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Which black puff sleeve dresses are best?

Everyone has at least one go-to little black dress. While puff sleeve dresses are made in a variety of styles, colors and patterns, you can never go wrong with a black one. However, they require a lot of care to ensure they keeps a voluminous appearance. 

Puff sleeve dresses can come at a price, but if properly taken care of, they can last for years. If you are looking for a cheap yet high-quality black puff sleeve dress, the SheIn Short Puff Sleeve Ruched Mini A-Line Dress is the top choice. 

What to know before you buy a black puff sleeve dress

Knowing what your body type is before purchasing any dress is key. Dresses should accentuate curves, highlight necklines and flatter legs. Fabric can determine the comfort and breathability of any dress. Most puff sleeve dresses are made from cotton or linen. Fabric can also influence dress style. Puff sleeve dresses are designed in short, medium and long lengths. Sleeves also vary in length, making them perfect to wear for any event. 

Style

Whenever it comes to purchasing a dress, it usually is because of an occasion or season. Puff sleeve dresses are always a great choice because they can be worn anywhere, any time. Fancy black puff sleeve dresses are perfect for cocktail parties and weddings and definitely make a fashion statement. For a night on the town or alluring appeal, try a gathered puff sleeve dress. Because of its lightweight material, Bohemian-style puff sleeve dresses are suitable for warmer climates or those who are looking for extra breathability. 

Body type 

Puff sleeve dresses are a unique style, so it can be tricky to determine which style is best for certain body types. For example, petite body types look best in puff sleeve dresses that have a subtler sleeve and are shorter. Pear and triangle body shapes should choose a puff sleeve dress with extra volume and structure in the upper part of the bodice because it accentuates the waist.

Fabric

Fabric can determine what time of year to wear a puff sleeve dress. While black is a color that can be worn year-round, it may be more common during fall and winter. Casual puff sleeve dresses are generally made from laid-back fabrics, like cotton or linen. For a sexy look, satin and velvet puff dresses are great options. 

What to look for in a quality black puff sleeve dress

Sleeve length, dress length and embellishments are components to keep in mind when purchasing a quality black puff sleeve dress. In general, puff sleeve dresses vary in sleeve length and overall dress length, making them extremely adaptable. While embellishments are a great way to express your style, they can also come at a cost. If you’re on a budget, choose a simple black puff sleeve dress and accessorize with chunky jewelry or bold shoes. 

Sleeve length

Sleeve length is always a feature to consider when purchasing a dress. The length of sleeves differ on puff sleeve dresses, each creating a different look. For example, puff sleeves that fall off or on the shoulders may be more suitable for warm weather or a night on the town. This style is typically designed with a square neck to accentuate collarbones.

Alternatively, elbow or wrist-length sleeves on a puff dress is great for fall and winter. However, this style can also be suitable for warmer climates depending on how breathable material is. If you love sleeves, try a double puff sleeve dress. They’re perfect for transitioning from the end of summer to fall. Overall, sleeve length can determine how dressy a look is and appropriate dress occasion. 

Dress length 

Dresses are designed in a variety of lengths, making them versatile for any season. Mini black puff sleeve dresses are perfect for showing off legs and hot nights. They can be paired with almost any type of shoe. Knee-high boots are great for fall and winter while sandals and sneakers, spring or summer. Mid-length puff sleeve dresses are a great choice if you’re looking to tone down a look. Puff sleeve dresses that are considered maxi dresses are suitable for the beach and warm weather. Additionally, this style usually has thigh-high slits to allow for mobility while creating a subtle, sexy appeal. 

Embellishments 

Dresses with embellishments are a stylish way to dress up a look without having to apply too many accessories. However, this can increase cost. Puff sleeve dresses aren’t typically designed with excess rhinestones or zippers, but different features like ruched material, lace and sheer fabric create the same look as dresses with embellishments.  

How much you can expect to spend on a black puff sleeve dress

Dresses vary in price, and features like fabric, color, style and embellishments can alter price too. For example, a puff sleeve dress that incorporates rhinestones will be more expensive than a solid dress. Overall, a quality puff sleeve dress designed with high-quality material can cost anywhere between $70-$200 and up. 

Black puff sleeve dress FAQ

Can puff sleeve dresses only be worn during certain seasons? 

A. No, puff sleeve dresses can be worn year-round. The great thing about this specific dress design is that it’s available in different lengths and necklines, making it versatile. For fall and winter, try a puff sleeve dress that’s either long or is a turtleneck. Thick cotton material is also perfect for chilly weather because it is sure to keep you warm. For spring and summer, short or Bohemian puff sleeve dresses will keep you comfortable in heat and humidity. 

How should you wear a puff sleeve dress?

A. Dresses in general are a great way to express your style. Complete any look with accessories like handbags, jewelry and sunglasses. Puff sleeve dresses can be difficult to style because of their unique design. For a beach holiday, try pairing a mid-length puff sleeve dress with strappy sandals. Add a fun handbag or beach bag to highlight sandals. On the other hand, sleek hairstyles always look good with this style of dress.

What are the best black puff sleeve dresses to buy?

Top black puff sleeve dress

UIMLK Boho Cottagecore Puff Sleeve Dress

UIMLK Boho Cottagecore Puff Sleeve Dress

What you need to know: This long puff sleeve dress is perfect if you’re looking for a chic style. 

What you’ll love: Sold at a great price, the Bohemian flow style is comfortable and lightweight. It’s versatile design allows for it to be worn on or off the shoulder. Additionally, its sexy edge look makes it great for cocktail parties, weddings, vacations and going out. 

What you should consider: Bust may fit small depending on cup size.

Where to buy: Sold by Amazon

Top black puff sleeve dress for the money

SheIn Short Puff Sleeve Ruched Mini A-Line Dress

SheIn Short Puff Sleeve Ruched Mini A-Line Dress

What you need to know: Cute and stylish, this black puff sleeve dress shows some legs.

What you’ll love: Made of 100% cotton, this black puff sleeve dress is stylish, breathable and comfortable. It features a ruched bust, high waist, ruffle hem and tie neck. The sweet and sexy overall style accentuates the neckline, making it the perfect outfit to wear during the day or a night on the town.

What you should consider: Sizing may not be true to fit.

Where to buy: Sold by Amazon

Worth checking out

Lark & Ro Women's Florence Puff Half Sleeve Empire Waist Fit and Flare Dress

Lark & Ro Women’s Florence Puff Half Sleeve Empire Waist Fit and Flare Dress

What you need to know: This black puff sleeve dress is suitable for those on a budget.

What you’ll love: Machine washable and made of Polyester and Elastane material, its medium-weight provides ultimate comfort and flexibility. The style is designed to fit tight through the waist and flare at the hips. Overall, this dress is extremely versatile and is figure-flattering.

What you should consider: It fits small.

Where to buy: Sold by Amazon

SO® Velvet Puff Sleeve Mini Dress

SO® Velvet Puff Sleeve Mini Dress

What you need to know: This black puff sleeve dress is a great option for those who are looking to add a sexy but sophisticated dress to their closet. 

What you’ll love: Made of Polyester and Spandex fabric, this black puff sleeve dress provides maximum comfort and breathability. Additionally, the velvet construction, embossed material and square neck design create a sexy look, pairing well with knee-high boots or heels. 

What you should consider: The dress is on the luxurious end.

Where to buy: Sold by Kohl’s

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Tessa Schaal writes for BestReviews. BestReviews has helped millions of consumers simplify their purchasing decisions, saving them time and money.

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