Top Fashion & Style Tips for Larger Men
The Best Choices and Options Available for Big Men
Mar 4, 2009
Finding clothing that is comfortable while retaining a sharp stylistic edge can be challenging for all men – though for more heavyset gentlemen it can be particularly frustrating. For those who find they have become exhausted with traditional avenues when it comes to men's clothing would do well to brush up on some knowledge that may benefit them in the long run, cultivating a well-regarded and sartorial edge.
Know Your Options and Your Body
The first step in improving one's personal image and wardrobe is to be absolutely honest with regards to your bodily measurements, complexion, and sense of style and personality. For men with stockier frames, a few items to note immediately spring to mind.
- Pleated pants are a classic style for men of all shapes and sizes, though aside from the stylistic byproduct of pleats they are also much more comfortable and flattering on men who have larger thighs and seats. The double-pleated front is ideal in many ways in that it allows for an extra inch or so around the midriff and abdomen as well as allowing a great deal more room in the upper thigh and crotch.
- Double-breasted suits with peak lapels are an increasingly popular choice both in general and for larger men. The benefit of a double breasted jacket is that they are typically much roomier across the shoulders and chest, as well as having a much more liberal closure – reducing button strain and pulling. Another avenue to consider would be a two-button, single-breasted suit jacket or blazer. The lower closure means a less constraining fit across the upper torso, also alleviating button strain and obvious pulling. Peak lapels help add to the visual length of your upper body, making your torso more elongated from an aesthetic point of view.
- Dress shirts can often be very problematic for larger men – particularly in that they do not come in appropriate sizing both with regards to the chest, sleeve, and neck. Asking an associate for a more relaxed fit may help, and for taller men it would be prudent to request a tall or even an extra tall fit to ensure that your shirt remains tucked well into your slacks and that your sleeves fall to at least the break of your wrist. Quality shirts, made-to-measure, are available widely and in affordable price ranges from several designers and online retailers.
- Quality footwear cannot be undervalued for all men, but particularly for those with greater frames. More weight being placed on your feet throughout the course of the day does mean that you should invest in quality, classic footwear. Consider Bostonian, Geox, Mephisto, Ferragamo, or Clark's – the latter brand having recently released an Unstructured line that features greater aeration and superb comfort and quality at an affordable price point.
Popular Big & Tall Stores, Alternative Options
Not only are larger men blessed by the advent of big and tall outlets such as those offered by Moore's as well as by Grafton-Fraser in the incarnation of George Richards – they are also catered to very well by an increasing commercial market in department stores as well. For casual wear or clothes that will be worn frequently, department stores may provide a generic fit – but for those wanting superior service and quality it is always recommended to deal with a trained and knowledgeable wardrobe consultant or fashion associates. Not only do such associates have experience in dealing with men who have larger and smaller builds – they are also trained to take accurate measurements and provide you with a stylish catalogue to incorporate into your wardrobe.
Finally, for those men who can afford it, bespoke tailoring and made-to-measure are both excellent options, and are provided by high-end retailers such as Harry Rosen, Dugger's, Stonehouse, and several other quality menswear merchants.
All men, regardless of shape, can look extremely sharp and well-dressed given that they take the time to invest in themselves and to be honest about their measurements and personal taste. Asking a well trained associate to help you build a stunning wardrobe is simply the first step to refining your image and projecting a professional, stylish presence.
Other Articles Pertaining to Men's Fashion & Lifestyle
- Fashion and Style Tips For Taller Men
- Fashion and Style Tips For Shorter Men
- How to Impress on Valentines Day
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