A shoulder strap is a piece of fabric used to support clothing or other items from the shoulder of the wearer. Shoulder straps are to be found on numerous items including guitars, handbags and women's ball dresses. These straps tend to be made from the same material as the item they support, and, in the interest of comfort, often have some manner of padding near the middle. Discomfort is normally indicated by constant shifting of the strap from one shoulder to another; however, most users of shoulder straps agree that one shoulder bears the brunt of the supporting even in the face of severe discomfort. Shoulder straps are generally detachable, and are stored in the very item they help to bear.

See also spaghetti strap.