Design & Style

Batwing Sleeve Guide: 6 Ways to Style a Batwing Sleeve

Written by MasterClass

Last updated: Jun 7, 2021 • 2 min read

Batwing sleeves can be comfortable, fashionable, and suitable for many outfits and occasions. A batwing sleeve can add a stylish flair to your knit sweater or long-sleeve top, and provide a little extra detail to make your outfit pop.

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What Is a Batwing Sleeve?

A batwing sleeve, also known as a dolman sleeve, is a long sleeve with a baggy, wing-like appearance. A batwing starts wide at the shoulders and has deep armholes, with the sleeves tapering toward the wrist. They are loose-fitting and comfy, and come in a variety of stylings. Long batwing sleeves often appear on garments such as cardigans, pullover sweaters, turtlenecks, and kimonos. Learn about different types of sweaters in our complete guide.

6 Ways to Style a Batwing Sleeve

A batwing sleeve makes a versatile addition to both casual and elegant styles. Some different ways to create a batwing sleeve ensemble include:

  1. 1. Cashmere hoodie and boots. This soft attire complements the cozy look of the batwing sleeve. Ramp up the chic look by pairing it with dark denim jeans and a pair of booties from your capsule wardrobe.
  2. 2. Cowl-neck top and leggings. Another comfortable batwing style is a slouchy, knit, cowl-neck top over stretchy leggings with flats. This look is both casual and cozy, and can work for a lunch out or hanging out at home.
  3. 3. Knit poncho with boyfriend jeans. Boyfriend jeans have a loose fit and a straight leg, which pairs well with an oversized, chunky, knitted poncho. You can wear this look with boots or platform sneakers. Learn more about different types of jeans.
  4. 4. Long-sleeve sweater and skinny jeans. Long-sleeve batwing sweaters come in a variety of necklines, making them a versatile choice for different body types. A v-neck, scoop neck, or boatneck batwing-sleeve sweater tucked into a pair of high-waisted jeans, and a pair of boots is an excellent choice for a day of running errands or dressed up with accessories for a nice dinner out.
  5. 5. Short-sleeve tunic top and shorts. Batwing sleeves also come in shorter versions and are sometimes seen on tunic tops. Wear this batwing-sleeve top over a pair of denim or fabric shorts, and pair with white sneakers or wedges.
  6. 6. T-shirt and slacks. Even T-shirts can have batwing sleeves, giving your top a looser fit. Pair a v-neck or round-neck batwing t-shirt with slacks, and accessorize with a chunky necklace for a stylish, professional look that works well with heels or flats.

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