Everything About Sleeves

Sleeves can make and break your decision to buy a gown. Whether you want sleeves because you are getting married in a cold climate, whether you are self-conscious about your arms (which you absolutely do not need to be and if anyone has a problem with that then they should not be invited to your wedding but I do get it) or whether you just love the look of it - there are so many types, styles, vibes, materials, lengths. It's important to let your stylist know what type of look you are wanting and ask them for options. A lot designers will make sleeves for you to however you would like but others don't. Thankfully, a lot of amazing dress makers can accommodate this and will be able to create a sleeve for you. In this case, maybe ask your bridal stylist if it is possible to purchase extra fabric. 

Now there are a lot of types of sleeves out there so I have just included the most common types to make it easier and grouped them together. Happy researching and don't forget to save your favourite!

Cap Sleeve

A cap sleeve is the "shortest" sleeve that you are going to get on a wedding dress. Anything smaller than that I would refer to as a strap. A cap sleeve is usually a little piece of material that only covers the top portion of your arm. It's not as super common on a lot of new collections but is a great option for anyone wanting to minimise the look the of their shoulders or to offer a little bit of coverage whether that's because you are a little conscious of that area, or you are needing to cover up for religious reasons. A cap sleeve is great if you are wanting to look classical and conservative. 

Off-the-Shoulder

I find that off-shoulder sleeves are super flattering on a lot of body types. I love putting my bigger chested girls in this style as it keeps the chest and tops of the shoulders nice and open (you would thing having that open would add to the boobage but surprisingly no!) creating a really elegant look. I also find that a lot of brides like this style as it gives a little bit of coverage (breaking the arm up) without having a full on sleeve. This is a super versatile option as it can go with almost any vibe - but remember (and I can't stress this enough) be sure to get them detachable as there is nothing worse than being a little restricted on a day where you are constantly hugging people!

Puff Sleeves

Whether they are detachable or part of the gown - I love me a puff sleeve! Obviously it takes the right gown for this to be pulled off but it creates such a dramatic, classical look. Have it on a ballgown and become a real life Cinderella, add it to an a-line for a sweet, whimsical look or on a form fitting gown to create edge. This option is great for the arm-conscious or my dramatic girlies

Long Sleeves (Tight)

I love it when my brides want to really lean into a winter wedding and loves the idea of long sleeves. I will give a quick PSA on this though - sometimes these dresses can be a little hard to shop for because a lot of the time, these sleeves do not stretch and can be super hard to get into. However, the effect that a long sleeve can make...chefs kiss. Long sleeves can be really versatile - you can have beaded, satin, crepe, illusion etc. Opt for this style if you are getting married in the cooler months or wanting to create a really cool, elegant and modern look.

Long Sleeve (Loose)

A long, loose, billowy sleeve can elevate any wedding look. It can add a bit of whimsicalness, boho and even a grand look! Usually done in a less heavy material such as tulle, chiffon or organza. Lean into the princess look and opt for one of these!

Bell Sleeves

When I think of boho, I think big old bell sleeves. These are full length sleeves that are larger at the opening than at the shoulder. I love a bell sleeve done in a heady material so that they really hold their shape - and obviously the longer the better! Just make sure you push them back when it's dinner time otherwise you will be getting some leftovers on the edges! This style as well would be great detachable for that very reason.