How to recognise it
The sleeve ends at the wrist or just below. It can be slim, straight or flared, finished with a cuff, buttons or ribbing.
Where it comes from
Long sleeves were the norm on almost all clothing until the 20th century, and today they are the main sleeve for the cold season.
Who and when it suits
They suit the office, winter and evenings. A slim long sleeve is comfortable under a blazer; a wide or bishop sleeve looks romantic.
Variations and look-alikes
It comes slim, straight, flared, cuffed, buttoned, ribbed or with a thumbhole. A shirt sleeve usually has a buttoned cuff. It differs from a bishop or bell sleeve in its straight shape.
How to style it
- The sleeve should end at the wrist.
- Under a blazer choose a slim sleeve.
- A rolled sleeve looks more relaxed.
- A bracelet over a sleeve does not always work.
Similar styles
Frequently asked
01How long should a sleeve be?
To the wrist bone with arms down; a shirt cuff should show slightly below a jacket.
02How do you shorten sleeves that are too long?
A tailor can take them up at the hem or from the shoulder if they have cuffs.
03How is a long sleeve different from a bishop sleeve?
A bishop sleeve widens and is gathered into a cuff; a long sleeve is usually straight.
04Which long sleeve is warmest?
A slim one with a ribbed cuff, in wool or merino.