A funny thing happened to our dress sleeves over the last few years — they ballooned to cloudlike proportions. Our hypothesis is that puff-sleeve dresses are what happens when fairytale escapism meets stay-at-home comfort. But unlike the cosy, cotton nightie-style dresses of seasons past, the newer puff-sleeve dress styles command a bit more attention. And there are so many options available right now, whether you’re keen on puffed-up tulle skirts or something more casual.

Because this big-time trend is only about to blow up further and wedding guest dress shopping is in full swing, we’ve rounded up the best puff-sleeve dresses that are sure to be a conversation-starter at any social function.

At Refinery29, we’re here to help you navigate this overwhelming world of stuff. All of our market picks are independently selected and curated by us. All product details reflect the price and availability at the time of publication. If you buy or click on something we link to on our site, we may earn a commission.

Joanie Clothing Priya Vintage Floral Print Puff Sleeve Midi Dress, £75

Gorgeous in green, this chiffon dress has a vintage feel.

Joanie Priya Vintage Floral Print Puff Sleeve Midi Dress, $, available at Joanie Clothing

Nobody’s Child x Fearne Cotton Nova Midi Dress, £85

This sweet, sherbet lemon dress can be styled for both day and night.

Nobody’s Child Nova Midi Dress, $, available at Nobody’s Child

Selkie Structured Puff-Sleeve Midi Dress, £268

With a fabulous floral print and delicate tie detail, this blue dress is just beautiful.

Selkie Structured Puff-Sleeve Midi Dress, $, available at Anthropologie

Mango Puffed Sleeves Texture Dress, £49.99

Twist front, cut-out, puff sleeves, crinkle fabric… There’s a lot going on with this dress and yet it just works.

Mango Puffed Sleeves Texture Dress, $, available at Mango

Aligne Harlin Asymmetrical Dress, £99

Gingham is one of our favourite prints and this dress proves exactly why.

Aligne Harlin Asymmetrical Dress, $, available at Anthropologie

Nobody’s Child V-Neck Puff Sleeve Midi Smock Dress, £75

Now that the warmer weather is here, we’re bringing the sunshine into our wardrobes, too. This dress is a great way to do just that.

Nobody’s Child V-Neck Puff Sleeve Midi Smock Dress, $, available at Marks & Spencer

& Other Stories Babydoll Tied Sleeve Detail Dress, £135 £99

For floral fans, this delightful dress fits the fairytale brief perfectly.

& Other Stories Babydoll Tied Sleeve Detail Dress, $, available at & Other Stories

By Anthropologie Puff Sleeve Buttoned Maxi Dress, £130

With a deep V-neck, button-up front and full hem, this crisp white cotton dress is designed for warm weather.

By Anthropologie Puff Sleeve Buttoned Maxi Dress, $, available at Anthropologie

Maeve Puff-Sleeve Sweetheart Midi Dress, £148

This richly patterned dress is destined for beach holidays (or pretending we’re on the coast while sitting on a sunny rooftop).

Maeve Puff-Sleeve Sweetheart Midi Dress, $, available at Anthropologie

New Look Red Embroidered Puff Sleeve Midi Dress, £39.99

For a more affordable option, we’re always looking to New Look.

New Look Red Embroidered Puff Sleeve Midi Dress, $, available at New Look

Monki White Puff Sleeve Babydoll Dress, £50

Playing with a popcorn pattern, this textured dress is definitely an eye-catcher. It even has a bow on the back.

Monki White Puff Sleeve Babydoll Dress, $, available at Monki

Alice + Olivia Tiffie Puff Sleeve Mini Dress With Belt, £545

Alice + Olivia is a go-to for elegant outfits and this dress is no exception. The graphic red and white print brings a beach vibe that would work equally well in the city.

Alice + Olivia Tiffie Puff Sleeve Mini Dress With Belt, $, available at Alice + Olivia

Leem Puff-Sleeve V-Neck Woven Midi Dress, £121

Here’s a puff-sleeved piece for those who love their basic black wardrobes.

Leem Puff-Sleeve V-Neck Woven Midi Dress, $, available at Selfridges

Ganni Floral-Brocade Mini Dress, £295

Ganni is synonymous with cool-girl chic and this bright blue, floral pick is perfect for wedding season.

Ganni Floral-Brocade Mini Dress, $, available at Coggles

Forever New Giordana Puff-Sleeve Maxi Dress, £125 £69

Even though these dresses are all about the sleeves, this one-shouldered style is a standout choice.

Forever New Giordana Puff-Sleeve Maxi Dress, $, available at Forever New

Never Fully Dressed Plus Puff Sleeve Maxi Dress In Zebra Print, £89 £49.50

Animal print instantly injects some fun and this zebra-striped dress is no exception.

Never Fully Dressed Plus Puff Sleeve Maxi Dress In Zebra Print, $, available at ASOS

WAT The Brand Ditsy Print Midi Dress, £90

This blue ditsy print satisfies all our Little House On The Prairie daydreams.

WAT THE BRAND Ditsy Print Midi Dress, $, available at WAT THE BRAND

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