In planning an upcoming wedding, nothing could be more exciting than finding the perfect wedding dress.
All eyes will be on the bride, so she must make an impression.
Finding the wedding dress is often the bride's priority after getting engaged. Or the day she realized she wanted to get married.
What to consider in a wedding dress?
- What style should you wear for your body shape?
- The neckline, color, length, and material?
- Should you buy online or at a store?
- Which sleeve to choose?
Attention to wedding dress sleeves reentered the bridal scene after The Royal Wedding.
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From flowy flared fabric to intricate lace detailing, sleeves are no longer only used for modesty but to add a fashion statement.
Almost every collection from the recent bridal fashion week placed emphasis on sleeves.
There were Victorian-inspired bishop sleeves, detachable, modern illusion lace, and many others.
With so many types to choose from, here is the sleeve glossary that will make your wedding dress planning a little less stressful.
With so many types to choose from, here is the sleeve glossary that will make your wedding dress planning a little less stressful.
Straps and Strapless
Strapless gowns usually feature a straight-across or sweetheart neckline.
The dress ends right above the bust and has no fabric covering the shoulder.
Strapless dresses are popular among brides as they come in various silhouettes and flatter on most body shapes.
Spaghetti, thick, and halter straps have delicate sleeves that support the bodice without covering the entire shoulder.
Spaghetti straps are popular in ball gowns, especially with an empire waist.
The straps can be easily removed and embellished to create a timeless and classic look.
Spaghetti straps are the right choice for brides who want a wedding dress as close to strapless as possible but with a bit of bodice support.
Finding The Perfect Wedding Dress Sleeves for Your Upcoming Wedding
1. Sleeveless
Sleeveless wedding dresses are often mistaken for strapless gowns when they are more similar to dresses with straps.
These dresses have wide straps over the shoulder to hold them in place.
They provide more coverage than simple straps and are found in gowns with Queen Anne, jewel, high-neck, asymmetric, square, and bateau necklines.
2. Short Sleeves Wedding Dress
Short sleeves are versatile and the classic style for summer weddings.
They are similar to a short sleeve blouse or shirt that covers the shoulder and goes around the arm, providing a great range of motion.
3. Cap Sleeves
Cap sleeves are short and hang from the shoulder with no fabric under the arm.
They give your wedding dress a cutesy and feminine touch. But when paired with an illusion neckline or soft lace, they turn chic.
Cap sleeves add stability and coverage even though they cover just the shoulders.
4. Off-the-shoulder
Off-the-shoulder wedding dress sleeves are a romantic and ethereal choice.
The sleeves surround the shoulder, exposing skin in a sexy yet chic way.
5. Puffed Sleeves
Puff sleeves are a short-sleeved variation of the Juliet sleeves with a puff fitted at the bottom of the sleeve.
Such sleeves are generally made from lighter fabrics to create a youthful and bohemian feel.
6. Butterfly Sleeves
As the name suggests, Butterfly sleeves are loose-flowing ones fitted at the top of the arm with little to no coverage underneath – the reason they flutter!
Butterfly sleeves are commonly seen on bridesmaid dresses but have made their way back to the bridal world.
7. Tulip Sleeves
Inspired by the look of a tulip, this short-sleeve wraps over itself at the top of the shoulder.
Usually seen in bridesmaid dresses, they are an option worth considering when customizing your wedding dress to have more coverage but with a romantic touch.
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8. Elbow-Length, Three-quarter, and Long Sleeves
The elbow- and quarter-length sleeves are perfect for weddings in all seasons.
The elbow- and quarter-length sleeves are perfect for weddings in all seasons.
The fabrics they use create a modern and sometimes dramatic look.
They also come in soft tulle to create a structured and different feel.
Some churches make it mandatory for brides to wear sleeves for the ceremony.
Some churches make it mandatory for brides to wear sleeves for the ceremony.
Long sleeves are usually preferred, adding a formal feel without going overboard.
Whether you prefer a vintage vibe or a sexy silhouette, long sleeves are the way to go.
9. Illusion/Lace Sleeves
This wedding sleeve option is excellent for brides who prefer more coverage in a sexy way.
The illusion lace detailing wraps around the entire arm, from the shoulder to the wrist.
They are typically made of sheer fabric and are a transparent style that won't show too much bare skin.
10. Juliet Sleeves
Juliet sleeves are fitted in long sleeves with a gathered puff at the shoulders.
They depict the Renaissance and Shakespearean fashions and paint the bride in a romantic light.
11. Bell Sleeves
One of the top trends seen in the most recent Bridal Fashion Week runways is bell sleeves.
Full sleeves open at the cuff and flare toward the wrist, creating a dramatic touch to the arm.
Often, bell sleeves are long-sleeved and add a fullness that is both awe-striking and flattering.
12. Bishop Sleeves
The long, loose-fitting bishop sleeves are a classic style that is full at the top with a tight cuff at the wrist.
This style creates a whimsical effect and is famous for relaxed-style or bohemian weddings.
13. Poet Sleeves
Poet sleeves are also known as flared/bell sleeves.
They paint a romantic and feminine feel while holding true to the youthful spirit.
Not to mention, they look especially great when done in sheer fabrics or soft lace.
Finally, Selecting a Sleeve Style
Choosing the right wedding dress sleeve style that suits your body shape is essential to your wedding planning.
The sleeve fabric doesn't have to be the same as the wedding dress.
You can choose from a wide array of materials like tulle, lace, or netting.
Whether you need the sleeves or not entirely depends on the formality of the wedding and your personal preference.
Most importantly, the sleeves you choose should make you feel beautiful and confident on your big day.
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