Fashion 101: E

You know when something is so tiny and it can't possibly have a name other than thing-a-ma-jig, but then you realize there is an actual official term for it?  I love when this happens!  Today's word is the perfect example of this!

Epaulette

A removable ornamental shoulder piece that displays insignia or designates rank in the military and other organizations.  Epaulettes, a diminutive from the French, epaule, meaning shoulder, are fastened to a shoulder strap that runs parallel to the should seam and buttons near the collar.  Epaulettes may be fringed.

Seville Michelle Anastos Babette Epaulette

Lately, military inspiration has shown up in fashion through the use of highly ornamental epaulettes and other body jewelry.

Credit: The Visual Dictionary of Fashion Design, Ambrose & Harris