the shoulders. And don’t forget the ‘accidental’ shoulder reveal. A top cut with a wide neckline to artfully tumble off the shoulder can take the youth and contemporary consumer from festival to beach in style.