The Trend I Wore All Fashion Week Will Be Even Bigger for Spring

As someone who appreciates simplicity, I totally understand why the puffy-sleeve trend [1] 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 [2], where novelty is rewarded on the street style [3] 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 [4] 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 [5] 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

Khaite Rebecca Gathered Cotton-Poplin Blouse [6] ($244)

Agolde 90'S Mid Rise Loose Fit

Agolde 90'S Mid Rise Loose Fit [7] ($198)

Wandler Isa Side Zip Leather Booties

Wandler Isa Side Zip Leather Booties [8] ($720)

By Far Celeste Bag

By Far Celeste Bag [9] ($501)

Lili Claspe Baroque Hoops

Lili Claspe Baroque Hoops [10] ($80)

My Puffy-Sleeve Outfit: A Sweater, Pants, Sandals, and a Bag

Getting a little bolder, I tried my hand at the Safari dressing [11] 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 Massey Merino Wool Sweater [12] ($495)

Ulla Johnson Storm Jeans

Ulla Johnson Storm Jeans [13] ($395)

Zara Strappy Mid-Heel Leather Sandals

Zara Strappy Mid-Heel Leather Sandals [14] ($80)

Wandler Hortensia Big Leather Shoulder Bag

Wandler Hortensia Big Leather Shoulder Bag [15] ($1,060)

Sofia Zakia Diamond Girl with a Pearl Earring

Sofia Zakia Diamond Girl with a Pearl Earring [16] ($575)

Jenny Bird Landry Bracelet

Jenny Bird Landry Bracelet [17] ($95)

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

Khaite Ruched Midi Dress [18] ($1,789)

Staud Moon Leather Shoulder Bag

Staud Moon Leather Shoulder Bag [19] ($295)

Bottega Veneta Woven Kitten-Heel Slide Sandals

Bottega Veneta Woven Kitten-Heel Slide Sandals [20] ($720)

Mounser Sea Forms Single Earring

Mounser Sea Forms Single Earring [21] ($175)

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

Khaite Edwina Flared Cotton-Poplin Dress [22] ($394)

The Row the Ascot Satin Clutch

The Row the Ascot Satin Clutch [23] ($990)

Maryam Nassir Zadeh Una Double Strap Slides

Maryam Nassir Zadeh Una Double Strap Slides [24] ($555)

Mounser Solar Mini Hoops

Mounser Solar Mini Hoops [25] ($195)

Stella and Bow Winnie Necklace

Stella and Bow Winnie Necklace [26] ($380)

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.