Sleeves

Balloon

Full, round and balloon-shaped over the shoulder and upper arm, then narrowing over the lower arm and wrist.

Bell

Fitted over the bicep and then flares slightly outward (like a bell) over the forearm. This detail adds interest and something special to a simpler, classic and unadorned gown.

Bishop

Puffs a bit at the shoulder, then expands fuller over the arm, then gathers at the wrist. A very casual and natural look.

Cap

A short extension to a sleeveless look, offering a ‘pouf’ of fabric over the shoulder, gathering under or against the very top of the arm.

Dolman

Also termed the ‘batwing’ style, the fabric begins very wide at the ribcage or waist, then narrows at the wrist.

Fitted point

The long, fitted sleeve extending to a point-shape at the wrist or top of the hand.

Gauntlet

A pouf at the top of the arm, then a separate section that covers the entire arm, coming to a point at the top of the hand. The bottom section may be a full-length glove for removal later.

Gigot

A large, round pouf over the shoulder, then narrowing over the arm to encircle the wrist.

Illusion

Sheer netting-type material that forms a see-through sleeve yet offers ‘the illusion’ of coverage. If you’re not happy with your upper arms, this type of sleeve may be for you.

Juliet

A full sleeve extending down to the wrist, with a ‘puff’ accent at the shoulder and upper arm. Again, see the illustration.

Off the Shoulder

Wraps across the upper arms, leaving the shoulders bare.

Petal

The short sleeves are made of two to three different panels that overlap to look like a tulip in bloom.

Poet

Fitted close over the upper arm, and then flares out widely from the elbow, with long ruffles at the wrist length. It’s called the ‘poet,’ because it’s reminiscent of the Shakespearean era. This sleeve has a heritage feeling, movement and flow, and is a romantic accent to a traditional gown.

Pouf

A larger cap sleeve, ending lower on the arm.

Spaghetti straps

A strapless dress is held up by a skinny strap or fabric band over each shoulder.

Tee shirt

Extending three to four inches below your shoulders, this sleeve type resembles the traditional tee shirt sleeve cut.

Three-quarter

Extending from the shoulder to mid-forearm.

Tulip

A petal-shape, with several flaps of fabric overlapping to resemble a flower. Also called the ‘criss-cross sleeve.’