When it comes to fashion, none know the struggle more than bigger guys and gals. It used to be that shopping as a plus-sized individual left one lacking in terms of trendy bits and baubles readily available. What you saw was what you got. Today, though, online shopping has opened up a whole new wardrobe world, and we’re here to help you navigate it to put your best dressed self forward every time you leave the house. As always, take style rules with a grain of salt – wear what makes YOU feel good and do so unapologetically – but if you’d like a few different options, then we’ve got you covered. Here are 5 style tips to help bigger guys get the most bang for their buck.
- Know your body type
People come in all shapes and sizes. Cliché sure, but true nonetheless. Avoid missteps in your fashion choices by knowing what shape you most closely resemble and how to accentuate it. We discuss the 3 most common body-types for men here, and there’s a good chance you fall into one of these categories, but if not, do some digging around online and see where you fit in.
- Layer when you can
Layering is a fantastic way to show off your shape without “over accentuating” it the way sizing up or relying on a tight fit will. Think thin. We’re not going for bulk here. Thin knits, over shirts, trench coats, bomber jackets, etc., are all great options. The goal is to highlight your frame and embrace your imposing size in a way that tapers for a balancing effect.
- Black isn’t everything
Some say that neutral colors – black, grey, white, beige, etc., – carry weight well. While that may be true it doesn’t mean that you should shy away from bright, vibrant, colors. Be proud of your body, dress it up in the most obnoxious pastels you can find if you want. The fashion world is your oyster. Feast. If you’re an all-black-everything kind of guy looking to experiment before going full rainbow bright, though, then a great way to do so is with accessories. Go top heavy, i.e., hats, bow ties, and scarves, to draw the eye upward. This color tactic works especially well with suits and pocket squares.
- To tuck or untuck?
Maybe you’re sensing a trend here, but the answer is – do you, boo. The general rule has been to go untucked when you can. The idea here is that untucking a dress shirt or polo allows the exposed hem (whether it be rounded or straight) to draw eyes away from your midsection while lengthening your torso. But tucking in looks sharp. So, do you. Fashion has become such a powerful way to show off one’s individuality over the last decade. Regardless of how you decide to wear your gear, as long as you do it with confidence, you’ll be met with an audience who enjoys your efforts. So, go ahead. Tuck your favorite old t-shirt (read: vintage) into faded jean shorts. But if you do, do so confidently.
At Original Stitch we offer a fully customizable collection of premium quality dress shirt, suit blazer, and pant fabrics. Use them to create a wardrobe that is completely unique to YOU. Our high-quality yarns are hand-selected from – and tailored in – Japan to be extra resistant to wear and tear while maintaining a softer feel than their off-the-rack counterparts.