Bridesmaid dresses with sleeves have come far from the princess-looking, Pepto Bismol-colored confections of the 1980s. As wedding trends continue to embrace the happy couple’s unique taste, traditional bridesmaid “rules” are long gone, as is the propensity to put bridesmaids in the same, often unbearable, dress. Nowadays, bridesmaid dresses follow the modern trend circuit silhouettes, including midis and minis—that’s right, a bridesmaid dress doesn’t have to be a gown—to longer lengths with fresh features like tiered skirts and even the occasional elegant cutout. But it can be tricky to land on the perfect style that’s not too sexy, not too stuffy, and not too showy. At the same time, you don’t want something dull—modern style for the win, with sleeved designs as the best for those seeking extra coverage.
For traditional tastes, timeless sleeved silhouettes, of course, abound, including classic wrap dresses and silky and structured column gowns, from styles with long and languid sleeves to elegantly draped cape necklines. Designs with romantic pleating and ruching or versions detailed lace are always elegant for more formal weddings in any season, whether you crave a cap sleeve, billowing bishop shape, or fluttering feminine sleeve. Similarly, satin, velvet, brocade, and metallic-flecked iterations with sleeves are flawless for formal or black-tie I do’s timed to the fall and holiday season. For springtime celebrations, nothing beats fresh floral bridesmaid dresses and pastel colors. The same goes for summer nuptials, wherein bright tones and splashier motifs feel apropos, particularly for a destination wedding.
Ahead, scroll on to discover 30 of the best bridesmaid dresses with sleeves to shop now.
Light Floral
Don’t be deterred by a white, ivory, or cream-colored floral dress for bridesmaids. The airy palette is utterly enchanting for spring and summer weddings with a classic white and greenery-inspired palette.
Gown
When seeking a floor-length gown, look to sleeved silhouettes with modern touches like a minimalist shape, romantic design with pleating and tiers, or even an elegantly placed cutout that feels particularly on the mark for warm-weather weddings.
Wrap
A wrap dress never fails, especially as a bridesmaid—it’s one you can easily wear again and again long after a wedding, whether you choose a style with long silky sleeves, short fluttery flanges, or romantically gathered puff sleeves.
Puff Sleeves
Puff-sleeve bridesmaid dresses have come a long way. Modern designs feel inherently romantic for weddings, whether you choose a design with a fluid A-line skirt, corseted waist, pleated tiers, or smocking.
Tiered
Romantic tiers of tulle, lace, chiffon, and taffeta personify romance for a wedding. So, why not embrace the look with a sleeved bridesmaid dress featuring cap sleeves, long sleeves, or darling puffs?
