I’m all about the essentials when it comes to everyday pieces: crisp white shirts, classic indigo denim and a bomber jacket form the backbone of my wardrobe. But there’s one style that I always gravitate towards when spring comes around: bold, voluminous poplin sleeve dresses.

These dresses form a big part of my wardrobe, and trust me, they deserve every inch of space they occupy. The oversized sleeves and dramatic silhouette not only make a statement, but they command attention. If a dress can knock over my perfume bottles with a swing of its fabric as I walk by or make it impossible to slip through a doorway unnoticed, it’s an immediate yes from me.

And the spring/summer 2025 catwalks agree. Valentino backed the statement dress trend with pretty polka dot puff-sleeve styles and sheer overlays, while Richard Quinn was all about floating spring florals with bow details.  

Whether you’re leaning into a soft cottagecore aesthetic or just want an outfit that requires zero effort but looks like you planned it, this dress works for everything, whether that’s brunch, a springtime picnic or just a casual stroll in the sun.

Not sure how to wear one? Ahead, I’ve rounded up my favourite styling ideas to prove that anyone can pull off this dress. The key is to find a silhouette that feels right for you, and then have fun with it. These dresses are made to be seen, so go all in for the new season.

Keep scrolling for the best ways to wear puff-sleeve poplin dresses. 

Consider your colour palette 

When styling a puff-sleeve dress, I always start with colour. With such a bold silhouette, the right shade can completely change how the dress looks and feels. Neutrals – think warm caramel, rich chocolate or soft beige – make the volume feel more elevated and wearable, allowing the shape to stand out without competing with a bright hue.

To make a neutral puff-sleeve dress feel polished, I like to play with textures and accessories. A suede knee-high boot keeps the look soft, while gold jewellery makes it more evening-appropriate. I tend to go for chunkier, sculptural pieces like gold cuffs and bangles to match the drama of the sleeves.

If I’m in the mood for something bolder, a bright shade like fiery red or citrus yellow makes an instant statement. When wearing a more vibrant shade, I keep the rest of the outfit streamlined – simple kitten heels or ballet flats in a neutral tone, a sleek clutch and delicate jewellery – to avoid overwhelming the look. The key is letting the dress do the talking while keeping everything clean.  

Pair with a print      

When I want to amp up my look for a dinner or big event, I love clashing prints with a voluminous dress. The trick is to mix two (or more) prints of different styles. The more varied they are, the better the contrast.

Subtle options like thin Breton stripes, gingham, delicate polka dots or ditsy florals can make your look more interesting without overpowering its silhouette.

Try wearing this Stine Goya pick (below) with a pretty printed accessory – perhaps a dainty gingham headscarf or a chic polka dot necktie.  

Layer with trousers  

A structured, puff-sleeve dress with a stiff collar in neutral tones layered over matching wide-leg trousers feels like the 2025 take on the early 00s tunic-and-trousers look, but with a much chicer finish.

Layering a voluminous dress over trousers is one of my go-to styling tricks, especially on blustery cold weather days. I always feel like a Scandi It girl when I wear my puff-sleeve tiered dress over frayed denim with sporty metallic ballet flats – so cool.

If you’re unsure where to start, go for a mini dress. The shorter hemlines make the proportions more wearable and almost gives the effect of a fancy top. 

Images: Getty; courtesy of brands