There’s a pair in every outfit. Well, except when there’s not. Yet they can mean the difference between a flattering look and one that falls flat, or, worse, looks unflattering or “off.” It’s the humble sleeve, and there’s more to it than you think.
And no, I’m not talking about shoes.
Who ever heard of an outfit without shoes? Sheesh. I’m talking about sleeves.
And I tell you how I REALLY feel about 3/4 sleeves. (Is a 3/4 length to the sleeve the same thing that a capri is to a pant?)
I answer these and your other burning sleeve questions in today’s video. You’ll learn everything you need to know to pick the most flattering sleeve for your body. There’s more to this clothing detail than a couple of inches of fabric.
Warning: I rather dramatically implore you to like your arms in this video. I apologize in advance for anyone this may offend. ;)
And now, on to sleeves.
Sleeve Styles
Choose an angled or diagonal sleeve.
An angled sleeve, particularly one that goes up at the outside of the arm, is much more flattering on most arms than a straight across sleeve.
Beware of Sheer Sleeves
Sheer sleeves can be tricky. They can either look too tight, and like you’re stuffed into them, or too loose, and like extra skin. They have to fit right to look flattering.
Watch Out For Cap Sleeves
This sleeve style can make the longest slimmest arms look stockier.
Voluminous Sleeves Make You Look Voluminous
Sad but true, the fun frilly sleeves add visual weight to your frame.
Shoulder Details Broaden Shoulders
Fun interesting details at the shoulder and upper sleeve can make shoulders appear broader, which can make the hips look smaller and more proportional. This makes this type of sleeve a great choice for an Orange or Green (Pear) body type.
However, flowy details at the wrist can also broaden or draw attention to the hip area.
Try Drop Shoulders to Narrow Shoulders
If you want your shoulders to look narrower, try dolman, raglan or drop shoulder styles.
Sleeve Lengths
Hot take, but the 3 most flattering and chic sleeve lengths for women are the long sleeve, the elbow length sleeve, and the sleeveless.
Elbow length is your new 3/4 sleeve. And so, for that matter, is the long-sleeve shirt worn pushed up.
Are ¾ length sleeves frumpy?
They can be, but they’re also flattering. Choose a modern style and keep it simple.
Slimmer Sleeves Are More Slimming
Flowy, puffy, and theatrical sleeves are fun, but they’re not slimming. Streamlined sleeves are more flattering.
Cap Sleeves Are The Least Flattering
Even on models. Almost 100% of the time, cap sleeves are going to be your least flattering option.
Embrace Sleeveless Styles
Trust me when I tell you this: Your arms are fine. Totally, perfectly, beautifully fine. You can put some tanning or toning lotion on them if you want, but don’t let them stop you from wearing sleeveless tops. It’s getting warm, and nobody has time for that.
Long Sleeves Are Your Friends
Long sleeves are chic, versatile, and tend to be the least angsty choice with my clients.
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