Dolman Sleeves

BrieN

So. I read somewhere that Dolman sleeves are a good choice for people with more of a bust. Is that a good rule to follow or are there caveats? I keep thinking this is a type of top I should own, but am unsure especially since there isn't any seam at the shoulder. Thoughts?

J.Crew

Vintage cotton dolman T-shirt

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9 years ago

Dressing

9 replies

Latest reply was from

Anonymous

It's funny - I actually think they are less flattering the bigger the chest you have. I have read that too - and just don't see it. I think if anything they perhaps fit better or feel better on women with large chests and upper arms (I have the large chest part) but I fail to see how they look good on most people. My 2 c anyways........

9 years ago

catgirl

Veteran

I agree with Lisa. What does suit me (and I have broad shoulders) is dropped shoulder seams.

9 years ago

Brooklyn

Veteran

Well, that might explain something because I have a small bust and they don't suit me at all. I also have broad shoulders so they can make me look a bit football player-ish.

9 years ago

Aida

Veteran

I have a broad shoulder line and average bust and quite like dolman sleeves for myself, but don't find them at all bust or shoulder minimizing if either is a concern for you. They do give you a great movement range, though! Dropped shoulder seams have a bit more structure.

9 years ago

Janet

(website)

Veteran

I think they can work well on square shoulders, but not sloped ones, regardless of bust size.

9 years ago

LaPed

Veteran

I have broad square shoulders and small bust. I like dolman sleeves on myself. They are one of my favourite ways to add drape or a fluid fit to an outfit, because I don't particularly like shirts that are voluminous through the torso and waist -- I often end up feeling swallowed. Nice range of motion with dolman sleeves, too.

9 years ago

BrieN

Veteran

Thank you all for your thoughtful and helpful responses. It sounds like you all agree that shoulder line is an important variable in this working or not, which I hadn't even considered. I will make a point of trying one on in store at some point, but I'm not going to order one online at this time, as it sounds like the odds are against it working for me.

One of these days I'm going to have to do a body type post where you help me figure me out...

9 years ago

texstyle

(website)

Veteran

I also don't love dolman styles on myself - I have a fairly broad shoulder line but a small bust. I think it accentuates bad posture as well, which is a no go for me.

9 years ago

Anonymous

truthfully, I've not seen anyone who looked smashing in a dolman sleeve. Perhaps, it's a matter of finding the just right brand and style on our body types. I've had a dolman or two and they were just shapeless. I had, however, one sweater with dolman sleeves and it worked because the rest of the sweater was fitted, not loose, very well constructed. Loved that sweater which finally wore out.

9 years ago

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