Styling a Puffy Sleeve Dress

In 1981, Princess Diana wowed the world with the puffy sleeve wedding dress to end them all, sparking a new era for statement sleeves and shoulders that would last the best part of a decade.

Before that, the puffed sleeve has also been seen in significant moments throughout history. For several centuries in Europe, a puffy-sleeved dress would have been considered the hallmark of nobility, wealth, and power, and is often depicted as such in famed historical movies and period TV shows. Even fit for a fairytale princess, the statement style has been sported by them all, from Snow White to Cinderella and Rapunzel.

It’s no wonder then, that dresses with puffy sleeves exude romance, whimsy, and grace. Despite this strong sense of femininity, the puffy sleeve also lends an edge of strength and dominance – a self-assured symbol for women of power.

In more recent times, the statement sleeve has been seen on catwalks worldwide, with modern takes on the iconic silhouette featuring on everything from shirts and blouses to dresses and jackets. Here, we take a look at how to wear it along with a selected style to try from our latest collection.

How to Wear a Puffy Sleeve Dress

A puffy sleeve dress brings poise, drama, and elegance in equal measure. Therefore, there’s no need to go over the top when it comes to accessorizing. For more casual occasions, a long sleeve puffy dress can look edgy with a pair of lace-up boots, or elegant with heeled pumps and a pointed toe. Try a relaxed ‘undone’ hairstyle to tone down the girliness.

OMARU Puffy Sleeve Ruffle Skirt Dress

This beautiful light blue dress with puffy sleeves was inspired by the designer’s sister Saran, who is fiery and courageous. A woman who knows her mind, Saran does not wait for others to define her, preferring instead to carve her own destiny. Much like many of the puff-sleeve-wearing princesses mentioned above, she is strong-willed and influential. This dress was designed to eternalize that devastating combination of strength and beauty, finished in a sleek and silky Japanese cotton.

Popular period shows such as Bridgerton have led to a resurgence in regency styles and colors, including this beautiful shade of cornflower blue. The skirt features four tiers of ruffles which all add to the old-world opulence, while a sweetheart neckline on the top provides added princess points. A cinched waistline and voluminous skirt offer the illusion of an hourglass silhouette when paired with the perfectly puffed sleeves. Wear it with dainty flats during the day or strappy white sandals and a matching bag for evening occasions.

Get it here.