Standing tall and looking stylish doesn’t have to be a challenge. Finding fashion that fits and flatters can be challenging for tall men. But it doesn’t have to be. To help you dress confidently and look your best, this blog post will provide a comprehensive guide to the do’s and don’ts of fashion for tall men.
Learn how to dress for your body shape, which colors look best, and how to shop for clothes that fit. The fashion tips here will help you create a timeless wardrobe that will turn heads. So, let’s get started and reveal the secrets behind tall and stylish fashion!
1. DO use layers to add depth and dimension
When it comes to layering for tall men, there are a few key tips to keep in mind. Firstly, you want to avoid emphasizing your height too much. Opt for odd vests and sweaters under jackets, and with suits, add a matching waistcoat or choose a double-breasted jacket instead. These style choices help to break up the outfit and add points of interest that do not emphasize height.
Varying textures is another important aspect of layering. By using different materials such as wool, cotton, and denim, you can add depth and interest to your outfit. For example, a denim jacket paired with a wool sweater creates a stylish and practical contrast.
Another way to add depth to your outfit is by using accessories. A scarf, hat, or pocket square can add color and texture to your outfit. Just be sure to keep the proportions in mind – you don’t want your accessories to be manageable for your outfit.
2. DO embrace the odd combination
Finding clothing that fits well can be a struggle, and finding pieces that flatter your physique can be difficult. However, there is one style tip that tall men can embrace to elevate their fashion game: the odd combination.
Simply put, the odd combination is a jacket and pants made of different material. This can include a blazer paired with chinos, or a suit jacket paired with jeans. While this style may seem unconventional, it can be useful for tall men.
One of the greatest benefits of the odd combination is that it allows you to shop for separate pieces and get more wear from the suits you already have. Now your gray and navy suits have become four outfits instead of just two. This can save you money in the long run, as you won’t need to purchase as many complete suits.
In addition to being practical, the odd combination can also be a great way to break up your silhouette. Like a belt, wearing different colors and textures on the upper and lower body will break the body in half, which makes you look less imposing by creating distinct lines. This can be particularly flattering for tall men, who may feel their height is overwhelming in certain situations.
3. DO choose belts over braces
While suspenders, or braces, may be popular with heavier set men, belts are the way to go for those with a leaner build. Belts help to create a clean line across the body, breaking up the appearance and adding balance to your overall look. This is especially important for taller men, as it can help to avoid the impression of being too lanky or unbalanced.
In addition to providing balance, belts can also help to add bulk to your build, drawing attention to your midsection. This is particularly useful for creating a more muscular or athletic appearance. Consider adding a contrasting or bright colored belt, depending on the setting, to make your outfit pop.
When it comes to style, there are endless options for belts. Whether you prefer a classic leather belt, a trendy woven belt, or something in between, there is a belt that perfectly complements your style. And for those looking to add a bit of edge to their outfit, even studded or embellished belts are available.
4. DO get everything altered
Alterations may seem like an added expense, but trust us when we say they are worth every penny. Buying clothes off the rack can be a hit or miss, especially for tall men. The sleeves may be too short, the pants may be too long, or the jacket may billow. This is where alterations come in.
First things first, always allot a budget for alterations. When you’re purchasing clothes, factor in the cost of alterations. This way, you won’t be caught off guard when you have to pay for them later. Plus, the cost of alterations is much cheaper than having to buy a whole new outfit.
Now, let’s talk about the types of alterations you can get. The simplest alteration is a hem or cuff. If your pants are too long, a tailor can easily hem them to the right length. Similarly, a tailor can cuff your sleeves for a perfect fit if your sleeves are too long. Buy the best trousers for tall men (bukser for høye menn in Norway).
If you’re looking for something more involved, a tailor can bring a jacket so it doesn’t billow. This is especially important for tall men who often struggle with finding jackets that fit their frame. A tailored jacket will not only look better but also feel more comfortable.
5. DON’T wear bold, vertical stripes
Stripes are one of those patterns that can add a touch of sophistication and style to any outfit. However, not all stripes are created equal. In fact, tall men should avoid one type of stripe at all costs: bold, vertical stripes. Yes, you read that right. As a tall man, vertical stripes would be a great way to elongate your frame. After all, isn’t that what we’ve always been told? Unfortunately, this is a common misconception that can work against you.
Bold, vertical stripes make you look taller and thinner than you already are. They draw the eye up and down, rather than across. This creates a long, lean line that can be unflattering on tall men, especially if you’re already slim.
6. DON’T wear shorts and short-sleeved shirts together
One common mistake tall men make is wearing shorts and short-sleeved shirts together. It may be tempting to show off those long legs and toned arms, but this combination can actually make you look even lankier. The key to looking stylish and put-together is balance, and wearing both shorts and short-sleeved shirts together throws that balance off.
So, what should you do instead? Simple: show one or the other. This means pairing a short-sleeved shirt with pants or a long-sleeved shirt with shorts. Doing so creates a more balanced look that highlights your best features without making you look disproportionate.
If you choose to wear a long-sleeved shirt with shorts, you can keep things casual and comfortable by rolling up your sleeves a few steps. This not only adds a touch of style to your outfit, but it also helps to balance out the exposed skin on your legs.
In addition to avoiding the shorts-and-short-sleeved-shirt combo, tall men should keep a few other style tips in mind. For example, avoid wearing too baggy or loose-fitting clothes, as they can make you look even taller and skinnier. Instead, choose clothes that fit well and highlight your frame without being too tight or restrictive.
7. DON’T wear low-rise pants
Low-rise pants can elongate the torso, making you look even taller than you already are. This can throw off your overall proportions and make your outfit look unbalanced. Instead, opt for mid- to high-rise cuts that hit at the natural waist or just below.
Not only will this help balance out your silhouette, but it will also provide a more comfortable fit. Low-rise pants often sit below the hips, which can cause them to slide down or shift around throughout the day. This can be especially frustrating for tall men, who may already need help finding pants that are long enough.
Another downside to low-rise pants is that they can limit your styling options. They tend to look best with shorter, more fitted tops, which can be challenging if you prefer a looser, more relaxed style. Mid- to high-rise pants, on the other hand, can be paired with a wide range of tops, from tucked-in dress shirts to oversized sweaters.
Wrapping up
Being tall and stylish is easy as long as you know the do’s and don’ts of fashion for tall men. Following the tips and techniques mentioned in this blog post, you can confidently dress for your body shape, choose the right colors, and shop for fit clothes. With a little effort and attention to detail, you can create a timeless wardrobe that accentuates your height and style. So, go ahead and embrace your height with confidence, and let your fashion sense speak for itself.