You can either buy a patch specified for right arm wear or place the flag what you would call backward to ensure the star field is always facing forward. If you are placing the patch on the left sleeve, you want the star field in the upper left side whereas placing it on the right sleeve you want the stars in the same area. Much like how soldiers are instructed to wear their official flag patches on their uniform, a civilian should wear the flag patch so that the stars are in the forward position in the top corner as if it were flowing in the wind. The matter of how to place the flag on the sleeve is also important to note. While you can technically wear the flag patch in other areas, the sleeve is considered the proper placement by most. If you wear the flag patch anywhere else, it can be seen as a display of disrespect. As a civilian, you should still wear the flag patch on the arm of the shirt in the same manner as soldiers and other military personnel. The first thing to keep in mind about how to wear American flag patches on clothing is the placement. Let's take a look at how to wear American flag patches on clothing to avoid any disrespect or faux pas. When it comes to wearing American flag patches on clothing, you might have a few concerns. As a patriotic American, you like showing off your love for all things red, white, and blue.