DETACHABLE SLEEVES ARE THE NEW SUNGLASSES IN A POST-PANDEMIC WORLD
Fun, funky and flirtatious, detachable sleeves are the new sunglasses in a post-pandemic world
Statement sleeves never go out of style. They can make a minimal dress a memorable one. Sleeves have always added stage worthy drama to outfits. Bell, gigot, puff, dolman and pagoda were some of the most loved styles in the Victorian era. Princess Diana’s iconic wedding gown designed by David and Elizabeth Emanuel for her July 1981 wedding also had exaggerated puff sleeves. The global runway has also showcased the most jaw-dropping versions of sleeves, over the years.
Though every dress can’t have statement sleeves of its own, it can stand out with false sleeves. And in a post-pandemic world, the idea of temporary is getting a big thumbs up from fashion lovers, as it makes fashion sustainable, economical and more fun.
I love the idea of recycling your outfits and creating brand new looks with detachable sleeves. SONALIKA SAHAY, Supermodel
ONE-NIGHT SLEEVES!
Detachable sleeves can be paired with numerous outfits. “These sleeves are also called false or fake sleeves. They can be teamed with a shoulder-less or a shoulder-strap dress. Available in styles such as bell, balloon and puff, they come in a variety of fabrics and can be solid, printed, lacey or ruffled. I find them very purposeful and alluring. They transform the look and feel of the garment instantly. They also help reduce the carbon footprint,” says designer Gautam Gupta.
With people keen to ditch fast fashion, detachable sleeves become a great choice. “These sleeves are very popular among Gen-Z and millennials. They have the potential to transform traditional Indianwear, kids’ clothing and even menswear,” says Chandni Khattar, founder of Heart Up My Sleeves, a homegrown brand started by sister duo Riya Khattar and Chandni Khattar amid the lockdown. “It’s a great investment, as one pair of sleeves can be worn with a number of outfits and styled imaginatively in myriad ways,” says Riya.
You can pair them with a basic tank top and jeans to elevate a casual look. They add drama and elegance when paired with a saree
They transform the look and feel of the garment instantly. They also help reduce the carbon footprint. GAUTAM GUPTA, Designer
or a lehenga. One can also pair them with a tube or strapless dress. You can even transform a simple daytime jumpsuit look into one for a night out with detachable exaggerated sleeves.
Super-model Sonalika Sahay finds these sleeves fun and utilitarian. “I love the idea of recycling your outfits and creating brand new looks with detachable sleeves. I often pair simple tube dresses with dramatic flounced sleeves for a party look. I even style my sarees with simple blouses that I team with exaggerated detachable sleeves for a funky spin,” she says.
AN ECONOMICAL CHOICE
The fashion accessory accentuates your attire without burning a hole in your wallet, as you can create multiple looks with just one amazing pair of sleeves.
“Detachable sleeves meet the demands of today’s fast-paced society. People want to look stylish, but do not want to invest too much. The concept of detachable sleeves is both practical and fashionable,” opines fashion designer Kavita Gupta, who customises detachable sleeves according to the taste and personality of her clients.
So, take predictability and boredom out of your wardrobe and give your simple outfits a party-worthy makeover with detachable sleeves. There is a pair out there for everyone!