How to recognise it
The sleeve is set into the armhole and ends at mid upper arm. It can be straight, slightly flared, rolled or cuffed.
Where it comes from
Short sleeves became normal in the early 20th century along with sportswear and the T-shirt, which turned from underwear into outerwear.
Who and when it suits
The most versatile summer sleeve: on T-shirts, polos, blouses and dresses. It suits almost everyone.
Variations and look-alikes
It comes straight, slightly flared, cuffed, rolled or with a dropped shoulder. A longer version, almost to the elbow, is common on shirts. It differs from a cap in length and from an elbow sleeve in being shorter.
How to style it
- Roll once for a neater look.
- Fuller arms: a sleeve to mid upper arm.
- Under a blazer the sleeve should not show.
- Cotton for summer, merino for spring.
Similar styles
Frequently asked
01How long should a short sleeve be?
To mid upper arm; any shorter looks like a cap sleeve.
02Are short sleeves office-appropriate?
Yes, on blouses and shirts, especially in summer.
03How does it differ from an elbow sleeve?
A short sleeve ends at mid upper arm, an elbow sleeve at the elbow.
04Can you wear short sleeves under a blazer?
Yes, if the sleeves do not stick out and the fabric is thin.