Epaulet

An **epaulet** (also spelled **epaulette**) is a decorative shoulder piece on a coat, jacket, or other garment, typically found on military uniforms, police uniforms, and formal wear. They often feature ornamentation such as fringe, braids, or rank insignia, signifying the wearer's status or military rank. Epaulets can be made from various materials, including cloth, metal, and leather, and serve both a functional and aesthetic purpose, enhancing the garment's appearance and, sometimes, its structural integrity. The term may also be used more loosely to describe similar decorative shoulder ornamentation on civilian clothing or historical costumes. Their use has varied across different eras and cultures, reflecting changing fashion trends and social conventions.

Epaulet meaning with examples

• The General's uniform was instantly recognizable by the gold-braided epaulets that adorned his shoulders, signifying his high rank. These ornate epaulets were a symbol of his authority and years of service in the military, gleaming brightly in the sunlight during the parade.
• The antique dress showcased elaborate epaulets fashioned from delicate lace and pearls, creating a stunning silhouette. The unique shoulder detail provided a touch of vintage glamour and set the gown apart from other dresses of the era and style, transforming the shoulders.
• As the ship's captain surveyed the deck, his epaulets, bearing the insignia of his rank, caught the sailor's attention. The epaulets were more than decoration; they conveyed a sense of discipline and reminded the crew of their duty. These were an essential piece.
• Costume designers meticulously crafted the soldier's jacket, ensuring the epaulets were historically accurate, reflecting the regimental details. The epaulets gave visual cues about the character's background and the story's setting of a specific, well-researched history.
• Modern fashion sometimes incorporates epaulets into civilian clothing, like stylish jackets and blazers. They're often a more subdued design, such as a small shoulder strap detail, but the epaulets still lend the garment a touch of military-inspired sophistication.