The Ultimate Guide to Wedding Dresses With Sleeves
While some brides couldn't imagine their big day without a classic strapless gown, you're on the hunt for sleeves. Why? If you've found a dress with gorgeous, intricate detail, maybe you figure "the more material, the merrier." Or perhaps you're in need of a modest silhouette for your ceremony. Maybe you love the bohemian effect of flared lace or have always admired the dainty appeal of a cap sleeve.
Whatever the case, when it comes to sleeves for your wedding gown, the style you choose says a lot. We broke down the basics and formed eight distinctive categories, so you can narrow your search and decide just what statement you want to make.
Scroll through to take in all the different looks, or jump right to your preferred sleeve!
Short Sleeves
Whether you prefer them in the same fabric as the rest of your dress or with sheer detail, short sleeves hit you below the shoulder, either cinching your bicep with a scalloped edge or draping loosely, lending your look an elegant touch.
BHLDN Beilin Gown ($3,320)
Long Sleeves
Long sleeves are straight sheaths of fabric that extend to your wrists, often embellished or complete with peekaboo lace detail on an intricately designed wedding dress.
Vera Wang Alba Gown (available at Vera Wang boutiques, $7,900)
Cap Sleeves
Cap sleeves extend just beyond the tip of your shoulders, pairing nicely with delicate floral details or illusion necklines. While these sleeves have minimal fabric, they actually accentuate your arms by subtly drawing attention to the area, baring the majority of your upper bicep.
Marchesa Re-Embroidered Lace Gown ($11,950)
Vera Wang Lucia Gown (available at Vera Wang boutiques, $12,900)
Three-Quarter Sleeves
Three-quarter sleeves offer a touch of flair for brides looking for a movable dress. This option's less constricting than a bishop sleeve but more exciting than a strapless gown. If you love the fabric your gown's made of, a three-quarter sleeve offers you the chance to show it off just a little bit more.
Carolina Herrera Carmen Wedding Dress (available in Carolina Herrera boutiques)
Amsale Harper French Lace Dress (available at Amsale boutiques)
Off-the-Shoulder Sleeves
Off-the-shoulder sleeves are the perfect feminine touch to any wedding gown. If you've got strong, sturdy shoulders and a nice collarbone, this sleeve type is for you. Cap sleeves, whether slouchy and draped or tight and structured, draw attention to your upper body and neck area — even more than a sleeveless dress would!
Reformation Constance Dress ($588)
Bell Sleeves
Boho bride, bell sleeves were made for you. The dainty, flowing dresses here are equipped with '70s-inspired sleeves that flare out, offering movability and giving off relaxed, breezy vibes.
Badgley Mischka Lace Cape Gown ($1,090)
Bishop Sleeves
Bishop sleeves are loose and lightweight, but they cinch you at the wrists in an elegant fashion. Whether your dress is equipped with a plunging neckline or a turtleneck, you can be sure you'll look totally romantic on your big day.
Vera Wang Freda Gown (available at Vera Wang boutiques, price upon request)
One-Shoulder Sleeve
If you opt for this gorgeous, look-at-me style, the focal point of your look is your sleeve, whether it is made of the same fabric as the rest of your gown, is topped off with a bow or an extra ruffle, or even contrasts your look entirely.
Rachel Zoe Ruffle Maxi Gown ($595)
Amsale Newport Shoulder Gown (available in Amsale boutiques)