Our team just recently got back from Bridal Market in Chicago and one of the upcoming trends we saw were sleeves of all kinds! Sleeve on wedding dresses are not a new concept. In fact, most styles currently on trend are modified versions of sleeves we would have seen on our mom & grandma's wedding dress. As you do research for your own bridal look, we've broken down the types of sleeves and have some tips to make your search that much easier!
Cap
A cap sleeve covers the top of the shoulder but does not extend all the way down to the underarm. Cap sleeves can vary in width, with some being very narrow and others being wider and more structured. They can also lend a romantic and youthful vibe or a more modern look and are a great choice for those looking for a little more coverage but not full bridal sleeves.
Off The Shoulder/Swag
As the name suggests, this sleeve sits off the shoulder, leaving the shoulders and upper arms bare. They can vary in width, with some sleeves sitting just off the shoulder and others extending further down the arm. They can also vary in thickness and are usually removable to increase mobility for the reception. Off The Shoulder Sleeves have been trending for a few years and definitely add a romantic and flirty element to a wedding dress.
Juliet
This sleeve typically starts at the shoulder with a gathered or pleated puff of fabric, which can be quite voluminous. As a result, the sleeve then narrows down gradually towards the elbow or mid-forearm, where it tapers down to a fitted cuff usually with buttons for closure and detail. This can be done with a billowy effect or a heavier modern take. Overall, the effect is dramatic and can add a touch of elegance and romance, or a high fashion, sleek Couture edge to a dress.
Bishop
A bishop sleeve is characterized by a long, full shape that gathers at the wrist. This type of sleeve is named after its similarity to the sleeves worn by bishops in traditional religious clothing. Typically, it starts at the shoulder with a slightly puffed or gathered design, then gradually widens towards the elbow before gathering again at the wrist. The gathered portion of this type of bridal sleeve can be quite voluminous, creating a blousy effect that adds elegance and drama to the dress. Lastly, the sleeve is often finished with a fitted cuff at the wrist, which helps to balance out the fullness of the rest of the sleeve. Definitely a statement piece.
Illusion
An illusion sleeve is created using tulle or mesh and often an additional element like beading or tulle. Most dresses with this sleeve will have a few different color option in order to match skin tones and create the "illusion" look. Illusion sleeves are great options for brides looking for more coverage without being completely covered up.
Puff
A puff sleeve is characterized by a rounded, voluminous shape that is created by gathering or pleating the fabric at the top of the sleeve. These again can be lightweight and whimsical vibe or a high fashion, dramatic statement. A puff sleeve usually covers most of the upper arm, but not below the elbow. Puff sleeves were particularly popular in the 1980s and early 1990's. Since then they have made a comeback particularly in vintage glamour and retro-inspired styles.
Cape
New to the modern bridal world, wedding capes are a non-traditional, high-fashion alternative to a veil. Most capes offer arm coverage which is why we have included them as a fun bonus to this article. There are many different types of capes including caplets, cathedral length capes, and more. While many couture designers are adding this daring feature to more gowns, brides desire a custom look could add a cape to any dress of their dreams.
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