What’s the ‘arm in shopping for a few accessories?
Arm warmers: UK cold weather essential or genuine fashion statement?
So, arm warmers. How did they come about? Why don’t people just wear a jumper, we hear you ask. Well, because they didn’t want to. That’s why. Arm warmers are a great alternative, giving people the power of self-expression through fashion.
Arm warmers are a type of fingerless gloves that were worn traditionally in cold weather, as well as for more practical purposes such as when cycling. They typically cover the hands and the bottoms of the fingers, and generally reach midway up the forearms, ending below the elbows.
Like with anything, arm warmers might have, at one time, been a practical item but they were quickly co-opted by subcultures and subverted into an unofficial uniform of sorts.
Crocheted arm warmers, printed arm warmers and arm warmers with gothic embellishments like studs and lace became a symbol of goth and emo fashion, up there with the dark eyeliner and scornful glare.
How to wear arm warmers?
As fashion caught up, arm warmers grew in popularity. In the end, the way they were worn meant they were not quite gloves and nothing like sleeves, so, they were essentially just there for decoration. And by the looks of things, arm warmers are elbowing their way back into fashion.
Considering so many '00s trends have returned within the past few years, arm warmers — or, detachable sleeves as some fashion circles are starting to call them – make perfect sense. They are perfect for adding a new texture to your look – if you’re adding crocheted arm warmers to a more sleek look, for example, or they can add a pop of colour to an outfit.
Everyone from Dua Lipa to the runways of Gucci have shown arm warmers, so, as always, we are one step ahead of the rest. It’s hard being a constant trend-setter.
Where can I buy arm warmers?
In our online shop we have a great choice of arm warmers. We’ve even got some exclusives. Our exclusive arm warmers pay tribute to the subculture history of the accessory, designed with gothic touches like a pair displaying one half of a skull on each. Like a twisted friendship bracelet.
Our other exclusives include a pair of lacy longer gloves. Think 80s Madonna meets 00s emo girl.
Other arm warmers in our shop include pairs decorated with studs and some designed with classic rock and roll imagery, like the pentagram a skull and cross bones.