When Jordy, our go-to stylist, and I first collaborated on a capsule wardrobe, a simple phrase quickly stuck: “Gotta Cuff.” Throughout the shoot she cuffed almost everything—jeans, t-shirts, sweaters, even leather jackets. I’d rolled up my jeans before, but seeing how much more polished and flattering each look became with a small cuff changed the way I dress.
Cuffing is an easy, effective styling trick that helps garments look more tailored and intentional. It can shorten hems, refine proportions, or tame oversized sleeves. For those of us with longer torsos or boxier silhouettes, a cuff instantly balances proportions and gives an outfit a finished feel. We took before-and-after photos to show how much difference a little roll makes.
If a shirt feels too long, try cuffing the hem and tucking the end into your waistband to hold it in place. This creates a casual, lived-in look while keeping proportions balanced.
Don’t limit cuffing to casual pieces—try it on unexpected items like leather jackets. A folded sleeve or slightly shortened cuff can make a structured piece feel more approachable and modern.
Below are the styling sources for the items pictured in the original capsule wardrobe post.
Do you cuff items in your own wardrobe? It’s a small, noncommittal adjustment, but it can dramatically improve how an outfit reads on you. Whether you’re aiming for a neater silhouette, shortening a hem, or simply adding a little personality, cuffing is a quick, reversible trick that elevates everyday dressing.
Try experimenting with different cuff sizes—tiny rolls for a subtle effect or larger folds for a more deliberate statement. Cuffing is versatile, low-effort, and endlessly adaptable to your personal style.