Mimosas and Manhattan | 5 Tips to Wearing Bell Sleeves

Photography by | Laurel Creative

Top | Pasduchas

Trousers | Missguided (similar here)

Heels | Forever 21

Choker | Nasty Gal (similar here)

If you have been wondering why sleeves are getting longer and longer these days it is because of two words: bell. sleeves. You think flares had their moment this year? Well look out legs because it’s time for arms to grab the spotlight. The bell sleeve is the perfect addition to any plain top because it adds just the right amount of drama to a seemingly simple silhouette. I usually don’t feel the need to reinvent the wheel when it comes to classic white blouses, but if reinvention looks this good then sign me up for engineering 101. The intricate sleeves can be a bit tricky to pull-off so here are my top 5 tips to incorporating the trend into your wardrobe without looking like you are wearing your old-school dance uniform with fabric that your mom forgot to cut off.

1.) If you are new to the trend, opt for a solid white to ease your way into the more dramatic shape.

2.) Pair with a laid back bottom as to not take away focus from the drama of the top. A leather legging, simple jean or muted trouser (like I did here) are the perfect pieces to pair.

3.) On the petite side and don’t want the sleeve to title wave over your bod? Not a problem. Opt for a top with cut-outs, whether it in the shoulder or midriff, to show a little skin.

4.) Bell Sleeve mini dresses just might be my new Spring uniform. It is the ultimate casual yet stylish look and says to people, “I didn’t try too hard getting dressed this morning but I still know what I am doing.”

5.) Don’t be afraid to play with dimensions. Sure it is easy to opt for the more subtle bell sleeve but a truly in-your-face, over-sized sleeve is the ultimate the statement maker!

Kelly