Three Ways to Roll Up Your Sleeves

Warm day? Hot office? Here’s one way to keep cool.

Published September 5, 2022

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Even with something as simple as rolling up your sleeves, it’s good to have a few extra options. Three rolls — the Casual, the Basic and the Italian — each present a distinct attitude when wearing a button-front shirt, and they are appropriate for everything from stuffy days in the office to sweltering August weddings. So, before the dog days have you sweating, or you need to tap in the A/C in the dead of winter, familiarize yourself with the options below.

The Casual Roll

This is the easiest roll to perform and has the most laid-back appearance. It keeps the shirt on your forearm and requires the least actual rolling. It has a looser look than other styles, and channels a cool nonchalance.

Step #1

Unbutton all buttons and flip the cuff inside out.

Step #2

Fold over once, concealing the cuff behind a layer of sleeve fabric.

The Basic Roll

This style takes the casual roll to its logical conclusion, resting above the elbow. Creating a clean fold, the Basic Roll is a staple practiced in casual and professional settings, from blue-collar workers to financial managers and presidents.

Step #1

Unbutton all buttons and flip the cuff inside out.

Step #2

Fold over once, concealing the cuff behind a layer of sleeve fabric.

Step #3

Fold the new cuff over, straightening out any wrinkles that may appear.

Step #4

Repeat as necessary until the cuff is above your elbow.

The Italian Roll

The Italian Roll presents a stylish take on the above-the-elbow roll. Slightly asymmetric and disheveled, it gives the right amount of casual flair when you want to let your forearms breathe.