Are you a fan of the bell sleeves trend?
I believe we can thank the resurgence of bell sleeves directly to Game of Thrones and this powerful, sinister and slightly crazy woman…
Cersei Lannister who is undisputably the Queen of bell sleeves.
I think you need to be a queen in order to wear such massive bell sleeves. These aren’t meant for doing household chores, going to the bathroom or walking the dog. Queens don’t bother with these mundane details of daily life. That is what servants are for. Thus why she is able to carry off those gigantic sleeves with such grace.
Back in the early 1500’s Kings and queens had someone to wipe their backside called the “Groom of the Stool”. This was considered a very powerful and prestigious job. Here is a little funny video about the position.
And you thought you had the worst job in the world!
Lucky for me my bell sleeves will not require help on the loo nor will I need to worry about dragging them through sauce whilst eating.
I’m wearing baby bell sleeves for the modern day gal.
Thank heavens for practicality!
I’ve picked out a few choice pieces showcasing bell sleeves.
Are you keen on the bell sleeves trend?
Linking up with Throw Back Thursdays, Fun Fashion Fridays
Rachel G says
I love bell sleeves–I actually have one maxi dress with pretty dramatic bell sleeves and no…they aren’t entirely practical and I’ve occasionally had to wrap them around my arm in order to use my hands. Still awesome, though. Yours definitely get the look without seeming like they’lll cause too much trouble…
Debbie Stinedurf says
Love this entire look Suzanne! The sleeves are fabulous…and I’m so very glad they don’t in any way impede your bathroom abilities! 🙂
Debbie
http://www.fashionfairydust.com
Melanie says
Bell sleeves are a favourite. I adore the drama of them. The denim top you’re wearing is excellent.
I watched most of that video – perhaps not a good idea just before breakfast! Hahaha! But the British host could make even the most vulgar of jobs appear rather noble.
Shelley says
I love kimono sleeves on jackets which are almost as unwieldy as Bell sleeves, but the drama of them outweighs the inconvenience as far as I’m concerned. I do love Cersei’s dresses though, especially the black leather one she wore in the last season.
“Groom of the Stool” is definitely high on the list of most unpleasant jobs.
Shybiker says
Bell sleeves are so dramatic. I have a blouse with them and love it to death. I suspect there are some in your regal closet, Queen Suzanne.
Patti says
I love these sleeves, and your baby bells are perfection. I would like a royal groom too, but only for shining my shoes, putting toothpaste on my brush, etc. Wiping is a bridge too far. xox
Evie says
Yes, love the bell sleeves. The dramatic ones really showcase the beautiful fabrics. I’m looking for a blouse with bell sleeves in a solid color, like the blue one shown, or gray or white. Or my favorite, black.
jodie filogomo says
You look very stylish Suzanne!!
As for that video—how did you find it? I must say it is quite interesting!
the bell sleeves…I like them more now that I’m not working. They certainly aren’t truly functional in many cases….although I have seen some that are 3/4 length which would probably work better!!
jodie
http://www.jtouchofstyle.com
ps…thanks for the history lesson!
elle the Elle Diaries says
I love them too, but prefer shorter ones, so I can do things, like feed myself!
So this is who she is, hubby watches the show and calls me Cerisi… hmmm?
anyway, loved this post and the dress you choose is gorgeous.
Love your top in denim!
xx, Elle
http://www.theellediaries.com/
Anna Parkes says
Thank goodness I swing by from time to time to find out what the latest trends are Suzanne. Bells sleeves are new to me, but look very sleek on you. I would never have thought to put that top with a maxi skirt, but it has a polished yet casual feel. Will I find some bell sleeves on my next thrift outing? I’ll keep you informed x
Anna
Janeane says
Bell sleeves and I have a love-hate relationship. I adore the way they look, yet when I try them on I stand there fluttering my arms like a bird. Perhaps it is because most sleeves are long on me which is why I love three quarter sleeves, roll them, or push them up. I think if I found the perfect bell sleeve that did not cover my hand it would be love all around. This post makes me want to seek that holy grail out! I love your outfit.
Janeane
http://www.designingfrommycloset.com
Denise says
What for a job, dear Suzanne, great to know about that anyway – that’s why kings and queens could wear massive bell sleeves! I loved your modern style now, with this beautiful top with bell sleeves and the nice skirt – plus, the hat is really cool! You are one of the coolest girls around, no joke! Looking always beautiful in an effortless way! Did you find the shoe brand we “talked” about? Hope so! Bisous!
DenisesPlanet.com
Marilee Gramith says
I love that you focused right in on the functionality problem. I like the way the bell sleeves look but I just can’t “live” in them.
You look really pretty in this look Suzanne. The hat is a perfect accessory with this look.
I must also mention that your Vancouver thrift shopping video was a hoot!!!
Mariel says
Absolutly ABNORMAL. I think the same as you….I don’t like use the same of others since I was a teenager. I love buy secondhand clothes and bags….and If I buy retail, I always intervenet them…I do this for me and for the planet,,,
Kisses!
An argentinian living in Spain…!
Lana says
Love this look on you, and I think bell sleeves are so fun. Even the smaller ones seem to get in my way though! Thank you SO much for all the wonderful suggestions for Paris – I took many notes!
Vix says
My obsession with what I call bastard massive sleeves has been going on for years – we only have terrestrial TV so Game of Thrones is something I’ve never seen – although I’m all over those dresses.
I did have a vintage maxi someone had sewn press studs into the cuffs so I could fold the sleeves back into the dress so I could wash up without getting soggy – genius!
I like your practical sleeves! xxx
Elizabeth g. Arthur says
Suzanne, thanks for these gorgeous inspirational photos! I would love to swan around in long dresses with oversized, overflowing bell sleeves – but I guess they’d get in the way of the normal domestic activities we mere mortals find necessary. I have a pre loved top I found at the Bello market a couple of months ago – I’ve worn it a couple of times and can’t recommend the flowing sleeves for cooking and general kitchen tidying up!! But…I dream on… xx