Shoulder Boards

Shoulder Boards Collection

In the context of the British Armed Forces, shoulder boards — sometimes known as shoulder straps or epaulettes — are removable or fixed panels worn on the shoulders of ceremonial, service, and dress uniforms. Serving both a functional and symbolic purpose, they clearly display an individual’s rank, regiment, or corps while adding a smart, structured, and distinguished appearance to formal attire.

Essential for officers shoulder boards are typically worn on No.1 Dress, Mess Dress, and parade jackets, often secured at the shoulder seam with a button near the collar. They are an integral part of military presentation, reflecting the wearer’s position, authority, and unit identity.

Crafted from stiffened fabric with silver or gold cord and covered with matching cloth, each pair is meticulously made to official patterns and specifications. They may feature embroidered or metal rank insignia such as crowns, pips, stars, as well as regimental distinctions including coloured piping, wire embroidery, or specific badges for appointments such as Aide-de-Camp or Staff Officer. For elite units such as the Household Division, shoulder boards are often richly hand-embroidered in gold or silver wire, showcasing the highest levels of craftsmanship.

Across the services, these distinctive insignia pieces form part of the tradition and heritage of military dress — from the British Army’s ceremonial uniforms to the Royal Navy’s gold-laced shoulder straps and the Royal Air Force’s finely embroidered boards.

At Military Direct, our Shoulder Boards Collection embodies this tradition. Each set is produced to authorised standards, ensuring that your ceremonial attire is completed with authenticity, precision, and honour — a true reflection of rank, service, and military heritage.