sleeves

A sleeve is a garment component that covers part or all of the arm and is typically attached to the body at the armhole. The upper edge is shaped by the sleeve cap, which must accommodate the shoulder and allow freedom of movement.

Common types include set-in sleeves (the standard construction with a seam at the shoulder), raglan sleeves (joined to the garment at the neck edge with diagonal seams), kimono sleeves (a wide, continuous extension from the body), dolman sleeves (a very loose, deep armhole tapering toward a fitted wrist), and cap sleeves (very short with minimal coverage). Other variations include bishop sleeves (full at the upper arm gathered into a fitted cuff) and puff sleeves (gathered at the sleeve head to create volume).

Sleeves vary in length and fullness. Common lengths include cap, short, elbow-length, three-quarter, and long sleeves. Fullness can be introduced through gathering at the sleeve head or at the cuff, producing puff or leg-of-mutton shapes; tight-fitting sleeves are common in tailored garments.

Materials influence sleeve behavior. Knit fabrics yield natural stretch and are often used for close-fitting or comfortable sleeves, while woven fabrics determine drape and fullness. The seam and cap design, together with armhole ease, affect mobility, posture, and fit.

Sleeves are used across garments, including shirts, blouses, dresses, sweaters, and outerwear. Beyond aesthetics, sleeve design balances movement, warmth, weather protection, and cultural or stylistic considerations.