From The Straits Times    |
Margaret Zhang off the shoulder

Often said to be the most understated yet sexy part of a woman’s body, bare shoulders continue to take centre stage on street style blogs and Instagram posts. We can’t get enough of this trend for its sultry sense of sex appeal.

Image: Showbit, stylist and photographer Margaret Zhang

From off-one-shoulder pieces to elegant playsuits, the look can be worked in so many ways and take you straight from office to evening engagement if played right.

Here are our top six suggestions of how to make the look work for your style and budget:

1. FOR THE REFINED LADY

L-R: Floral silk dress $1065, chilli-print silk dress $1900, white silk dress $1530 all by Isolda available on Matchesfashion.com

The reigning Queen of off the shoulder sex appeal has to be Brazilian brand Isolda. This spicy Brazilian designer has the likes of street style darling and fashion entrepreneur Caroline Issa sporting her looks as she jets around the globe. A mix of playful yet wearable prints plus a dose of decolletage on display means these flouncy dresses have us swooning.

2. FOR THE HOME BODY

Cotton pullover $147.60 by Free People

Free People’s off-the-shoulder number represents the home loving girl’s option for the trend. The dolman cut sleeves and roomy fit combined with its dip-dyed effect make for the perfect ensemble to spend a lazy Sunday in, or to go frequent that newly opened hipster cafe.

3. FOR THE NIGHT OWL

Polyester cape playsuit $49 Covet by Love, Bonito

Love, Bonito’s clean cut silhouette in brilliant white was made to create a stunning first impression. A go-to date night piece that could also double up as a ‘girl’s night out’ outfit. It’s a one piece playsuit rather than a dress, perfect for dancing in without worrying about any wardrobe malfunctions. The beautifully cut cape detailing flows seamlessly for added drama. My favourite design detail are the pockets which make for casual nonchalance and easy posing!

4. FOR THE VINTAGE LOVER

Viscose body $54.04 by ASOS

This lacy body from ASOS is a total throwback to the iconic Sandy at the end of Grease moment! Given a 2015 makeover, the sheer top panel adds to the subtle shoulder appeal that the fitted material accentuates. This leotard style piece is easily wearable under jeans and skirts, allowing your bottom half to experiment with colour and volume against its black canvas.

5. FOR THE GIRL ABOUT TOWN

Silk kaftan dress $258.97 by Primavera, available from Inverted Edge 

Light and airy, Primavera’s silk dress can be equal parts professional and after-work casual give or take a few accessory edits. The cut out sleeves are ideal for Singapore’s humidity! Wear with flats and a structured handbag for a coffee meeting and exchange for block sandals and glam statement earrings when cabbing it for cocktails.

6. FOR THE BEACH BABE

Polyblend off shoulder layered dress $29.90 by Something Borrowed at Zalora

The monochrome tropicana print on this voluminous design by Something Borrowed makes us dream of the beach. Its criss-cross halter neck and super flattering, flowing fabric will fare well under the sun and ensure you are the most fashion-forward femme for many sandy miles.

So go forth and let your collarbones reign free, an easy way to keep cool in SG weather whilst maintaining your decorum.

Not sure about showing off your shoulders? Contour your way to a confidence boost with these collarbone accentuating tricks and learn how to release shoulder tension here.