Proper Sleeve Length
Hi there, I’ve been trying to do a wardrobe overhaul and getting things to fit properly as a result. I’m having an existential crisis about my sleeve length; 34/35’s feel too short, and 36/37’s feel too long. I asked a reputable tailor and he suggested the 36/37, and a few other folks on other forums and in person have suggested the 34/35.
I think the 34/35 looks right when my arms are at my side but when they’re raised — eating, typing, writing, etc. — it seems like it comes up too high, especially under my jackets.
On the other hand, the 36/37 seems to fit properly with a jacket even with lifted arms, but looks baggy without a jacket. First two pics are a 34/35, and with a jacket, and the then 36/37. Both shirts are on the longer side for their sizes. Would appreciate some advice and any ideas on why I’m hearing different things from everyone I ask — thank you!
I think the 34/35 looks right when my arms are at my side but when they’re raised — eating, typing, writing, etc. — it seems like it comes up too high, especially under my jackets.
On the other hand, the 36/37 seems to fit properly with a jacket even with lifted arms, but looks baggy without a jacket. First two pics are a 34/35, and with a jacket, and the then 36/37. Both shirts are on the longer side for their sizes. Would appreciate some advice and any ideas on why I’m hearing different things from everyone I ask — thank you!
7 Replies
The jacket pic they're not long enough. You should be able to show a little bit of shirt cuff. I think the longer ones are probably better but shirt sleeves are p flexible since you can move the button to get the cuff to sit at the exact right place
Do the longer ones not look baggy though? In the sleeve itself. When my arm is at my side the sleeve actually folds back under itself around my elbow lol
imo that's fine. Makes it easier to move around in rather than fighting the shirt all the time
I don't really notice that it's baggy in the pics
Fair enough, I think I’ve been so attentive to this over the last few days that now both look wrong lol
I read a great japanese meanswear article on this. The tldr is that it should reach where your thumb and index finger meet when sleeve is unbuttoned
Interesting! Seems like a good metric, I’ll have to try on a few shirts tomorrow. Thanks! Where would you say it should reach when it is buttoned?
I forgot that one. Some amount past the wrist. Such that if you wear a suit jacket, the right amount peaks out