As the owner of gangly, clumsy limbs, I’m slightly self-conscious about my arms, particularly in summer, as I can only assume I look like Mr. Tickle when I wear a strappy top. However, no need for violins, as I'm thrilled about and ready to embrace this season's biggest trend – the statement sleeve – with both arms. From billowing to bell shaped, SS17's eye-catching sleeves come in many manifestations to suit every taste and arm-type.
Roksanda Ilincic, the queen of feminine, elegant dresses gave us beautiful bell sleeves on the Spring/Summer catwalk last September, while we saw slouchy statement sleeves at J.W.Anderson. Jacquemus and Balenciaga opted for an '80s ruched, puff-sleeve silhouette while balloon sleeves were showcased at Gucci, Simone Rocha and Anna Sui. If you're after length rather than volume, Ellery did extra-long sleeves for SS17, maximised with cut-out details and striking ties. But don't worry, the high street caught on to the trend almost as it was hitting the catwalks and statement sleeves can be found everywhere from Zara and Mango to Topshop.
If you're sick and tired of the work wardrobe you wore all winter, a shirt or sweater with an interesting sleeve will instantly transform the most boring tailoring or denim this spring – and it's the perfect party piece.
Are statement sleeves actually wearable though or is dipping your oversized cuff into your coffee inevitable? Well, from Mr. Tickle herself I can confidently confirm that no accidents occurred creating the images ahead and if anything, wafting around with billowing princess sleeves made me feel more elegant and glamorous than ever.
French designer Simon Jacquemus has garnered a cult status thanks to his deconstructed designs, asymmetric cuts and exaggerated proportions, putting Paris Fashion Week back on the map as a hub for emerging designers as well as established fashion houses.
This off-the-shoulder blouse with bunched sleeves and wide cuffs is a perfect example of the way Jacquemus masterfully plays with shape and size. Elevate your favourite jeans with this chic shirt or wear with high-waisted trousers and heels for something more sophisticated.
Jacquemus checked off-shoulder blouse, £300, available at Browns Fashion, M.i.h Marrakesh jeans, £195, available at M.i.h
Photographed by Ana Cuba.
Spring style is focused on the voluminous silhouette and this poplin top from Topshop with flute sleeves and a gathered body is an easy, everyday way to try the trend. Your pinstripe work shirt never looked so good.
Topshop Poplin Stripe Flute Sleeve Top. £29, available at Topshop, M.i.h Lou Jeans, £225, available at M.i.h
Photographed by Ana Cuba.
This cropped sweater is a secret show-stealer due to the full sleeves with gathered cuff details. Dress it down with high-waisted jeans and mules or pair with a ruffled skirt for a bold evening look.
Zara cropped sweater with full sleeves, £29.99, available at Zara, Zara gingham embroidered skirt, £49.99, available at Zara
Photographed by Ana Cuba.
Crafted from red cotton-poplin with a flattering off-the-shoulder silhouette, this top's sleeves with knotted straps, cut-out panels and voluminous elasticated bell cuffs is the definition of statement. Team it with bold drop earrings and a fluted skirt for your next big event.
Ellery Cyril off-the-shoulder cotton top, £490, available exclusively at Matches Fashion, AG Jodi cropped jeans, £210, available at Harrods
Photographed by Ana Cuba.
We've been big fans of Rejina Pyo's elegant designs for a couple of years and this split sleeve pleated blouse with a neck-tie is top of our wardrobe wish list for spring. Just look at those cute cuffs!
Rejina Pyo Marta cuff detail blouse, £350, available at Rejina Pyo, M.i.h Marrakesh jeans, £195, available at M.i.h
Photographed by Ana Cuba.Like what you see? How about some more R29 goodness, right here?
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