Sleeves…the part of clothing that covers your arms as a functional design element of a garment. They can change the look and silhouette of any garment and, most importantly, determine the comfort of a garments fit. Here is some fun information on different types of sleeves.
- Balloon sleeves, sometimes called bishop sleeves, are long sleeves, gathered at the shoulder, then puffed out and regathered at the wrists. They can be extremely flattering, especially in sheer tops or net fabrics.
- Bell sleeves, also known as peasant sleeves, are usually long and fitted around the shoulder and upper arm, and flare out anywhere from the elbow to the wrist. Some flares end at the upper bicep and are called butterfly sleeves. The flare balances out the arms and makes them look slimmer…a flattering look for almost everyone.
- Cap sleeves, perfect for casual tops and dresses, are usually short sleeves cut to fit on the shoulder. They can have a gathered, elastic or even a loose seam.
- Cape sleeves, where the fabric is gathered at the shoulder and flares out from there, have a full and flowing look…just like a cape!
- Dolman sleeves are usually used in women’s sweaters and dresses. They are wide where the arm attaches to the garment and narrow at the wrists. Did you know that dolman means “robe”?
- Flutter sleeves are short, loose fitting tapered sleeves that fall in folds over the upper arms. The wide sleeve makes your arm look slim and long.
- Juliet sleeves are long, tight sleeves with a puff at the top…think Romeo and Juliet. A romantic and feminine look!
- Kimono sleeves, a loose-fitting sleeve, cut as one with the bodice, affords the wearer a lot of comfort. Did you know that a kimono sleeve is called a Sode? Traditionally and culturally, the length of a kimono sleeve varies depending on the age of the person wearing the kimono.
- Lantern sleeves are long, ballooning out between the wrist and elbow, then gathered again around the wrists. These work best with heavy-weight fabrics to maintain their shape.
- Leg of mutton sleeves are almost like the Juliet sleeve except the leg of mutton is usually all one piece. It is gathered and puffed by the shoulder and upper arm and then fitted on the forearm.
- Raglan sleeves extend in one piece fully to the collar, leaving a diagonal seam from the under arm to the collarbone. These are usually kept loose for allowing better movement and comfort.
- Slit sleeves will have a slit down the center, usually exposing some parts of your arm. This sleeve can also be called a cold shoulder sleeve.
Okay, now that you are ARMED, start shopping!!