Sleeve length measured on a flat laid top

Sep 20, 2026

Short answer: Measure from the shoulder seam to the sleeve hem with the sleeve laid out straight. On raglan sleeves you measure from the neck instead, since there is no shoulder seam to start from, so the figure is naturally longer.

The shoulder seam is the starting point

On a regular top the measurement starts where the sleeve is sewn to the body. Place the tape at the seam and run it along the top of the sleeve to the hem. This applies to bamboo underwear for women with sleeves and all other tops. Measure the same way each time.

Raglan is measured from the neck

Without a shoulder seam there is no fixed point at the shoulder, so you measure from the neckline. Raglan sleeves run up to the neck in an angled seam. The figure is longer than on a regular top, even if the sleeve ends at the same spot. Check which type the bamboo sweatshirt for women has.

The sleeve must lie straight

A bent or creased sleeve gives too short a figure. Straighten the sleeve so it lies naturally away from the body and smooth the fabric by hand. Do not pull it, let it lie flat. Do the same across all women's clothing, so your measurements are taken alike.

How to measure your own arm

Hold your arm slightly bent at your side. Measure from the outer point of the shoulder, over the elbow, to the wrist. A soft tape follows the arm best. Compare this figure with the sleeve length in a guide to see whether the sleeve reaches the wrist, stops short or falls over the hand.

Compare with a top you like

The easiest reference is a top whose sleeve already has the length you want. Measure it as described and use the figure when choosing a new item. Check that both tops have the same sleeve type, since raglan and regular sleeves are measured from different starting points.

The cuff counts

Many tops have a ribbed cuff at the wrist that draws in slightly. Measure right to the edge of the cuff, as it is part of the sleeve. A cuff can also be pushed up, so the sleeve feels shorter than measured. Useful to know if you like sleeves you can push up while busy.

Think about how you use the top

For relaxing at home many like a sleeve that reaches over the hand and feels warm. For work and active days, a sleeve that stops at the wrist is often more practical. Think about what you usually do in the top and choose the sleeve length to suit your day, not just the size.

Can a sleeve be shortened

Yes, a sleeve that is too long can be shortened, but the cuff must be sewn back on if there is one. That takes some sewing experience or help from a tailor. So it pays to measure once more before buying. It saves alterations and returns, and the top fits from day one.