epaulet

An epaulet, also spelled epaulette, is a decorative shoulder ornament found on garments, most notably military and naval uniforms. It covers the shoulder seam and may hang down the chest or back, often featuring fringe, tassels, or bullion embroidery. Epaulettes can be fixed or detachable and are used to indicate rank, unit, or branch of service, though some versions are purely decorative.

Designs vary widely. Parade epaulettes are typically long and heavily fringed, while service or dress variants are shorter and simpler. Materials range from gold or silver bullion thread and embroidered braid to leather or synthetic supports. In naval uniforms epaulettes are commonly paired with other insignia, and in modern forces rank is frequently shown by shoulder boards or chest insignia rather than by epaulettes, though epaulettes persist in ceremonial dress.

Etymology and history: The term comes from the French épaulette, from épaule meaning shoulder. Epaulettes emerged in European military dress in the 17th and 18th centuries as signs of rank and regiment. They spread to other countries and remained a feature of ceremonial attire into the 19th and 20th centuries; in many forces they survive in formal uniforms even as other insignia systems evolve.

In civilian fashion, epaulettes have appeared as decorative shoulder details on jackets, coats, and dresses since the 19th century, and continue to be used in contemporary styles to evoke a military aesthetic. Detachable epaulettes are common in fashion applications to create a temporary shoulder accent without permanent modification.