Susannah Reid demos perfectly why the puff sleeve trend is perfect for 40+ women

The latest trend that’s totally ageless

If we have learnt one thing from TV recently, it’s that puff sleeves are definitely back, and anyone can wear them! Susannah Reid wore a hot pink puff sleeve dress this week, and the Golden Globes red carpet had a whole host of women rocking the trend.

This trend has been creeping in for a while, and while it's been all over the catwalks, the ladies leading the charge? Not young models, the over 40s! If you have any qualms about not being able to pull off this trend, let these stylish stars show you how it’s done.

Celebrities wearing the puff sleeve trend

Susannah Reid

Susannah took to the GMB studios in this full-sleeved frock and doesn't she look lovely? We love how she's never afraid to experiment with colour.

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Olivia Coleman

Rule number one with this trend is that bigger is better. Oversized sleeves slim arms so they’re both fashion-forward and figure-flattering. Balance volume out with a high neck and keep accessories minimal.

Gillian Anderson

If you don’t want to go full-length then a short sleeve can still make a statement. Actor Gillian shines and shimmers in this gorgeous gown. Giving yourself a wider shoulder is a great way to draw attention upwards and ensure that all eyes are on you!

Isla Fisher

Another way to style out sleeves is a la Isla Fisher in this Bardot beauty. If you’re worried that puff sleeves might make your shoulders too wide then showing off your shoulders instead and bringing the puff to a mid-level might make you feel more comfortable.

Reese Witherspoon

If we still haven’t convinced you that you can go full-on puff, then make like Reese and start slowly with your shoulders. Hopefully you can ease yourself in before going full out frills.

How to wear the puff sleeves without feeling silly

Puff sleeves are quite a statement. Stick to these rules and you'll feel stylish not silly:

  • Keep colours simple - notice that all the celebrities above are wearing one block colour. You can wear two colours, but keep them tonal
  • Don't wear jewellery, or if you must, chose simple, subtle earrings and rings. Necklaces make the look too much and seem old fashioned
  • Go for statement shoes, a striking detail on top and bottom will balance the outfit out
  • Make use of proportions, if you're going big on the sleeves then opt for flattering cuts and details in the centre to draw you in such, as wraps, darts or buttons

High street puff sleeves shopping edit

Statement red puff sleeve blouse

SHOP NOW: Top, £12.99, H&M

Everyday black puff sleeve t-shirt

SHOP NOW: Top, £14.99, New Look

Fancy pink puff sleeve top

SHOP NOW: Top, £35, Topshop

Knitted puff sleeve dress

SHOP NOW: Dress, £25.99, Zara

Green puff sleeve party dress

SHOP NOW, Dress, £65, very.co.uk

Will you be trying the puff sleeve trend? Let us know on Facebook.

Millie Gooch worked at woman&home as a fashion writer and stylist and has worked on numerous shoots for the brand. As a freelance journalist, Millie has written for a range of publications, including, ELLE, Stylist, the BBC, and the Evening Standard.


Millie is also the founder of Sober Girl Society, an online collective of women who don’t drink alcohol. Millie's debut non-fiction book, The Sober Girl Society Handbook, is a bestselling manual to navigating life as a young and sober woman. Millie gave up alcohol back in February 2018 and has since dedicated her career to changing perceptions around sobriety.