A Romantic touch. 3/4 length sleeves with an organza ruffle trimmed in Swiss cotton edging.From a designer’s point of view, sleeves can be one of the most creative components of a gown. For me, a well-designed sleeve is a work of art; it combines fabric and adornment into the overall image of the gown.
Above: The long fitted sleeves in cut velvet are an option for warm weatherBesides looking beautiful, the right sleeves can add bodice appeal as well as keep your skirt or sloping shoulders in proportion. Although not foremost, keeping arms warm could be another option for wearing sleeves. Once upon a time etiquette dictated the length sleeve you could wear during winter months or time of day you got married. Fortunately these restrictions were lifted long ago. Nowadays, you can go for long sleeves in summer, short caps in winter if that’s your desire. Be realistic though. Just make sure you have a decent wrap or stole in New York for your December wedding. As for long sleeves next July in Palm Springs, go for them. Ever since Vera Wang popularized the detachable sleeve that ties and unties from your gown’s bodice, brides still opt for them.
When choosing a sleeve, think of them in terms having their very own silhouette within the outline of your gown as a whole. At left are 3/4 caplet sleeves of Chantilly lace. At right, short cap sleeves.
Gowns: AmyJo Tatum