As June is officially here, there's guaranteed to be one thing on your mind: summer vacation. If you've been patiently waiting for your well deserved time away — well, congrats — you've made it. Once you touch down, relaxation is assured, but deciding what will actually fit in your carry on beforehand is plenty stressful. Here's one easy respite: Wherever your travels may carry you this summer, romantic puff-sleeved dresses and tops will take your look to the next level.
Throwback '90s-era trends like tie-dye and anklets are reemerging with full force this summer, and the voluminous sleeve silhouette is right in line. "We’re seeing a lot of brands take on the uber-feminine late '90s and early '00s trend," says Caroline Maguire, Shopbop's Fashion Director. "Sleeves are getting puffier, and sweet prom-like silhouettes are becoming more common."
The dramatic sleeve's summer domination was cemented in May, when it was the silhouette of choice for Instagram influencers like Jamie Chung, Charlotte Groeneveld, and Salem Mitchell, who all jetted to Lake Como, Italy with Shopbop. The exaggerated sleeve was the de rigueur choice for both roaming the streets of Italy during the day, and for drinks at night, proving the versatility of the trend.
"I love the juxtaposition of a feminine top paired with a sport sandals and denim cutoffs during the day, "Maguire notes. "You can take the look from day to night by swapping out your sandal for a great pair of strappy heels."
If you aren't exactly sure where to start, opt for a simple top or dress in cotton or silk — romantic, but not overly stuff. As for brands that can help you give it a spin, Maguire has a few suggestions: "Sea, Rachel Comey, Jonathan Simkhai, and Ulla Johnson." If you want to try out the chic trend, ahead find four iterations to shop just in time for your summer journey of choice.
Victorian Style
Channel your inner Royal with a victorian style puff sleeve moment. The vintage-inspired aesthetic is best coordinated with contrasting modern pieces. Pair a top with a trendy bike short or denim cutoff. For a dress, finish with a simple, strappy sandal.
Off-The-Shoulder
Your shoulders have been trapped underneath heavy knits and jackets all winter, so give them a breather with an off-the-shoulder style during your summer travels. For the romantic dresser, try the trend in a dreamy floral print or single bright hue. For the bold dresser, try a trendy leopard or tiger instead.
One Shoulder
A one shoulder may be out of your comfort zone, but is worth the risk. Try out this simple, yet sophisticated approach to the puff sleeve and give a bit of extra attention to your collarbone and shoulders. Since this look is all about the neckline, keep the rest of your ensemble simple.
Baby Doll
Bring along a romantic baby doll dress for nights out during your vacation. Pair this sweet style with a '90s inspired strappy sandal for your evening look, as Maguire recommends. For days spent walking the boardwalk or grabbing lunch, couple a baby doll blouse with a pair of bermuda shorts and sporty sandals.
