Image Source: Amandaferri
So you have picked out the perfect silhouette and fabric for your gown but are wondering how to elevate the design of the outfit further to make heads turn? The beauty lies in the details, and the sleeve and shoulder styles of a gown are the details that will ensure that your gown flatters your body in the most stunning manner
Different sleeve and shoulder designs are suitable for different occasions and can add a formal, youthful or elegant touch to the gown as the need might be. A variety of looks can also be achieved by choosing the same fabric as that of the gown for the sleeves or by opting for a sheerer fabric such as tulle or lace for lesser coverage. You must understand which sleeve styles will be suitable as per the setting and the dress code of the event, and can then choose from the appropriate options based on how comfortable you are in flaunting your arms. Here is an overview of all the sleeve options you can choose from along with the body types and occasions they pair well with
Gown Sleeve Designs for all Occasions
1. Sleeveless
Source: SingaporeBrides
Sleeveless gowns have wide straps that rest over the shoulders, providing more coverage than strapless gowns. This style is suitable for those with toned and long arms, while those with larger upper arms may want to avoid it. Sleeveless gowns are appropriate for casual and semi-formal settings but may be inappropriate for an event with a conservative dress code
2. Drop Shoulder
Source: Vogue.com
A drop shoulder sleeve literally has a dropped shoulder, which means that the sleeve rests on the upper arm, just below the shoulder. Drop shoulder sleeves elongate the neck and highlight the collarbone. They add a modern touch to the gown and are suitable for semi-formal events
3. Cap
Source: promfashionguide
Cap sleeves are short sleeves that just cover the upper part of the shoulder. They come in flat, ruffled and puffed variants and usually do not have any fabric underneath the arms. They provide more coverage than sleeveless gowns and are suitable for all events except for those with a conservative dress code. This style may not flatter those with larger upper arms as it draws attention towards this region
4. Short
Source: WeddingsIdeasMag
A short-sleeved gown has sleeves that provide coverage from the shoulder to the middle of the upper arm, similar to the sleeves of a t-shirt. This sleeve style suits all body types and is appropriate for most occasions. Short sleeves provide adequate coverage and add elegance to the outfit without drawing attention away from the other design elements of the gown
5. Elbow
Source: WeddingWire
An elbow sleeved gown has sleeves that provide coverage from the shoulders till the elbow. This sleeve style covers the entire upper arm and is, therefore, suitable for those with larger upper arms. This style can be worn to all occasions but is more suitable for a formal to semi-formal setting
6. Three/Fourth
Source: TFNC London
As the name suggests, 3/4th sleeves cover three-quarters of the arm and provide coverage from the shoulders till a few inches below the elbow. This sleeve style is appropriate for all body types and looks extremely elegant on evening gowns. You can choose a sheer fabric for 3/4th sleeves for a more modern and delicate look or can opt for a thicker fabric for a formal look
7. Bracelet
Source: Mondo Bridal
A bracelet sleeve is a sleeve that ends a few inches above the wrist and is slightly longer than a 3/4th sleeve. This sleeve style provides high coverage and is suitable for occasions where the dress code is traditional and conservative. For a more casual setting, one can opt for a sheer material for the sleeves to get ample coverage without being drowned in fabric
8. Long
Source: YouAndYourWedding
A long sleeve ends at the wrist or slightly beyond the wrist, providing full coverage while flattering all body types. This is the sleeve style of choice for winter events, but illusion long sleeves made out of lace or net fabric can also be worn to summer events. This sleeve style makes the arms appear longer and adds a sophisticated feel to the outfit
9. Angel
Source: bonmarche
An angel sleeve is a loose sleeve that tapers outwards from the armhole to the hem, creating a triangular shape. When the arms are lifted, the sleeves form a shape similar to that of wings. This is a floaty, feminine style that is ideal for casual to semi-formal events and looks flattering on those with larger upper arms
10. Flutter
Source: DressLover
A flutter sleeve is a short sleeve with a loose fit that falls over the upper arm in fluid, soft folds. This sleeve style adds a feminine touch to the gown with the ruffles at the end and has a slimming effect on the upper arms. A flutter sleeve is suitable for daytime and summer occasions due to its breezy and youthful look
11. Dolman
Source: BelleTheMagazine
The unique characteristic of Dolman sleeves is that they are not sewn separately onto the garment but are an extension of the bodice itself, without a seamline between the sleeve and the bodice. The length of this sleeve can be adjusted as per the coverage you desire. The rounded curve of the sleeves helps to soften wider shoulders, making it perfect for those with an inverted triangle body type
12. Juliet
Source: Namshi
A Juliet sleeve is a long sleeve that is puffed up at the shoulders and form-fitting on the rest of the arm. This sleeve looks flattering on those with thin and long arms and adds a vintage look to the gown. It is, therefore, suitable for evening gowns for formal events and for conservative wedding gowns
These sleeve styles are timeless and versatile and collectively cater to all body types. You should always consult your gown designer regarding the latest trends in sleeve designs and can refer to this article on statement sleeves, if you wish to accentuate your gown with bolder sleeves
Another factor to consider in the case of bridal gowns is whether or not you will be wearing gloves with your gown. If you have already picked out gloves for your outfit then you will have to select the length of your sleeves such that they do not clash with the gloves or vice versa. You can ask your designer to help you out in pairing the right glove length with the right sleeve design
Best Gown Styles for Showcasing your Shoulders
If the occasion permits showing off some skin then you can choose an appropriate shoulder style for the gown that flatters your body type and adds a modern touch to the outfit. Here are some popular shoulder styles for party wear gowns that will accentuate your shoulders beautifully
1. Off Shoulder
Source: Hitched, UK
An off-shoulder style has sleeves that rest on the arms, a few inches below the shoulders. This style is suitable for those with a pear-shaped body because it creates the illusion of broader shoulders. Ideal for those with thin arms and narrow shoulders, an off-shoulder gown also highlights the collarbones beautifully
2. Spaghetti Strap
Source: Maggie Sottero
Gowns with spaghetti straps provide a little more coverage than off-shoulder or strapless gowns and are ideal for those with a wider bust area and narrow shoulders. This style works well for both triangular and rectangular body types and is suitable for daytime events. Spaghetti straps are a great way of showing off your collarbones without compromising on comfort
3. Bandeau
Source: WhoWhatWear
A bandeau or strapless gown does not have any sleeves or straps and the bodice runs straight across the chest. A strapless gown looks stunning on those with an hourglass figure as it accentuates the curves in a flattering manner. It may not suit those with a very small bust size and is best suited for those with proportionate shoulder and bust measurements
For more inspiration, check out this article on gowns that highlight the shoulders
When all the elements of the gown are chosen keeping your body type, comfort, and the dress code in mind, they will come together to create the most spectacular outfit. With the right sleeve and shoulder design, you are one step closer to the marvellous gown you have always dreamt of. So keep this guide handy to never commit a sleeve faux pas that could ruin the whole look of your gown
