I have a love-hate relationship with puff sleeves. Done well, they add width to my shoulder (making my waist appear smaller and balancing out my bustiness) but too often puff sleeves can be big, poofy, and too “young” for a woman my age. And don’t even get me started on the sleeve band that always seems a bit too small, digging into my upper arm and emphasizing my “arm swag.”
According to a fashion industry directory, a puff sleeve is simply a short set-in sleeve that is gathered at the armhole and most commonly found in children’s and bridal clothing. It is also frequently gathered into a band at the bottom of the sleeve although an elastic gathering to create a little flared is common, too.
Cinderella had the ultimate puff sleeved dress. And I think that succinctly summarizes the danger of adults wearing puffed sleeves.
No, no. Not for you and me. But cute, cute, cute on your Alice and my Emmy and Ann’s little girl and whoever else is under 12. I guess you could say it’s a retro look for a little girl.