Sleeve Science

Hard to pinpoint that pivotal moment when the elusive sleeve became an obsession rather than a simple design detail. No lightbulb moment, no big birthday or life event, no unguarded comment – just found myself increasingly picking a gorgeous colour or striking print from the rail, only to return immediately the lack of a sleeve became apparent.

Let me say at the outset, I wholeheartedly applaud every woman out there who does not give a fig about this.  All those ladies proudly flashing the batwings with abandon – I take my hat off to each and every one of you. I’m sadly not a member of your fabulous club. For the last 10 or 15 years, the sleeve has been an absolute imperative, the lack of one is central to my decision making when clothes shopping and can be frustrating to say the least. I confess I’ve grown to love them in all their glorious forms and interestingly for all seasons and weathers.

The ‘hint’ of a sleeve or a subtle cap doesn’t even cover much, but manages to draw the eye sufficiently from my crinkly appendages to placate, if not fully satisfy me. Not nearly as much as a soft, floaty flute, landing a couple of inches above the elbow which I find quite blissful – coverage and femininity being a winning combination in my world. Love, love, love a sheer sleeve on a glamorous blouse, adds a touch of sexiness, especially devoted to a dotty one finished with a statement cuff.

An elbow skimming kimono is a particular favourite. Versatile is a much overused adjective, but not for this star of the sleeve. Naturally it’s adorable adorning the signature kimono jacket in luxurious silk or drapey viscose, a perfect cover up for swimwear days, casual yet elegant paired with a shoestring cami, ribbed vest or skin revealing dress. Weightless and cool warm weather dressing – so important for us ladies of a certain age with fluctuating temperature gauges.

I’m proudly wearing Nico by Melyr today (gorgeous shade of taupe if you’re interested) – a buttery soft jersey top that balances slouch and fit with perfection. And yes, yes, yes featuring delicious kimono sleeves that waft in the summer breeze, not only doing a vital job for me but also adding some balance and movement. Quite frankly it’s a work of art. I may only be working from home but I feel so good and polished which I’m convinced enhances my performance –  subjective I know.

Also in my hit parade (giving my age away) of sleeves is the three quarter, some may call bracelet length that shows off the narrowest part of the arm. So lovely for rattling our jewels and bangles or showcasing a beautiful watch, comfortable under a blazer when the boardroom beckons, a transeasonal layering hero for unpredictable climes.

Texture and touch matter so much – lace and wools, silks and satins, linens and crepes, viscose and velvets, organzas and chiffons – I salute and admire them all for the variety and joy they bring to our wardrobes. The humble sleeve delights and fulfils in equal measure in its many guises, across all these wonderful fabrics, sitting as easily amongst the frivolous and the functional, as the luxurious and the casual.

Let’s celebrate all women’s choices, whether to sleeve or not to sleeve. I’ll be keeping mine for the foreseeable.