If you have larger forearms and rolled cuffs feel restrictive, consider undoing the gauntlet button for more freedom. [2] X Research source
If you have a stiff dress shirt cuff, resist the urge to fold it in half to make a thinner roll (it will crease the cuff permanently and the roll will turn out bulkier). [4] X Research source Fold softer cuffs in half if you really want a thin roll, but remember that folding along the cuff seam looks cleaner.
Since only about a third of your arm is showing, you’ll still have that classy, button-up look. [6] X Research source Feel free to push the cuff up closer to your elbow to temporarily get it out of the way or look a bit more casual without making additional folds. [7] X Research source
If you’re wearing a tie, keep it on and fastened with this sleeve roll.
If you have thinner arms, consider keeping at least one gauntlet button done so the cuff hugs your arm a bit more closely.
Run a finger through the fold so that the inside-out cuff lays as flat as possible. Even though softer and less formal shirt cuffs can be folded outside the seam, it will look bulkier in the long run as you add more rolls.
If you’re in a formal setting, consider stopping here (the classic roll). Continue rolling if you’re transitioning to a casual environment or need to keep your sleeves clean.
Stop here if you don’t plan on doing any heavy physical activity. Make sure both rolls are equally tidy and the same length. [14] X Research source If you’re wearing a tie, keep it on to maintain a professional look. If you’re at a function like a happy hour, consider loosening it slightly. Keep your cuff below the elbow to stay on the more formal side of things. As a general rule, the more arm you show, the more casual the look.
This look is best if you have to use your arms for intense physical activity and don’t want to stretch or wear out the elbows of your sleeves. The “High Roller” is more casual than either a basic below-the-elbow roll or the classic roll. If you have a tie on, consider loosening or even taking it off.
Gauntlet buttons are the smaller buttons along the split in your sleeve above the cuff. Most button-downs and dress shirts have at least one per sleeve.
You should still have the upper part of your forearm covered by the inside-out shirt sleeve. Depending on your preference, adjust the height of the cuff to sit just above or just below the elbow. Remember, a high roll is typically seen as more casual. This roll is very versatile since you can adjust the height to be whatever you like.
If the inside of your cuff contrasts with the print or color of your shirt, let a full third of it show. It’s a very striking, stylish, attention-grabbing look. [21] X Research source
Make sure the same amount of cuff is exposed on both sleeves, too. Use this roll as a classy alternative to a classic or basic roll. It looks stylish and intentional in comparison, especially if the inside of the cuff has an interesting color or pattern. [23] X Research source If you’re wearing a tie, keep it fastened if your roll is lower and more formal. Loosen it if the roll is higher and you’re in a more casual setting.
If you don’t have a garter, use a rubber band or hair tie in its place. Just make sure it’s not too tight and won’t cut off your circulation. Use garters with dress shirts, button-downs, or any shirt where you don’t want to stretch out or stress the cuffs.
Garters hold your rolls securely in place and won’t slide down or move around like a classic or basic roll might.
If you like the idea of a garter but don’t want it to show, try using it inside a classic, basic, or master roll to hold it in place.
The best accessory to pair with sleeve garters is confidence—they’ll definitely set you and your outfit apart from the crowd, so own it! Garters were popular in the early 20th century when dress shirts often didn’t have buttons on the cuffs and it was harder to find sleeves in various lengths.
Elastic is a great way to hold saggy sweater sleeves in place. Since the fabric is looser than dress shirts, they’re likely to slip no matter how tight you roll them.
The band will keep the sleeve in place all day long. No more worrying about baggy sleeves getting in the way! Rolled sweater sleeves usually look better and more casual when they’re below the elbow. Otherwise, your upper arm will look super bulky. Remember, rolled sweater sleeves will always be a casual look. Do this when you need to get your sleeves out of the way or to cool down.
Do this with oversized coats, sweaters, or even blazers. It’s a quick trick that gives you an effortless, cool look.
If you’re having trouble folding the underarm portion while your shirt is on, try folding it while you’re getting dressed before putting it on.
Sleeves that are rolled up close to the shoulder tend to look more like a statement rather than a casual roll.
Pin near the underarm of the sleeve. It won’t be visible if the sleeve somehow comes unrolled (plus the underarm is the hardest area to keep flat). [37] X Research source The safety pin helps keep a crisp, clean fold.
Use a large rubber band or other elastic band that won’t cut off your circulation. Elastic bands last a long time and won’t slide up or down your arm.
