Do Your Sleeves Hang Low? Do They Wobble to and Fro? Can You Tie Them in a Knot? Can You Tie Them in a Bow?
Can You Throw Them Over Your Shoulder Like a Continental Soldier? Do Your Sleeves Hang Low?
Now that we’ve gotten that out of the way, you’ve come to the right place! If you’re wondering how to style extra-long sleeves–this season’s biggest trend–more is more. This restrictive style is best worn with confidence and a heavy dose of layering. Slip dresses, bustiers and corsets look amazing layering over a top with sleeves that quite literally conceal your hands. It’s also a matter of practicality. When you have sleeves this long, big and bold very few coats fit over them. So layer up and expose those sleeves. Even knitted vests add that extra edge.
If it’s a dress with XL sleeves, you’re in luck. You don’t have to do much to make the piece work–it’s drama all on its own. Below, I styled my Marques ‘Almeida shirt with extra-long sleeves under a silk slip dress with Junya Watanabe ankle boots.
You can also take inspiration from the one-off looks on the runway, such as Hood by Air, Marni, Celine and of course the label who I personally think makes the most wearable rendition, Marques Almeida. One unfortunate thing: I personally haven’t seen any great fast fashion takes on the structured extra-long sleeve top yet. Everything out there is price-y and it was a definite splurge when I purchased the Marques Almeida shirt. But give Zara another month or two and anything is possible.
Leave a Comment