How Princess Diana inspired this season's statement sleeve trend


How do you wear yours?


princess diana
Sophie Hamilton
Sophie HamiltonDeputy Features Editor
November 6, 2019

You may have noticed, but the statement sleeve is literally EVERYWHERE this season. There's the bell sleeve, faux fur sleeve, off-the-shoulder sleeve, split sleeve, mesh sleeve, balloon sleeve and one of our favourites, the puff sleeve. We've also seen this style on the runway in shows from Alessandra Rich and Richard Quinn. The whole puff sleeve look is not new – it was huge in the 80s on the likes of Dynasty's Alexis Carrington and pop's Kylie Minogue. Perhaps the original fan of the statement sleeve was the late Princess Diana, who showcased many variations during the 80s.

Diana, Princess of Wales, stands by a car, wearing a white blouse with black patterns and white pants.

From short, puff-sleeved blouses to balloon sleeved dresses and all kinds of shoulder-padded outfits, Diana was the Queen of the sleeve. We can't help feeling the Princess kick-started the global trend for the statement sleeve look and here we are again in 2019 with the 80s take two.

MORE: Royal ladies rocking leather! See Duchesses Kate and Meghan, Sarah Ferguson and more in their biker chick looks

Diana, Princess of Wales, smiling, wearing a striped blouse and black skirt, holding a black clutch.

There are some gorgeous lookalike pieces on the high street right now. Very have a whole host of funky statement sleeve tops in their winter collection – we're loving this deep pink blouse with its puff sleeves.

Pink and black tie-dye jacket with ruffled sleeves and black buttons.

SHOP!: Printed blouse, £40, Very

And how sweet is this polka dot puff-sleeved organza top from Michelle Keegan's Very range?

Back view of a black and white polka dot off-shoulder top with puffy sleeves.

SHOP! Spot organza top, £35, Very

MORE: Marks & Spencer dropped its sequin partywear for Christmas 2019 & it's seriously incredible

This white mesh sleeved top from River Island is perfect for a night on the town too.

Woman in white mesh top and black jeans with studded belt posing against white background.

SHOP! White puff sleeve top, £25, River Island

This gathered-neck blouse will become a wardrobe staple. 

A woman in a white blouse and black leather pants stands against a white wall.

SHOP! Toteme crepe blouse, £275, Net-a-Porter

This gorgeous floral number is the perfect weekend wardrobe addition.

A woman with long brown hair wears a black floral blouse and black leather pants.

SHOP! Floral print ruffle blouse, £35, Topshop

Last but not least, this draped blouse is comfortable and will work with your existing wardrobe. So 80s!

& Other Stories Sleeve top

SHOP! Draped satin wrap blouse, £55, & Other Stories

We're feeling a Diana revival coming on...

This article contains affiliate links, which means HELLO! may earn a small commission if a reader clicks through and makes a purchase. More information.

More Royal Style
See more