The Puffy Sleeve

The famous decade of excess in society led to excess in most clothing trends as well. Good examples include oversized jackets, accentuated shoulder pads, and what I consider to be the most accessible and feminine trend of the 80s, the puffy sleeve. And they’re back.People can hold it up on a hanger and shy away, thinking the volume will be too much. I always say trying it on is free, and people should give this trend a fair shot.Remember how a year ago you couldn’t find a shirt without a drop shoulder or cut out? Well, this is the update. I personally never wore the cold shoulder or cut out trend; it confused me and would leave me pulling at things in the dressing room. But give me a puffy sleeve and I am off to the races.Ulla Johnson, one of our most popular designers and the originator of a large portion of my wardrobe, didn’t need the 80s trend comeback to add some volume to her looks. Puffy sleeves and ruffles have become synonymous with her brand from the start.Remember not all sleeves are created equal. There are different amounts of “puff,” shall we say. There is the starter version, the kimono sleeve, and the more exaggerated version if you want to make a statement, the mutton sleeve, and then everything in between.Paired with straight leg jeans or pants, this trend provides the perfect amount of interest or elegance to any look. You just have to decide the amount of volume that is right for you. How far can you go back to the 80s?