Warmer weather means that retailers are awash with lovely dresses, but for those of us who prefer to keep our arms covered, it can be challenging to find a dress that is beautiful and stylish but doesn’t expose our limbs. Dresses with sleeves can often look dowdy, making it a bummer to try and find chic, cool options. Luckily, there is hope for us all.
Whether you are attending a wedding, heading to a formal work event, throwing a cocktail party, or simply love to get gussied up, Anthropologie has you covered, literally. This beloved retailer has a whole crop of gorgeous formal and semi-formal dresses with sleeves, so you can hit your upcoming events looking and feeling like an absolute goddess.
This dress is available in navy and black, but the lilac color is extra special. Bring those romantic vibes to your next function with this frock’s textured fabric, voluminous sleeves and flowing bows. You can get it in sizes XS-XL.
Promising review: “Love, love this dress. Runs a little small. Well made! I get a lot of compliments. You can dress it up or wear a is. Would very much recommend! I ordered one size larger.” — BWoody
Bring a whole lot of glamour to your event by wearing this stunning satin dress with billowing sleeves and a plunging neckline. It's available in quite a range of different colors, so you can pick the one that best suits your taste and the function you are attending. You can get it in standard or plus sizing in sizes XXS-3X.
Promising review: “I bought this dress for an elopement/courthouse wedding. I wasn’t sure about the color from photos but it is a nice champagne color and the sheen of the fabric makes it appropriate for a bridal option or for anyday special event. It has much more vintage sophisticated old Hollywood glamour than I would have guessed from the photos, fits me well and very flattering. I often wear XS or S. XS was too small so if unsure of size I do suggest sizing up or getting both to try on!” — daintysteppin
Add a bit of retro flair to your look with this pastel floral mini dress. It features a flowy silhouette, oversized tie-neck and, best of all, pockets. You can get it in two color combinations in standard or petite sizing in sizes XXS-XL.
Promising review: “I’m more of a separates gal, but bought this dress for our upcoming trip to London and Paris. I think it will look adorable with ballet flats or even sneakers. But I wore it yesterday for a Kentucky derby themed party. It’s very versatile, comfortable and cute. The shortness of the of length is well balanced with the high neck and side tie. It is just a little tight through the back but other than that, I love it.” — mahm
Available in standard, petite and plus sizing, this lovely number is ideal for those of us who love slip dresses but wish there were more options out there with sleeves. It has a sleeve tie and gathered neckline detailing that makes it perfect for all kinds of occasions and adds to its overall sweetness. You can get it in sizes XXS-3X.
Promising review: “Beautiful dress! Perfect for that spring party or event. Very flattering.” — Misty
Anthro’s bestselling Somerset silhouette has a cotton fabrication that could skew a bit more casual, but deserves an honorable mention based on sheer popularity – it’s racked up over 3,000 reviews and has a 4.6-star rating at Anthro’s website. The design of this dress seems to have cracked the “for everyone” code – one reviewer mentioned it’s “comfortable, can withstand a hot flash... covers your upper arms, emphasizes your waist, gives you a good neckline and gracefully covers your lower half,” while another (who claimed to own the dress in four colors) pointed out that it’s even pregnancy and nursing-friendly. You can get it in petite and standard sizes XXS-XL, and in plus sizes 1X-3X, and the available colors and prints are constantly evolving.
Promising review: “This is my second Somerset dress and did not disappoint. It’s the perfect length, and is very comfortable. I am 5’4 and 135lbs and I got a regular small. It is a very full dress, but I love it. I could get away with wearing flats with this dress but something with a little heel or platform is better for my height.” — Bbrost
Steal the show in a red number that is deceptively alluring. You can't go wrong with a classic column dress; it's elegant and timeless, giving hints of Jackie O. It can be dressed up or down and will be a versatile addition to your summer wardrobe. You can get it in sizes XXS-XL.
Dance the night away in a statement number that will make you feel like you've landed at the fictional Palm Royale. This dress has billowing, flirty sleeves, an asymmetrical hem and an open back to show a flash of skin. You'll never want to take it off. It's available in sizes XXS-XL.
Take your pick of colors and patterns with this romantic, body-skimming dress. It comes in a wide range of options, from tie-die to leopard print to moody florals, making it a great option for all kinds of aesthetics. It's a full-length knockout with long sleeves and a sultry off-the-shoulder style that looks amazing on everyone. You can get it in sizes XXS-3X.
Promising review: “I’m so glad I decided to buy this. Reviews were correct that it’s definitely great for long legged/ tall women. I’m 5’7 w/ proportionately long legs & the length on this is perfect. Bought size large. I usually order dresses in the 8/10 Tall sizing. I’m 165 lbs, probably could have chosen a medium but I’m it’s very comfortable and flattering as is. The bummer is that the sleeves are short & I’ll have to fold them up but I still love it. Fabric hangs really well.” — Natalie
Available in standard, petite and plus silhouettes, this dress is as versatile as it is cute. It has a deep V neckline and pintucked waist that will accentuate curves and make everyone look like a bombshell, while the button front closure adds eye-catching details. It's breezy and an absolute delight. You can get it in a few different colors and patterns in sizes XXS-3X.
Promising review: “I’m a 36F and this dress gets everything right for me. I find it to be really true to size. I ordered both L (my regular size) and XL out of caution and there was no need, my normal size was great. There is enough room in the bust without feeling too tight. I’m happy the puffed sleeves don’t feel too big, the skirt balances them nicely. I really hope Anthro makes this design into a top as well - I’d order every color.” – Violet
Bring the drama with this fit-and-flare silky satin dress. It has an open back and side slit that add a sexy juxtaposition to the classic boat neckline and flowy long sleeves. You can get it in sizes XXS-XL. It's definitely an investment piece, but one that will never go out of style.
Available in petite and plus sizes, this dress features flirty ruffles throughout, a puff sleeve and a belted waist to help you rock those curves. Can't you see yourself in this at a destination wedding, a fancy dinner at an exotic locale or even a gala? It's a true stunner. You can get it in sizes XXS-3X.
Promising review: “Wore this to a wedding. Got so many compliments!! I’m tall, and it was plenty long. Fabric is beautiful. Very flattering. (Going to see if I can find it in other colors!)” — Alex