It seems simple, rolling your sleeves. But trust us, a sloppily-folded cuff can ruin even the most well-curated look. On the flip-side, a precision-perfect roll can make it. Whether it’s just sunny or you’re getting hot under the collar at work, being in the know with what technique works best for the shirt you’re wearing is more important than ever.

For example, lighter fabrics like linen crinkle easily and that’s hard to avoid, so embrace it, but ensuring your folded sleeves are neat and trim will avoid the look leaning into scruffiness. For smart dressers who worry a roll will take their look into overly casual territory, there’s options that show your roll is purposeful while also nailing practicality.

Context is also key – the roll you choose for an Oxford shirt that’s worn at the park may differ to one worn while attending an interview, for instance. These four rolls will allow you to dial the formality up or down while also allowing your arms to breathe in the warm weather.

Military Roll

Although it is seen as the classic, traditional way to roll up shirt sleeves, the military roll is often overlooked for a quick-fix. But this technique is simpler than you think and when executed correctly with military precision, will only aid the neatness of your look. If your cuffs have a patterned interior, this is a nice way of showing that off, too.

Steps

• Unbutton your cuffs and smooth out any creases in your sleeve
• Fold the sleeve so that the cuff reaches the inside of your elbow. This should be about two widths of the cuff
• Then, fold from the bottom of the sleeve to cover the cuff, leaving a glimpse of the cuff end poking out
• To undo, hold the top edge of cuff and pull down

Forearm Roll

The most casual of rolls, the forearm roll is perfect for when you’re on-the-go as it can be achieved in seconds. This technique, which only reveals a third of your arm, gives your more-structured shirts a relaxed, off-duty feel and is subtle enough that it won’t hinder any intended smartness.