IT'S THE MAX
But don't worry, you don't have to be a fan of Jack Sparrow to enjoy putting a little swashbuckling romance into your wardrobe this season.
Instead, forget the costumes and head for the racks of ruffles. Here is just a preview of some of the ways you can slip into some sleeves with style.
- Start with a jacket. All you need is one jacket with three-quarter sleeves, or "bracelet" sleeves as they are often called, to show off all that special jewelry or those wonderful new longer-length opera gloves. This is a no-brainer for those of us who like to stay on top of trends, but in more of a low-key traditional way. Swingy, cropped jackets with elbow-length sleeves are a good place to start.
- Bat your wings. The wider, fuller sleeves are better for blouses and sweaters you don't have to stuff into a coat or jacket. Call them kimono, raglan, dolman or batwing, these sleeve treatments are a great way to dress up any top for day or evening. Just make sure you stick to a slimmer pant or skirt so you don't look as if you're going to fly away at any moment.
- Stick to flattering shapes. Some of us may love the availability of sleeves that cover rather large arms; others may look like they're swamped in fabric. Choose your sleeves carefully and don't get carried away with extremes, unless you're going to a Halloween party as Juliette or Desi Arnaz.
- Layer for more effect. This can be a little tricky, but it's worth a try if you want to experiment by adding a fresh twist to your wardrobe. Some of us remember doing this in the '70s when we layered short sleeves over long sleeves.
The best tip for this look? Go for soft fabrics like cotton or jersey knit and make sure the comfort level (and style factor) is high. Very few of us need extra bulkiness. If it doesn't feel right, it probably doesn't look right.
- Add the thrill of frill. There's no way better to put some flare into your special occasion tops than to make a statement in a satin tunic with feather cuffs or a metallic cardigan trimmed in fur.
Even a white silk taffeta blouse with ruffled marimba sleeves can be a stunning topper for black evening trousers or a black velvet pencil skirt. It's enough to bring out the little bit of pirate in all of us.
Sharon Mosley is a former fashion editor of the Arkansas Gazette in Little Rock and executive director of the Fashion Editors and Reporters Association.
© Copley News Service
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