15 Different Types of Sleeves

Sleeves are an important part of any garment. They not only add style but can also be functional, providing warmth or protection from the elements. There are many different types of sleeves, each with its own unique look and purpose. Let’s take a closer look at 15 of the most popular types of sleeves.

15 Different Types of Sleeves

1. Regular sleeve: The regular sleeve is the most basic type of sleeve. It is simply a tube of fabric that is attached to the garment at the shoulder seam. Regular sleeves can be found on everything from t-shirts to dresses.

2. Raglan sleeves:

Raglan sleeves are characterized by their diagonal seams that run from the underarm to the neckline. This type of sleeve is often found on sports jerseys and casual sweaters.

3. Cap sleeves:

Cap sleeves are short sleeves that end just above the shoulder line. They are often found on formal wear such as gowns and wedding dresses.

4. Extended cap sleeves: Extended cap sleeves are similar to regular cap sleeves, but they extend further down the arm, ending just below the elbow.

5. Bracelet sleeves (Three fourth sleeve):

Bracelet sleeves, also known as three fourth sleeves, are long sleeves that end just above the wrist. They are a popular choice for both casual and formal wear.

6. Lantern sleeves:

Lantern sleeves are very wide at the cuff and narrow at the shoulder. They get their name from their resemblance to lanterns. Lantern sleeves are often found on formal gowns and kimonos.

7. Man’s shirt sleeve with cuff: The man’s shirt sleeve with cuff is a type of sleeve that is typically found on men’s dress shirts. It is a long sleeve that has a buttoned cuff at the wrist.

8. Leg of mutton sleeves: Leg of mutton sleeves are very full at the top and taper down to a narrower fit at the bottom. They get their name from their resemblance to the leg of a mutton roast! Leg of mutton sleeves were popular in the late 19th century but have since fallen out of fashion.


9 . Juliet Sleeve: The Juliet sleeve is a type of bell sleeve that gets its name from Shakespeare’s play Romeo and Juliette. In the play, Juliette wears a garment with this type of sleeve which becomes entangled with Romeo’s dagger, leading to his death! While perhaps not the best association, Juliette sleeves remain popular today, particularly on wedding dresses and other formal wear .


10 . Bell Sleeves: Bell Sleeves are characterized by their flared shape which resembles a bell . They can be found on both casual and formal garments .


11 . Cape sleeve / Circular sleeve : The cape sleeve , also known as the circular sleeve , is a sleeveless garment that has a cape – like overlay attached at the shoulders . Cape sleeves are often found on gowns and other formal wear .


12 . Frill Sleeve / Flute Sleeves : Frill Sleeves , also known as Flute Sleeves , are characterized by their flared shape and ruffled edges . They can be found on both casual and formal garments .


13 . Puff Sleeves : Puff Sleeves are very full at the top and taper down to a narrower fit at the bottom . They get their name from their puffy , balloon – like appearance . Puff Sleeves were popular in the late 19th century but have since fallen out of fashion .


14 . Bishop Sleeve : The Bishop Sleeve is a type of bell sleeve that gets its name from its resemblance to the robes worn by bishops in religious ceremonies . Bishop Sleeves can be found on both casual and formal garments .


15 . Peasant Sleeve : The Peasant Sleeve is characterized by its gathered fabric at the shoulder which gives it a puffed – up appearance . Peasant Sleeves were popular in medieval times but have since fallen out of fashion .


As you can see, there are many different types of sleeves, each with its own unique look and purpose. So next time you’re shopping for clothing, keep an eye out for these different types of sleeves!

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