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Puff and Balloon Sleeves for Spring: Are They for You?
February 10, 2023

This morning on the TODAY Show I noticed Jenna Bush Hager wearing a puff sleeved top. And it wasn’t the first time. (When I see celebrities I like to take notice, because they usually have personal stylists who know exactly what’s on trend.)

The look is fresh and feminine. AND, the these sleeves give plenty of arm coverage–not that Jenna needs coverage. Although, for us more mature ladies, it’s a nice bonus.

But, how can older gals wear these full sleeves without looking silly?

This girl looks stunning in her balloon sleeves, but who among us can pull this off?

Different types of Puff/Balloon Sleeves

If you like the full sleeve look, you should determine how full you want your sleeve to be, and where you want your sleeve to pouf out. Remember, balance is the key when using line and design principles to create the most flattering silhouette for your body type.

If you want volume up top, choose a balloon sleeve that puffs at the shoulder. Like this:

These two photos appeared in the most recent Chico’s catalog.

But, if you don’t mind the volume down by your hips, you can choose a sleeve like this:

Love this casual look.

Here are more examples of chic puff sleeves.

If you prefer a more subtle sleeve, you might like this:

or perhaps a sleeve with loads of detail…

Chico’s

Of course, the this sleeve is not for everyone, but if you have a formal affair or perhaps a wedding to attend, the look can be extremely feminine and stylish–even flirty.

How do you feel about puff/balloon sleeves? Let us know by commenting below. We love hearing from you!

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Sharon White

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10 Comments


Renee
February 11, 2023 at 12:24 pm
Reply

Yes. A little puff at the shoulder would be nice. Definitely not near the hips , 😜



    Sharon White
    February 11, 2023 at 5:18 pm
    Reply

    I agree, Renee.
    Thanks for sharing your comment with us.

Sharon Bell
February 12, 2023 at 8:28 am
Reply

Thank you for showing so many versions of the „puffy“ look. It made me think. I have tops and dresses with varying types…some of which I‘ve had for a long time. Time to try them on again. 😀



    Sharon White
    February 12, 2023 at 11:12 am
    Reply

    Sharon,
    I hope they work out for you. Thanks for reminding us to “shop our own closets.” Who knows what treasures lurk there!

Shirley
February 12, 2023 at 11:46 am
Reply

Liked the showing of all the versions of the puffy sleeve. For me I think the puffiness up by my shoulders or the 3/4 length would work best.
Have missed your blogs.🥰



    Sharon White
    February 13, 2023 at 4:02 pm
    Reply

    Thanks, Shirley.
    I think the overwhelming majority would prefer a little “puff” at shoulders.

Janet Lockwood
February 12, 2023 at 7:17 pm
Reply

I would prefer puffy shoulders instead of puffy wrists. As long as we have sleeves, I’m happy. I can’t understand why designers have dresses with no sleeves, especially in the winter.



    Sharon White
    February 13, 2023 at 4:05 pm
    Reply

    Janet,
    Yes, sleeveless dresses in winter don’t seem to make much sense…unless you live in the tropics!
    Thanks for writing.

Elayne
February 14, 2023 at 11:09 am
Reply

Thanks for showing us the types of puffy sleeves. Maybe a shoulder puffy would work? I do like the subtle sleeve you have posted. Missed your posts, Sharon



    Sharon White
    February 21, 2023 at 11:24 am
    Reply

    Thanks, Elayne,
    It’s always fun to see what fashions are trending, but it doesn’t automatically mean they are our ‘quintessential’ style.
    Thanks for writing.

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