Ask any little girl or grown woman to describe her fairytale wedding, and within the first few breaths she is doubtlessly telling you all about the gown. As with any other niche of fashion, bridal looks experience trends, and one look that is increasingly on the rise is the inclusion of sleeves. Whether it is because of Kate Middleton or the wedding world’s increasing love of vintage, more and more brides are choosing to incorporate this style.
Of course, there are various options available, each flattering a different body type and exuding varying charms. To find the look that is best for you, keep reading!
Styles of sleeve
- Cap sleeves are very pretty and romantic and tend to suit many different women. This style of sleeve is very popular on Renaissance-style gowns and covers just the shoulder. Because it will draw attention to your shoulders and arms, this is recommended for those with slender builds rather than broad shoulders and larger upper arms. Instead, brides with fuller limbs should choose the Petal version in which two separate flaps connect; this allows the fabric to fall more naturally rather than look uncomfortably squeezing into the flesh.
Capped sleeved wedding dress from David’s Bridal
- The 3/4 length and long sleeves work with plenty of different necklines and aesthetics. Worn tightly and they can show off your slender limbs; worn slightly more loosely and they can help disguise any insecurities you have about the area. To add a vintage flair, utilize the timeless elegance of lace or mesh, and wear it off the shoulder for additional sex appeal; this look is particularly flattering on those with wide shoulders, as it pulls the eye towards the decorative fabric that sits below.
Long sleeved dress from Star Bridal Apparel
The majority of bridal boleros and cover ups feature longer sleeves. Consider purchasing one if you plan on doing outdoor posing for photographs during chillier weather, want to cover up some skin while at the church but desire to vamp up your look for the reception, or simply want a romantic prop like a silky shawl for your photo shoot.
- Puffed sleeves are voluminous, as the term suggests. Of course, no one could bring up this term without thinking of Princess Dianna who featured this look an unparalleled extreme during her 1980’s nuptials. While a full sleeve of this look may be a bit much, a cap sleeve with additional volume can evoke the charm of yesteryears or, if paired with the right bedazzlement, a Disney princess. This look is called a Juliet sleeve and, because it is not as common as other bridal looks, can add a unique dynamic to any bridal look.
Juliet sleeved wedding dress from Miamia
- Bell sleeves and flutter sleeves are two incredibly romantic styles. Both are light and floaty and can each be described by the definition of the name. The bell design is a bit more versatile as it hugs the upper arm to hang loosely below the elbow, and can be incorporated into a number of different decors that range from relaxed to formal. The flutter design is casual and unfastened fitting, these sleeves are particularly appropriate for bohemian outdoor weddings.
Flutter sleeved dress from SJ Couture
So when you are choosing your wedding dress, think about what fabrics will be comfortable with the season, whether or not you would prefer the option of being able to throw them on-and-off as you please, and what cut fits with the overall motif of the wedding.
Good luck!
