Rukáv

Rukáv is a term in Czech and Slovak for the sleeve, the portion of a garment that covers the arm and is attached to the armhole. It is a fundamental element in the construction of shirts, dresses, jackets, and coats, ranging from minimal cap sleeves to full-length versions. The sleeve is designed to balance coverage, mobility, and silhouette, and may include cuffs, plackets, or elastic at the wrist.

In pattern and tailoring, a sleeve comprises a head (cap) that fits over the shoulder, a body that encircles the upper arm, and a seam that may run under the arm or at the side; the armhole, or armscye, shapes the fit. Sleeves can be set-in (the common method with a separate armhole seam), raglan (the sleeve extends to the collar with a diagonal seam), or kimono (a wide, straight cut from the bodice with minimal shoulder seam).

Common sleeve lengths include cap or short, three-quarter, and long. Styles such as puff, bishop, lantern, leg-of-mutton, and bell sleeves refer to volume and taper. Cuffs and closures, such as buttons or elastic, determine the finish at the wrist.

Etymology: In Czech and Slovak, rukáv derives from ruk- meaning “hand” with a suffix; the term corresponds to the English word “sleeve.” In garment design, rukáv denotes the arm-covering element that influences fit, movement, and silhouette.