IIt’s a misguided fashion myth that sleeves on a wedding gown need be reserved only for a Winter Bride. These days, bridal sleeves can and should be seen in all seasons, all weather conditions and across all the incredible bridal styles available to a contemporary bride.
Bridal sleeves can of course provide warmth and flattering coverage, but they can also be embraced as an opportunity to make a beautiful statement feature and modernise any look. This Spring we can expect bridal designers to showcase an exciting variety of sleeves in luxurious fabrics, varying lengths and shapes and with often intricate and stunning detail. The challenge? Finding the correct sleeve for you that will complement your shape and personality without compromising the style of the dress you have always dreamed of.
Here are 6 Stunning sleeve design trends to consider this Spring
Dreamy Tulle Sleeve
Whether it’s an homage to “80’s fashion” or a traditional Renaissance style, the stunning puff tulle sleeve is a modern-day winner! Any voluminous sleeve, whether constructed from chiffon, tulle or queen satin, is best suited to a slim-line silhouette such as a mermaid, trumpet, sheath or column style gown. The tulle sleeve will add romance and femininity to any look. The modern sheer sleeve is perfect for elegant garden or beach weddings as the transparency adds formality but allows for breathability during the warmer months.
The French Lace Sleeve
The classic French lace sleeve transcends all seasons. French Chantilly laces are absolutely stunning, but their intricate details and delicate nature definitely mean they give off a more traditional vibe. The beauty of a Spring wedding is there is usually a good balance of warmth and cool, making a longer sleeve totally appropriate. Expect to see wonderful marriages of modern geometric patterns and more romantic florals and lattice detailing in this Spring’s bridal designs.
Image via Amanda Wakele
Seamless Tailored Sleeve
The Duchess Of Sussex, Meghan Markle has definitely played a hand in bringing this stunning “less is more” look back with her custom Givenchy wedding dress. And a simple sleeve in a silk satin material might just be the perfect addition to your custom gown.
TIP: a ¾ length sleeve is the most flattering length for everyone as it creates the illusion of length. However, a full length sleeve looks beautiful and elegant when hemmed slightly above the wrist and paired with a simpler, non-embellished gown. Keep in mind that a long sleeve can draw attention to the hip area when your arms are by your side. To avoid this, add some embellishment and detail away from this area that will draw the eye elsewhere.
The Polka Dot Edition
This year there has been a huge demand for embroidered tulles as bride’s are moving away from more traditional floral laces. Embroidered laces are extremely feminine and are available in a wide variety of contemporary styles and patterns, often featuring geometric lines with a romantic leaf pattern to add a delicate and feminine touch. You can also expect to see a lot of embroidered polka dots this Spring! We are just loving this modern twist on an old classic!
Extravagant Statement Sleeve
Fall/Winter 2019 was all about the statement sleeve and we absolutely loved it. And this trend is looking like it’s here to stay in Spring. Whether it be a unique voluminous shaped, flared or beaded, this is the perfect addition to any look. This stunning flared sleeve gown, pictured below, showcases the complimentary contrast between silk organza and a subtle hail spot tulle.
The layered neckline extends into a dramatic, but somehow still soft, bell sleeve, tying it back to the tailored fit and flare skirt. A statement sleeve doesn’t necessarily mean heavy embellishments. It could be as simple as a pure silk fabric, cut in a unique way to add a special, contemporary touch.
Touch of 3D
Previously, 3D florals have been extremely popular with brides looking to add a texture and dimension, as have capes, veils and trains. However this Spring, we can expect to see a different take on the trend. Instead of laser cut fabric florals, designers are looking to more subtle and traditional methods of bringing texture into bridal designs.
The antique gold coloured thread, seen in the stunning gown pictured below, adds contrast against the ivory fabric and could easily be used to create a statement without having to over-embellish. If you’re wanting to achieve this same look, you could also opt for a fine tulle or georgette base, with a hand applied embroidered floral lace or beading.
Ms Zebra Says: What a gorgeous array of dresses – and I must say, I personally love a sleeve! Thanks d’Italia for this wonderful look at Spring sleeve fashion!
About the author D’Italia: Bridal couture and custom made wedding dresses are a specialty of d’Italia. Whether you are looking for a vintage wedding dress stores in Melbourne, a lace wedding dress or any style at all – you are assured the exact bridal style you want, with custom-built corsetry to fit you perfectly, at a fraction of the cost of bridal-boutique gowns.
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