Top Sleeves
Sleeves change a top's mood as much as its neckline, from a plain short sleeve to a dramatic puff. This hub explains the named sleeve types so a product name tells you the shape. Browse women's tops and blouses (/collections/womens-tops-blouses).
Short and simple
Sleeveless
A top with no sleeve, cut at the shoulder or strap.
What defines it
A sleeveless top has the armhole finished at the shoulder or on straps, with no sleeve at all.
Who it suits
It suits summer and layering. Browse women's t-shirts and vests (/collections/womens-t-shirts-vests).
Cap Sleeve
A very short sleeve that just covers the shoulder.
What defines it
A cap sleeve is a small sleeve covering only the top of the shoulder, giving a little coverage without length.
Who it suits
It suits a neat, feminine short-sleeve look.
Short Sleeve
A sleeve ending around the mid-upper arm.
What defines it
A short sleeve finishes on the upper arm, the classic tee and blouse length for warmer days.
Who it suits
It suits everyday casual and smart-casual wear.
Flutter Sleeve
A short, loose sleeve that flares softly.
What defines it
A flutter sleeve is a short, unstructured sleeve that ripples out over the arm for a soft, floaty effect.
Who it suits
It suits pretty, summery blouses. Browse women's tops and blouses (/collections/womens-tops-blouses).
Long and statement
Three-Quarter Sleeve
A sleeve ending between the elbow and wrist.
What defines it
A three-quarter sleeve finishes on the forearm, midway between elbow and wrist, for light coverage.
Who it suits
It suits transitional weather and a neat line.
Long Sleeve
A full sleeve reaching the wrist.
What defines it
A long sleeve runs the full length of the arm to the wrist, for warmth and coverage.
Who it suits
It suits cooler days and layering. Browse women's tops and blouses (/collections/womens-tops-blouses).
Puff Sleeve
A sleeve gathered for volume at the shoulder or cuff.
What defines it
A puff sleeve is gathered to balloon out at the shoulder, the cuff or both, adding a romantic, statement shape.
Who it suits
It suits a feminine, on-trend look.
Bishop Sleeve
A full sleeve gathered into a cuff at the wrist.
What defines it
A bishop sleeve is loose and full down the arm then gathered into a fitted cuff at the wrist for soft drama.
Who it suits
It suits blouses with a romantic feel.
Bell Sleeve
A sleeve that flares out towards the wrist.
What defines it
A bell sleeve fits the upper arm then widens into a bell shape at the wrist, giving movement and flair.
Who it suits
It suits a boho or occasion look.
Batwing Sleeve
A deep, loose sleeve cut in one with the body.
What defines it
A batwing, or dolman, sleeve is wide and deep under the arm, cut in one with the body for a draped, relaxed shape.
Who it suits
It suits soft, easy knits and tops.
Frequently asked questions
What is a bishop sleeve?
A bishop sleeve is full and loose down the length of the arm, then gathered into a fitted cuff at the wrist. It creates soft volume and a romantic feel, and is common on blouses in fluid fabrics like viscose and chiffon.
What is the difference between a puff and a bell sleeve?
A puff sleeve gathers to balloon out at the shoulder or cuff, adding volume near the top or end of the sleeve. A bell sleeve fits the upper arm then flares out only at the wrist like a bell. Puff sleeves lift the shoulder, bell sleeves open at the hand.
What is a batwing sleeve?
A batwing, or dolman, sleeve is deep and wide under the arm and cut in one piece with the body rather than set in at the shoulder. It gives a draped, relaxed shape and plenty of movement, common on soft knits and jersey tops.