Fact-checked by Grok 2 weeks ago

Raglan sleeve

A raglan sleeve is a type of sleeve in garment construction where the sleeve extends in one continuous piece from the to the underarm, featuring a distinctive diagonal seam that runs from the edge to the armpit, eliminating the traditional set-in seam. This provides greater across the and is commonly used in casual tops, , and outerwear for its comfort and streamlined appearance. The raglan sleeve originated in the early 19th century, named after FitzRoy James Henry Somerset, 1st Baron Raglan, a British who lost his right arm during the in 1815. His tailor modified his military uniform with this sleeve style to facilitate easier dressing and improved arm mobility, particularly for wielding a sword despite the injury. The design gained prominence during the (1853–1856), when Lord Raglan commanded British forces, and it was adapted for soldiers' raincoats to allow layering over bulky clothing while maintaining ease of motion. In modern fashion, raglan sleeves are versatile and appear in various lengths and fabrics, from short-sleeved tees—popularized in American sportswear since the early —to full-length versions in trench coats and knitwear. Their reduces bulk at the , making them ideal for activewear and inclusive sizing, and they continue to influence contemporary designs in and casual apparel for their ergonomic benefits.

Definition and Characteristics

Definition

A raglan sleeve is a type of in garments that extends in one continuous piece of fabric from the cuff to the , eliminating the traditional seam. This design creates a seamless flow from the body to the arm, providing a distinctive often seen in casual and athletic wear. The sleeve attaches to the garment body via a diagonal seam that runs from the underarm to the collarbone or on both the front and back pieces. This slanted seam line serves as the hallmark feature, allowing for greater arm mobility compared to conventional sleeve attachments. In contrast to set-in sleeves, which are sewn into a defined armhole at the , the raglan sleeve integrates directly with the without a horizontal shoulder seam.

Distinctive Features

The raglan sleeve eliminates the conventional horizontal shoulder seam found in set-in sleeves, creating a seamless transition from the garment's body to the arm that minimizes bulk and enhances overall smoothness at the area. This structural choice allows the fabric to flow continuously from the up to the , forming a unified piece that integrates the directly with the . Central to its design are the distinctive diagonal seams, which extend from the underarm (armpit) to the , typically involving four such seams in a full raglan configuration—two on the front (one for each sleeve) and two on the back. These seams, often precisely shaped for attachment, replace the encircling armhole seam of traditional sleeves, providing a clear visual and structural marker of the raglan style. Visually, the raglan sleeve produces a sloped, continuous line that gives the appearance of extended arm length while emphasizing fluidity and grace in movement. In terms of fit, it features a looser, more rounded armhole that accommodates a broader compared to fitted set-in designs, contributing to its popularity in active and casual garments. This rounded armhole depth aligns with the natural curve, promoting comfort without protrusion.

History

Origins in Military Attire

The raglan sleeve emerged in the mid-19th century as a practical innovation in uniforms, primarily to enhance arm for soldiers facing the limitations of traditional set-in sleeves. Developed to address restrictive designs that hindered during and daily duties, it represented a shift toward functionality in wartime apparel. Central to its invention was FitzRoy James Henry Somerset, 1st Baron Raglan, a prominent British who sustained a severe injury at the in 1815, resulting in the of his right arm. Somerset's disability underscored the need for clothing that facilitated easier arm extension and reduced the encumbrance of conventional sleeves, inspiring a tailored solution that allowed greater freedom of motion while concealing the injury. In 1851, tailor John Emary, founder of the outfitter , crafted this sleeve style specifically for Somerset, using a continuous fabric piece extending from the collar to the underarm via a diagonal seam. The sleeve saw its initial widespread application in military overcoats and capes during the (1853–1856), where served as commander of British forces. These garments provided essential mobility for officers and troops enduring harsh conditions, such as the Siege of Sevastopol, enabling better handling of weapons and equipment despite injuries or the bulk of layered uniforms. Aquascutum's waterproofed fabric, patented by Emary in 1853, further integrated the sleeve into these practical designs, prioritizing protection against rain and mud. Early adaptations of the raglan sleeve evolved directly from these utilitarian wartime imperatives, focusing on durability and ease of wear rather than ornamental appeal. British tailors refined the construction for in uniform factories, ensuring it withstood rigorous field use while accommodating a range of body types and potential wounds, thus establishing it as a staple in 19th-century attire.

Naming and Popularization

The raglan sleeve derives its name from , a prominent British military commander who sustained a severe injury at the in 1815, resulting in the amputation of his right arm. To facilitate easier dressing and arm mobility despite his disability, a specialized was designed for him in the early 1850s by John Emary, the founder of the British outerwear firm , featuring a sleeve that extended seamlessly from the collar to the underarm in a single piece. This innovation, initially a practical military adaptation during Lord Raglan's tenure as commander in the (1853–1856), quickly became associated with his title, earning the eponymous designation. After the , the raglan sleeve transitioned from military use to civilian tailoring, gaining widespread adoption in and the by the late as a favored feature in outerwear patterns for its comfort and ease of wear in rainy or active conditions. Tailors appreciated its construction, which reduced seams and improved fit, leading to its inclusion in everyday coats and jackets. Key milestones marked its growing popularity: by the 1860s, fashion plates in publications like Godey's Lady's Book showcased garments with raglan sleeves, reflecting their appeal in American and European womenswear and menswear. Early 20th-century sewing manuals routinely detailed raglan construction techniques, standardizing it for home sewers and professionals alike. In the United States, the design saw significant uptake in baseball uniforms during the 1910s, where the sleeve's diagonal seam enabled greater range of motion for batters and fielders, cementing its association with sport. This evolution represented a broader cultural shift, transforming the raglan sleeve from a niche accommodation for physical limitation into a versatile staple for active lifestyles, influencing menswear and outer garments by prioritizing functionality alongside aesthetic simplicity.

Design and Construction

Pattern and Cutting

The raglan sleeve pattern is drafted as a single continuous piece that seamlessly integrates sections of the front and back bodice, extending from the neckline to the cuff while adjusting the armhole curve to create a diagonal seam line for attachment to the body. This design eliminates the traditional shoulder seam by incorporating the sleeve head directly into the upper bodice portions, requiring careful alignment of the curve to match the body's diagonal join from neck to underarm. Drafting begins with a basic and set-in sloper, where the line is slashed and spread to form the raglan shape, and the is modified by connecting the tip to a point below the with a smoothed curve. Key measurements include the precise neck-to-underarm length, typically derived from the block, and the armscye depth, which is deepened by about 1 inch to accommodate the drop . Standard ease allowances of 1-2 inches are incorporated at the armhole and upper to ensure , achieved by spreading the tissue horizontally during . Tools essential for this process include rulers for straight lines, curves or flexible rulers for shaping the diagonal seams, pencils for marking, and paper for tracing adjustments. Once drafted, the cutting process involves laying out the fabric to produce one large piece that spans the full length from to hem, while the front and back body panels are cut as smaller, separate units omitting the integrated sleeve areas. Notches are marked along the diagonal seam lines on both the sleeve and body pieces to facilitate precise , with seam allowances of 5/8 inch added at all edges, including the curved joins, to allow for finishing. This ensures the fabric is used efficiently, with the sleeve piece often cut on the fold for in non-asymmetrical designs.

Sewing Methods

The construction of a raglan sleeve typically begins with preparing the front and back pieces and the components, often cut as a single piece extending from the . To assemble, place the right side down onto the front piece right side up, aligning the diagonal seam edges and matching notches; pin and with a 5/8-inch , starting from the edge. Repeat for the second on the front, ensuring even distribution to prevent twisting. Then, align the back piece right side down with the remaining diagonal edges of both sleeves, pin, and sew the seams, forming the continuous shoulder-to-underarm line characteristic of the raglan design. Finally, fold the garment right sides together, pin the side seams from sleeve hem to body hem, and , pivoting at any underarm curves if needed. Stay-ing along the curve before attachment helps stabilize the fabric and prevents stretching during . Seam finishing is crucial for durability and a clean appearance, particularly along the diagonal raglan seams and underarms, which bear movement stress. For woven fabrics, French seams are commonly used: first stitch wrong sides together with a scant 1/4-inch allowance, trim the edges, press, then fold right sides together and stitch with a 3/8-inch allowance to enclose raw edges completely. In knit fabrics, overlocking or serging the seams flat provides a flexible, professional finish, followed by pressing toward the sleeve. Underarm seams often receive reinforcement through double-stitching or taping to enhance longevity, especially in activewear. Zigzag stitching or pinking shears can substitute for serging on unfinished edges in home sewing setups. Aligning the diagonal seams presents challenges, as mismatches can cause puckering or uneven draping, particularly on bias-cut or stretchy fabrics; careful pinning at intervals and using a walking foot on the machine mitigates this by evenly feeding layers. For knits, incorporate less ease during pinning to maintain stretch, while wovens benefit from slight clipping at curves for smoother turns without adding bulk. Test-sewing a prototype allows adjustment for fit issues like excessive fullness at the underarm. Techniques vary by production context and fabric: hand-sewing with a is preferred in high-end tailoring for precise control over diagonal seams, allowing invisible finishing on delicate wovens, whereas machine with industrial overlockers suits of knits for speed and consistency. Facings or bindings at the , attached after sleeve insertion, further secure the assembly, often using the same seam method as the raglan joins for uniformity. In or seamless construction, alternative flat-knitting methods join pieces post-shaping, but traditional follows the flat assembly outlined above.

Advantages and Disadvantages

Benefits

The raglan sleeve enhances mobility through its distinctive construction, which features a diagonal seam extending from the neckline to the underarm, eliminating the restrictive shoulder seam found in set-in sleeves. This allows for a wider armhole and greater freedom of arm motion, making it ideal for dynamic activities and beneficial for individuals with limited shoulder or arm movement. In terms of comfort, the absence of a shoulder seam reduces bulk at the joint, minimizing chafing and irritation during wear, while evenly distributing stress across the upper body to prevent localized pressure points. This seamless integration promotes prolonged comfort, particularly in extended-use scenarios like wheelchair operation or active daily tasks. Aesthetically, the raglan sleeve creates a streamlined, diagonal line that softens shoulder definition, offering a flattering silhouette for diverse body types, such as those with broader shoulders or inverted triangle proportions, by visually balancing the upper body without emphasizing seams. The design's fewer seams contribute to durability by reducing potential wear points and allowing even stress distribution, which extends garment lifespan and facilitates easy layering under outerwear without added bulk.

Limitations

While raglan sleeves offer mobility, they present fit challenges, particularly on slim or narrow-shouldered builds, where the absence of a traditional shoulder seam can create a baggy or unstructured appearance, resulting in a less tailored silhouette compared to set-in sleeves. This design also tends to produce excess fabric under the arm when arms are at rest, potentially leading to bulkiness, or conversely, tightness in close-fitting garments due to insufficient allowance for shoulder curvature. The overall fit is highly influenced by individual body shape, especially shoulder slope, often requiring specific adjustments like short-row shaping or darts to avoid binding. Sizing raglan sleeves poses difficulties in achieving precise arm and shoulder proportions without custom modifications, as the continuous seam from neckline to underarm complicates standard grading across sizes and may necessitate additional easing or wedge insertions for balanced proportions. This can make the style less adaptable for varied body types, such as bustier figures, where the slanted seams may accentuate rather than accommodate curves. Aesthetically, the prominent diagonal seams of raglan sleeves can distort printed fabrics or patterned designs by interrupting vertical lines or colorwork, limiting their use in garments with intricate motifs. Additionally, the unstructured line contributes to a casual, less formal , rendering raglan sleeves unsuitable for dressier or professional attire. In terms of construction, aligning the curved diagonal seams demands precise skills to prevent puckering or misalignment, which can increase production time and complexity, particularly for novice sewers; improper stitching may also create weak points along the seam.

Applications

In Sportswear

The raglan sleeve gained prominence in early 20th-century jerseys, where its seamless allowed for unrestricted arm movement during swinging and fielding, making it a preferred choice for players seeking enhanced performance. It is commonly used in undershirts and practice jerseys, including those worn under protective gear to maintain mobility without binding. Today, it remains popular in professional and amateur apparel for these functional advantages. In contemporary , raglan sleeves appear in hoodies, running shirts, and gear, where they integrate with moisture-wicking and stretch fabrics to support active pursuits. For instance, running shirts often employ one-piece raglan construction in synthetic blends that facilitate sweat evaporation and reduce chafing during long-distance efforts. jerseys with raglan sleeves prioritize stretchy, breathable materials for off-road or aggressive riding, offering superior arm extension without shoulder restriction. Athletic hoodies, such as those from brands, commonly use this sleeve style in performance knits that provide lightweight coverage for training sessions. Performance adaptations frequently pair raglan sleeves with integrated hoods in , enhancing overall versatility for activities requiring overhead reaches or quick transitions. These combinations shine in synthetic fabrics like , which amplify through panels and promote to regulate body temperature during intense workouts. Such features underscore the sleeve's role in boosting , as detailed in broader design benefits. Notable examples include MLB undershirts and practice jerseys, where raglan styles provide on-field agility, and training apparel, such as UNIQLO's athlete collections featuring raglan sleeves for optimal mobility in competitive preparation. Brands like Peter Millar incorporate them in UPF-protected shirts for endurance sports, emphasizing stretch and wicking properties.

In Fashion and Casual Wear

The raglan sleeve has become a staple in , particularly in t-shirts, sweaters, and , valued for its relaxed fit that enhances comfort and ease of movement. This design's simplicity makes it ideal for baby clothes, where the continuous line from neck to underarm facilitates infants without shoulder strain. Iconic in tees, the raglan evokes a sporty yet laid-back aesthetic, with contrasting sleeve colors typically in white or gray against a , solidifying its role as a casual classic. In modern fashion, raglan sleeves blend athletic influences with for versatile everyday styling. Brands like incorporated raglan sleeves into their collections, such as the Fall/Winter 2024 Stripe Raglan Long-Sleeve Top, which features knit stripes and printed graphics for an urban edge. Similarly, has utilized raglan construction in casual outerwear, like the Better Sweater 1/4-Zip Fleece Pullover, emphasizing mobility and packability in for transitional layering. This positions the raglan as a bridge between high-fashion and functional casual pieces, appealing to consumers seeking effortless versatility. Stylistic variations of the raglan sleeve further enhance its adaptability in fashion. Short-sleeve versions suit summer wardrobes, providing a breezy alternative to standard tees while maintaining the sleeve's diagonal seam for visual flow. Long-sleeve iterations in knit fabrics, such as sweaters, excel for layering in cooler weather, offering a cozy, unstructured silhouette. Color-blocking along the seams adds contemporary flair, with contrasting hues on the sleeves and body creating dynamic patterns that highlight the design's geometry, as seen in various ready-to-wear tops. Culturally, the raglan sleeve symbolizes casual Americana, rooted in its association with tees that represent and team spirit. Its seamless structure offers a forgiving fit that minimizes shoulder restrictions, making it suitable for diverse body shapes.

References

  1. [1]
    How to sew a raglan sleeve - Gathered
    Feb 11, 2022 · 1. What is a raglan sleeve? ... 'Raglan' is the name given to the style of sleeve that reaches all the way up to the neckline of the garment, ...Missing: definition | Show results with:definition
  2. [2]
  3. [3]
    Pills of Heritage: The Raglan Sleeve - Aquascutum Active
    Sep 12, 2025 · The origins of the raglan sleeve lie in history and necessity. Lord FitzRoy James Henry Somerset, better known as Lord Raglan, ...
  4. [4]
    What Is a Raglan T-Shirt? | ShirtSpace
    Aug 23, 2019 · Raglan t-shirts were once "baseball" t-shirts that have evolved into a trendy tee. Raglan sleeves extend up to the collar instead of ending ...Missing: credible | Show results with:credible
  5. [5]
    The History of the Raglan Sleeve Coat - Robb Report
    Feb 19, 2020 · The newly trendy raglan sleeve coat was made for a survivor of the Battle of Waterloo in the 1850s. Here's why menswear guys love it today.
  6. [6]
    Raglan Sleeve: 4 Characteristics of Raglan Shirts - MasterClass
    Mar 2, 2022 · Raglan sleeves are shirt sleeves with diagonal seams from the neckline to the underarm area, creating a long, continuous sleeve from the ...
  7. [7]
    Difference Between Set-In & Raglan Sleeves - OLIK Sport
    Rating 4.9 (81) Oct 8, 2024 · Raglan sleeves, on the other hand, are characterised by a diagonal seam that runs from the underarm to the neckline. They are typically ...<|control11|><|separator|>
  8. [8]
  9. [9]
    [PDF] Sleeve Savvy - Extension Publications
    A raglan sleeve (Figure 2) is a sepa- rate, precisely shaped piece of fabric which joins the bodice in a diagonal seam ex- tending to the neck- line area. A ...
  10. [10]
    Collection: Robert Ross papers | George Washington University
    Somerset went on to fight heroically at Waterloo (where he lost an arm) and much later to gain notoriety as the unfortunate Raglan whose ambiguous orders ...
  11. [11]
    The Classy Rise of the Trench Coat
    May 27, 2015 · In 1853, Mayfair gentlemen's clothier John Emary developed and ... Crimean War in 1853. Burberry and Aquascutum both created designs ...
  12. [12]
    The trench: A coat for all seasons - BBC
    Oct 24, 2013 · ... Aquascutum coat worn by Lt Gen Gerald Goodlake during the Crimean war. The garment is said to be preserved at Newstead Abbey in England ...
  13. [13]
    Up in Arms: The Raglan Sleeve, by Eric Twardzik
    ### Summary of Raglan Sleeve Information
  14. [14]
    Raglan sleeves: history & benefits of iconic design - The New Old Club
    The raglan sleeve was originally developed to offer its wearer independence and therefore freedom despite a physical disability. British Field Marshal Lord ...
  15. [15]
    The Surprising History of the Raglan Sleeve - Canoe Club
    This allowed for greater movement, making it easier for Lord Raglan to dress and to swing a sword. And that is how the Raglan Sleeve was invented. Decades ...Missing: fashion - - - | Show results with:fashion - - -
  16. [16]
    The Raglan Sleeve Draft - Sempstress
    Apr 5, 2014 · Connect the tip of the shoulder to a point about 1″ below the adjusted armscye with a smooth curve on both halves of the sleeve. Cut along this ...
  17. [17]
    A Complete Course in Dressmaking/Lesson 4/Pattern making
    Jan 6, 2023 · In cutting out the sleeve pattern, allow seams at all points. ... Making a Pattern for a Blouse with a Raglan Sleeve: Use the front ...Missing: drafting instructions<|control11|><|separator|>
  18. [18]
    [PDF] Pattern making by Aldana Persia for Fabtextiles
    Raglan Sleeve Pattern. Pattern making I Aldana Persia I Fab Textiles. Raglan Sleeve 1: Divide neckline into thirds in both patterns the front and the back.Missing: drafting instructions
  19. [19]
    RAGLAN SLEEVES FOR SUMMER – Palmer Pletsch Sewing Blog
    May 3, 2017 · Tissue fit raglan sleeves, check for square or sloping shoulders, and adjust width in the overarm seam. Add 1-2" for ease, and adjust for full ...<|control11|><|separator|>
  20. [20]
    None
    Nothing is retrieved...<|control11|><|separator|>
  21. [21]
    The Remy Raglan Tutorial - Version #2 - Sew House Seven
    Jun 11, 2021 · French seams - With wrong sides together, attach the sleeve (piece 4 or 5) to the front using a scant 1/4”/6mm seam allowance. Trim any fraying ...<|control11|><|separator|>
  22. [22]
    How To Sew Raglan Sleeves - Peek-a-Boo Pattern Shop
    In this blog post, we'll take you through the step-by-step process of sewing raglan sleeves, from pattern cutting to finishing touches.
  23. [23]
  24. [24]
    [PDF] Children's Clothing - Open Research Oklahoma
    Raglan sleeves permit long high reaches and are easier to i-ron and to make than a puffed sleeve. Cap sleeves are very comfortable and are easily imned and are.
  25. [25]
    Learn to sew - identifying your body type
    Raglan sleeves and halter styles visually minimize wide shoulders. Eliminate any details such as too-large ruffles and flounces, wide collars, yokes or ...Missing: "fashion
  26. [26]
    [PDF] Body Types - Sewing.org
    Tops with V-necks, raglan sleeves or diagonal designs pull the eye down. Wear dark colors on the upper body with lighter colors on the lower body. What not ...
  27. [27]
    A Comprehensive Guide to Raglan and Set-in Sleeves
    Jun 27, 2023 · With their distinctive diagonal seam, Raglan sleeves offer a sporty, relaxed look and are easier to sew without requiring precise fitting. This ...Missing: structure | Show results with:structure
  28. [28]
    What Is a Raglan Sleeve in Knitting? - The Spruce Crafts
    Oct 24, 2019 · You can end up with a lot of extra fabric under the arm. · They may feel too tight on a garment that's meant to be close-fitting. · The lines also ...<|control11|><|separator|>
  29. [29]
    WHICH TYPE OF SLEEVE IS RIGHT FOR YOUR WINTER ACTIVITY?
    ### Summary of Disadvantages, Limitations, or Drawbacks of Raglan Sleeves
  30. [30]
    Ravellings on the knitted sleeve -- Part I - knitty.com
    The sleeve tapers from the bicep line to the wrist. Above the bicep line, the sleeve cap gently slopes to the shoulder point. In knitting, the uppermost ...
  31. [31]
    Sew for Your Shape - Threads Magazine
    Oct 8, 2019 · • Avoid diagonal seamlines at the shoulder (raglan sleeves), which emphasize the slope. • Use short peplums or yokes to add volume higher on ...
  32. [32]
    3 Little-Known Facts About the Raglan Shirt
    ### Summary of Raglan Sleeve in Baseball and Sportswear History
  33. [33]
    Why Are Baseball Tees Called Raglan Tees? - Sugar Stitch Wholesale
    Jun 6, 2023 · The famous raglan sleeve's design started appearing in sporting apparel, including baseball tees. It is an integral part of the raglan tee ...Missing: civilian | Show results with:civilian
  34. [34]
    Uni Watch: Spring training breakdown - ESPN Page 2
    Feb 25, 2009 · Raglan sleeves: A tailoring style in which a jersey's sleeves connect to the collar, creating a diagonal seam that extends from the collar ...<|separator|>
  35. [35]
    The Best Running Shirts for Men (Fall 2025): Field and Lab Tested
    Sep 25, 2025 · Additional touches, such as a split hem and one-piece raglan sleeves, enhance freedom of movement, while laser-cut sleeve hems and flat-locked ...
  36. [36]
  37. [37]
  38. [38]
    SPORT-TEK Unisex Hooded Raglan Jacket - Amazon.com
    STAY COOL: Crafted from a lightweight polyester shell and jersey lining with mesh insets at the gussets, this zip-up jacket offers everyday weather protection ...
  39. [39]
  40. [40]
    Peter Millar Perth Raglan Sleeve Shirt - UPF 50+, Zip Neck, Long ...
    7–8 day delivery 40-day returnsHit the green in comfort with this Peter Millar Perth raglan sleeve shirt, crafted from stretchy, moisture-wicking fabric and infused with UPF 50+ sun ...<|separator|>
  41. [41]
    Supreme Stripe Raglan L S Top (FW24) - $110
    Sep 19, 2024 · All cotton crewneck with knit stripe pattern. Printed logo and graphic on back. Athletic label at lower front. prices / retails. $ 110. £ 98.
  42. [42]
    Patagonia Men's Better Sweater® 1/4-Zip Fleece Pullover
    In stock Free deliveryRaglan Sleeve Construction. Raglan sleeves offer mobility and pack-wearing comfort. Zippered Left-Chest Pocket. Vertically zippered left-chest pocket holds ...
  43. [43]
    Men's Better Sweater® Fleece Jacket - Patagonia
    In stock Free deliveryRaglan Sleeve Construction. Raglan sleeves offer mobility and pack-wearing comfort. Pocket Details. Two zippered, welt handwarmer pockets, and one vertically ...Patagonia GR · £130 · Jackets · New Navy (NENA)
  44. [44]