5 best puff sleeve dresses: update your summer wardrobe with the silhouette of the season
THE statement sleeve is back for another season, so we’ve picked out the best puff sleeve dresses here to get in on the trend this summer. Puff sleeves are a silhouette that have been doing the rounds for a while now; whether seen on romantic peasant dresses, eighties-esque cocktail frocks or elegant floral maxis. It’s […]
THE statement sleeve is back for another season, so we’ve picked out the best puff sleeve dresses here to get in on the trend this summer.
Puff sleeves are a silhouette that have been doing the rounds for a while now; whether seen on romantic peasant dresses, eighties-esque cocktail frocks or elegant floral maxis.
It’s a style that can be super-wearable and comfy too. Think statement shapes that skim over your arms for the ultimate in summer breeziness, and voluminous proportions that are capable of drawing the eye in and balancing your frame.
Whatever your style, there’s a plethora of puff sleeve dresses available to shop now, whether you’re looking for something laid-back and casual or worthy of an Instagram moment. It’s up to you how ‘puffy’ you go too: there are just as many subtle designs as there are super-sized shoulders, so find what speaks to you most.
One thing we also love about the best puff sleeve dresses are their ability to completely elevate the rest of your outfit; be it drawing attention to your necklace, contrasting with a pair of plimsolls or allowing the rest of your accessories to take a back seat.
Take a look below at our pick of the best puff sleeve dresses to amp up your wardrobe this season.
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1. Best for picnics: R.Vivimos’ Square Neck Puff Sleeve Dress
- (AD) R.Vivimos Women’s Square Neck Puff Sleeve Dress, £32.99 from Amazon – buy here
Did someone say Little House on the Prairie?
We’re in love with the romance and ethereal vibe of this puff sleeve frock by R.Vivimos, which looks perfect for picnics and dinner dates. Featuring a ruched bodice and full skirt, it’s decorated with a ditsy floral print and also comes in six other designs.
Shoppers have rated it highly, with one reviewer saying it ‘looks more expensive than it is’ and comes up ‘true to size.’
2. Best statement colour: Accessorize’s Puff Sleeve Dress in Organic Cotton
- (AD) Accessorize Puff Sleeve Dress in Organic Cotton, £45 from Amazon – buy here
Nothing gets you noticed quite like a red dress: and Accessorize’s puff sleeve dress does just that.
Also available in black and pink, this relaxed and easy-wearing number is made from 100% organic cotton so it’s ideal for the summer.
With a bardot neckline and tiered skirt, it’s a versatile and on-trend silhouette that works just as well dressed down with trainers as it does worn in the evening with a statement pair of heels and lots of jewellery.
And with puff sleeves cut just above the wrist, it’s perfect if you prefer a little more arm coverage while still feeling cool and breezy.
3. Best black puff sleeve dress: Mango’s Puffed Sleeves Dress
- Puffed sleeves dress, £59.99 from Mango – buy here
You can always rely on Mango to come up with something elevated and directional, so we’re loving their take on the puff sleeve dress with this simple but chic black midi.
Featuring puffed three-quarter sleeves and a high rounded neck, the drama really starts when you turn around and reveal the exposed back—we do love a subtle show of skin.
Crafted in a flowy polyamide fabric, it’s a super-versatile dress that won’t let you down this season.
4. Best for summer weddings: & Other Stories’ Printed Puff Sleeve Maxi Dress
- Printed Puff Sleeve Maxi Dress, £120 from & Other Stories – buy here
For those moments you’re looking for a little more refinement than your usual go-to party dresses—& Other Stories is a must for the prettiest and most chic of frocks.
Case in point: this gorgeous maxi. Emblazoned in a two-tone navy and white floral print that stops it from being too busy, the angel cut of the puff sleeves are ultra dainty and flattering.
Cut on the ankle and with an open back, we think it’s ideal whether you’re attending a wedding this summer or planning cocktails somewhere fancy.
5. Best on a budget: H&M’s Light Purple Gingham Checked Puff-sleeved Dress
- Light Purple Gingham Checked Puff-sleeved Dress, £12.99 from H&M – buy here
Hold up: this purple gingham beauty is under £15?!
H&M know how to bring trend-led pieces for amazing prices—and we’re always impressed by the quality. With gingham seen everywhere this season, this cute mini is the perfect way to combine two trends, with short puff sleeves to accompany the check.
Featuring a flirty cut-out section, it’s probably best suited to smaller busts (y’know, so as to avoid any wardrobe malfunctions) and also comes in four other colours and prints.
One reviewer says ‘Gorgeous dress, very flattering’, with another adding: ‘Super cute and just like the photo! Lovely colour and detail.’
MORE FROM SUN SELECTS FASHION
Enjoyed our guide for the best puff sleeve dresses? Why not check out the prairie dress trend with our pick of the best here?
We’ve also rounded up more dresses for the season.
And check out our dedicated Sun Selects fashion section for more style tips, trends and products.