Cap sleeve

The cap sleeve is a very short sleeve that covers the shoulder like a small cap but does not reach the upper arm. Length is usually only 4 to 8 cm from the shoulder seam. Characteristic is the rounded, downward-curved shape that elegantly marks the transition from shoulder to arm.

Structurally the cap sleeve is usually a set-in sleeve: it has its own armhole and is attached via a curved seam. Some variants are cut on, with front and back pieces flowing directly into a short shoulder extension.

Cap sleeves are especially popular in women's fashion because they visually lengthen the upper arm and subtly emphasise the shoulder without covering the whole arm. They appear on blouses, dresses, T-shirts and cocktail dresses. In sportswear they are used on jerseys where freedom of movement and ventilation are wanted.

Compared to a classic short sleeve the cap sleeve extends much less far. It appears more feminine and lighter. Not to be confused with flutter sleeves or standard T-shirt sleeves that reach the mid-upper arm.