Details... you can wear on your sleeves!

Placement is everything. I love details in clothing. A little extra detail can make all the difference between a plain white t-shirt and a fancy white T. But not all details work for everyone and every body type.

Current trends are showing lots of details on our sleeves. From bell sleeves to lantern sleeves, bows on sleeves and cut out shoulders... we are seeing it all! While certain styles can be universally flattering, others are not. The bell sleeve style seems to work for most, especially if the bells are at the wrist. The cut out shoulder trend also seems to work for a majority of body types. However, off the shoulder styles, lantern sleeves and bows don't work across the board. Lantern sleeves and bows can add volume in an area that doesn't need it resulting in an unflattering fit. Off the shoulder styles can also be unflattering depending on your face and shoulder shape. Knowing what works for you body type is key when determining if a style or trend will work for you.

You also want to have fun with your wardrobe! If you haven't tried statement sleeves before, now might be the time! Do you ever get tired of looking in the mirror and seeing the same old thing? Ok, maybe I'm being dramatic but sometimes you want something fresh and new. I recently got so tired of my look that I got bangs! That's a way bigger commitment than some new clothes. So you can definitely try something new on your sleeves! Need some ideas of what's out there? You're in luck! Right now, Ann Taylor has a special section on their website featuring statement sleeves. See a sample of what they are currently offering below!

Contrast Bow Cold Shoulder Blouse

Double Flare Sleeve Top

Dandelion Cold Shoulder Blouse

Fluted Sleeve Poplin Shirt

Floral Pintucked Flutter Sleeve Top

Lucy Lantern Sleeve Blouse

Bare Shoulder Shirtdress

Midweek Pick Me Up

Banana Republic, Gap and Old Navy are running a midweek promotion: 40% off your purchase. This is an online promotion that ends tonight.

If you’re looking for a couple of items to supplement your wardrobe or maybe you’re just inspired by the warmer weather, this is a great opportunity to pick up the items you need at a great discount. Each brand has recently introduced new arrivals so if you’re crunched for time and just want to see what’s available, that might a great place to start.

For those of you looking for basics, check out these items at Old Navy:

These linen pants are everything. I pick up a pair of these last year and love them. They are comfy and lightweight. These are versatile pants that will go far in your wardrobe and make a great basic for warmer weather.

Mid-rise Linen Blend Pants

If you somehow do not own a jean jacket, this is a great opportunity to pick one up. I have a Gap jean jacket that I’ve had for years and it truly is timeless. A jean jacket is a staple is any girl's closet and makes the best go to layer for any outfit.

Denim Jacket

If you’re looking for accessories to accent your outfit, check out the Gap:

Looking for a new bag this spring? Whether you prefer a large tote or a smaller crossbody, the Gap has you covered.

Large Tote

The crossbody saddle bag is on trend so here is a chance to pick one up in a variety of colors.

Crossbody Saddle Bag

This eyelet scarf offers feminine detail in a functional layering piece. This is a great add on to any outfit as you’re headed out the door.

Eyelet Trim Scarf

This softspun cardigan is a quick layering piece when you’re struggling with what to wear. Paired with leggings, jeans or even a dress, this comfy cardigan rises to the occasion!

Softspun Marled Open Front Cardigan

If you’re looking for a trendy item to add to your closet, check out the latest at Banana Republic. From bell sleeves to off the shoulder and so much more, they have it all.

This asymmetrical ruffle detail is showing up everywhere this season. From tops to dresses, you’ll find this style in a wide combination of prints and colors.

Asymmetrical Ruffle Tank

Bell sleeves are still popular in a variety of styles. You’ll find these on any sleeve length adding a little extra feminine touch to your top.

Easy Care Layered Cuff Blouse

Available in blouses, sweaters, dresses and more, the off the shoulder trend is hot. Options to bare one shoulder or two are available now! Find the style that works best for you with so many options to choose from.

Easy Care Floral Off-Shoulder Top

Happy shopping and don’t forget to use the code MIDWEEK for 40% off your purchase (exclusions apply).

The Bell Sleeve Trend

I am not quick to adopt every trend that comes along. It's not my personal style. I happen to prefer a more classic style that leans towards preppy with a splash of trendy. (See, I told you that you can be a combination of styles.)  So when new trends come along, I'm usually not first in line. I pick and choose which trends I adopt based on my style and my existing wardrobe. I will admit that when I first saw the bell sleeve trend take hold I wasn't immediately convinced that it was here to stay or that it would make its way into my wardrobe.

Another aspect of my personal style is that I love bracelets. I would buy a new bracelet over a necklace or ring any day. Maybe because of this, I like for my shirts to hit my wrist just right. I don't like when my sleeves are too long, which happens a fair amount. Maybe my arms are a little shorter than the average? Maybe I'm buying regular tops when I should be buying petite? Either way, I run into problems. So at first I thought this bell sleeve trends is not for me.

Back in the fall, I was in Ann Taylor and saw this simple, feminine blouse that looked just my style. All except for the bell sleeves. I decided to try it on. The sleeves have a small snap at the wrist and then the extra fabric for the bell flows on. The material of the blouse made it such that whenever I needed to move my arm the extra material from the bell never got in my way. I was impressed. I could wear my bracelets without feeling they were getting in the way of the trend. In addition to this, I like the feminine detail of the bell sleeve. I'm always looking for detail in the items that I purchase that add something special. This is an easy add to my wardrobe. Its versatile nature allows me to easily pair it with a skirt or jeans. So maybe I was too quick to judge when I thought this trend might not be for me.

Photography credit: Beth O'Brien Photography

It seems this trend is sticking around for awhile. It's even combining with other trends! You'll find bell sleeves in a variety of sleeve lengths (long, 3/4 or short). It has been combined with peplum and off the shoulder trends. If you haven't tried this yet, I encourage you to. You might be surprised! If you're interested in seeing your options or maybe even trying it on, here are a few samples available now from Banana Republic.

Flutter Sleeve Floral Top

Bell Sleeve Floral Print Top

Off Shoulder Floral Top

Piped Flounce Top

Flutter Sleeve Top