Styling a Bell Sleeve Dress

The bell sleeve dress is a timeless look that adds graceful elegance to any ensemble. Dresses with bell sleeves have been worn by women since Medieval times when exotic Middle Eastern styles were imported into Europe.

Back then, the bell sleeve was long and flowing, adding to the drama and exuberance of wealthy women’s gowns. From ethereal to billowing, the statement sleeve has stayed popular throughout the ages. Today’s designs often take a more structured approach, without detracting from the flair and femininity that the style is known for.

How to Wear a Bell Sleeve Dress

How to wear a flowy sleeve dress will depend on the style you go for. A structured shift dress with bell sleeves is ideal for the office and looks good with low-heeled sandals or pumps. Meanwhile, a looser-fitting A-line style would work with sandals for a summer’s day out, and a pencil style paired with heels and a crossbody bag is a cosmopolitan look for a wedding or work event. Bell sleeves can be quite the statement, to remember to let them shine by paring down your accessories.

In winter, you may need to pair your bell sleeve dress with a jacket, which can be tricky. Rather than trying to stuff voluminous sleeves inside your coat, embrace the style even further by opting for a cropped style that cuts off at the elbows. You can then pull your bell sleeves out from underneath.

OMARU Tenneh Flowy-Sleeve Pocketed-Skirt Dress

Tenneh is a very special design inspired by OMARU’s late sister. Having lived a happy life, Tenneh is remembered as a woman who approached every endeavor with vigor and enthusiasm. Just like her dedicated dress, she loved to make a statement with bold styles, in bright happy shades to reflect her cheerful personality.

The flowing sleeves on Tenneh represent her open heart, accepting of everything and everyone around her. Meanwhile, the addition of pockets symbolizes her constant composure. The dress is expertly finished with the utmost attention to detail, with delicate stitching and embellishments.

Lilac is having a moment right now, and Tenneh takes full advantage of the passion for purple with this fun and flattering design. Dresses with pockets are usually hard to come by, but this style features two large ones to keep your stuff stashed neatly to your sides.

A high round neckline keeps the look smart and sophisticated, suitable for a range of occasions, while the durable cotton sateen fabric hugs the figure in all the right places. Signature bell sleeves drape downwards from the elbow, stopping short of the wrists with a stylish asymmetric hem. Try it with a pretty pendant necklace and flat pumps for work, or summery wedges and a white clutch for a wedding.

Get it here.