How to recognise it
The sleeve widens from the shoulder or the elbow and ends in a wide, ungathered opening. Lengths run from three-quarter to the wrist or longer.
Where it comes from
Wide sleeves were common in medieval dress, and in the 1960s and 1970s bell sleeves became the badge of hippie and boho fashion.
Who and when it suits
A striking, romantic sleeve for dresses and blouses. It is dramatic, so keep the rest of the garment simple.
Variations and look-alikes
It comes flaring from the shoulder or the elbow, short, three-quarter or long, ruffled or plain. A sleeve flaring only from the elbow is a trumpet sleeve. It differs from a bishop in its open end.
How to style it
- Keep the bottom half slim for balance.
- Do not wear under a blazer or coat.
- Skip the bracelets.
- Mind the wide sleeves at the table.
Similar styles
Frequently asked
01How does a bell sleeve differ from a bishop sleeve?
A bell stays open at the hem; a bishop is gathered into a cuff.
02Who suits bell sleeves?
People with narrow shoulders and slim arms; they add volume below.
03Can you wear bell sleeves under a coat?
It is hard, as they crush; a cape or short jacket works better.
04When does a bell sleeve not work?
When working, cooking or driving, as the wide sleeve gets in the way.