epaulette

An epaulette, or epaulet, is a decorative shoulder ornament worn on military and some ceremonial uniforms. It typically consists of a backing or strap attached to the shoulder, with fringe or bullion cord that hangs over the upper arm and may bear rank insignia or branch symbols. Epaulettes are most common on dress uniforms and are used to signal rank, unit, or appointment, especially for officers.

The term comes from the French épaulette, from épaule meaning shoulder. Epaulettes emerged in European armies in the 17th and 18th centuries and became widespread in the 19th century as a visible marker of status. While they once served practical purposes in certain contexts, their primary role today is symbolic and ceremonial.

Design and varieties vary by service. Some epaulettes are fully fringed with long bullion fringe and a decorative backing plate; naval versions traditionally feature heavy gold or silver fringe and may display rank devices. Other styles are non-fringed or feature shorter cords and embroidered motifs. In many modern armed forces, epaulettes have largely been replaced in daily dress by shoulder boards, insignia, or other indicators, but they remain in use for mess dress and ceremonial uniforms in several countries.

In addition to military use, epaulettes appear in some police and ceremonial outfits, and the term is sometimes applied to ornamental shoulder straps on civilian fashion. The spelling epaulet is common in American English, with epaulette the more traditional or British form.