How to Wear the Puffy-Sleeve Trend
The Trend I Wore All Fashion Week Will Be Even Bigger for Spring
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As someone who appreciates simplicity, I totally understand why the puffy-sleeve trend can feel like . . . a lot. Ample arms, big shoulders, and billowing cuffs aren't exactly subtle. I generally subscribe to a classic and minimal aesthetic, but often find myself drawn to feminine flourishes like pretty prints, cute colors, and yes, you guessed it, fanciful sleeves, too; particularly when I'm craving a more standout look. So, as I prepared a lineup of outfits to wear throughout New York Fashion Week, where novelty is rewarded on the street style scene, I decided to rock puffy sleeves in top, dress, and sweater form. And let me tell you, the trend is a lot more wearable than you may think.
Since I tend toward simple pieces, the bulk of my wardrobe can teeter into humdrum territory if I'm not inventive. But with a closet full of classic silhouettes and neutral colors, I struggle to achieve impact sans the whole "try-hard" thing (me sporting a maximalist look would be akin to witnessing a mermaid on land: unnatural and technically not even a thing). It wasn't until I came across a few puffy-sleeve pieces that it dawned on me; a little volume can go a long way. I can still feel like me if I temper a bold sleeve with muted colors, clean lines, and uncomplicated accessories. Even if I dared to wear a puffy sleeve in a brighter hue (which I did!), I've deduced that minimal extras make me feel comfortable and more willing to experiment; what better feeling to enter into fashion month with?
My puffy-sleeve success story doesn't stop here, however. After witnessing the first few shows and presentations of the week, I quickly realized that the puffy-sleeve trend isn't going anywhere for Spring. In fact, it's getting bigger than ever, with swingy bishop sleeves, Princess-style shoulders, and '80s-inspired shapes both for day and night popping up all over the runways. Am I just tooting my own horn for being in line with such a prominent trend? Absolutely not. But it makes me feel good knowing I've invested in a trendy silhouette that will be sticking around into Spring and Summer. And in turn, I'm hoping this encourages you to try your hand at the trend, too.
Without further ado, check out five puffy-sleeve outfits I wore to the Spring 2020 shows and presentations throughout New York Fashion Week ahead, and shop my looks head to toe. Then, to preview the 2020 version of puffy sleeves, scroll through for all of my favorite moments from the runway.
My Puffy-Sleeve Outfit: A Shirt, Jeans, Heels, and a Bag
I started my fashion week out on an easy-chic note, pairing a white shirt with puffy sleeves back to loose-fitting jeans. For a fun pop, I opted for pink square-toe heels and finished with a snake-print bag and baroque pearl earrings. As a modern take on the classic button-down shirt, this puffy-sleeve outfit formula is perfect for the office (if denim is approved by HR, that is).
Khaite Rebecca Gathered Cotton-Poplin Blouse
Agolde 90'S Mid Rise Loose Fit
Wandler Isa Side Zip Leather Booties
By Far Celeste Bag
Lili Claspe Baroque Hoops
My Puffy-Sleeve Outfit: A Sweater, Pants, Sandals, and a Bag
Getting a little bolder, I tried my hand at the Safari dressing trend, but stayed in my comfort zone by way of a neutral palette. The sweater — which features blouson sleeves — felt perfectly balanced with slim-fitting utility pants and barley-there sandals. For a sleek finish, I went with an army-green bag and gold jewelry.
Ulla Johnson Massey Merino Wool Sweater
Ulla Johnson Storm Jeans
Zara Strappy Mid-Heel Leather Sandals
Wandler Hortensia Big Leather Shoulder Bag
Sofia Zakia Diamond Girl with a Pearl Earring
Jenny Bird Landry Bracelet
My Puffy-Sleeve Outfit: A Dress, Bag, Sandals, and Earrings
This smocked white dress doesn't feature puffy sleeves per se, but the pleated cuffs still fit within the genre of drama in my opinion. I opted for a structured bag to balance out the femininity of my dress, but otherwise kept this look ethereal with white sandals and mismatched pearl earrings.
Khaite Ruched Midi Dress
Staud Moon Leather Shoulder Bag
Bottega Veneta Woven Kitten-Heel Slide Sandals
Mounser Sea Forms Single Earring
My Puffy-Sleeve Outfit: A Dress, Heels, a Bag, and Earrings
Taking a minimal approach to puffy sleeves, I retreated to my neutral comfort zone by way of a black midi dress. Featuring both ample shoulders and voluminous arms, this look felt perfectly stylish for the work day without appearing overly bold. For an easy-but-fun finish, I went with a satin bag and block heels in teal.
Khaite Edwina Flared Cotton-Poplin Dress
The Row the Ascot Satin Clutch
Maryam Nassir Zadeh Una Double Strap Slides
Mounser Solar Mini Hoops
Stella and Bow Winnie Necklace
My Puffy-Sleeve Outfit: A Dress, Bag, Sandals, and Necklaces
My loud-and-proud puffy sleeve moment came at the end of fashion week via this red maxi dress, which I offset with sleek black accessories and delicate necklaces. Though this dress features Princess-like sleeves, the structured fabric and zipper prevented my look from feeling overly sweet. I'd wear it again to a party or event, or even to the office with boots in the Fall.
