Sleeves are Big for Spring 2008
By Nielsine Archibald

Sleeve styling is big for 2008. Plain sleeves are out and fun sleeves are in.  Whether  long, short, or length, sleeves with cuffs, ruffles, ties, pleats, poufs, trims at the hems, slits on the arms, or large and flowing styling are being shown in all the shops for spring.

Shirts, blouses, jackets, and t-shirts are all available with interesting sleeve treatments. A dressy blouse with a flared sleeve is perfect with tailored trousers for an evening out. T-shirts with length sleeves ruffled at the bottom make a great statement with long jeans, pedal pushers or capris. Try a blouse with a long straight sleeve puffed at the wrist for a dramatic effect. Check out tops with sleeves that have decoration on the cuffs or hemline. Spruce up last year’s jacket by adding a shirt or blouse with an interesting sleeve that peeks out from the jacket sleeve. Or, add a jacket with big dolman styled sleeves for a new look.

Since all sleeve styles may not be right for all ladies, think about your body shape and size before investing in a top with new sleeve treatments. Short ladies need to stay away from large, flared or poufy sleeves and do better with a smaller scale sleeve. Larger ladies can wear the more flamboyant sleeve styles as long as the patterns are not too bold or fight with the ruffled or puffed sleeve for attention. Usually, a poufy sleeve style looks classier if the fabric pattern is plain or subdued.  Almost all women can wear a sleeve with a tie that can be adjusted to suit the occasion. (A little hint - tie the tie before putting on the blouse.) T-shirts from last year can be given a 2008 look by trimming the edge of the sleeves. Fabric stores have huge selections including ribbon, beading, and bangles.

Pay attention to sleeves, do it yourself or buy out the stores, and you will be right in style for spring 2008!

Along with her daughter Jill, Nielsine Archibald is the owner and operator of RedHatFashions4U.com and Oceana Fashions in Oceanside, CA. For more about Red Hat Fashions, Click here.