Whatever shape you are in, you can make a huge difference to how good you look by choosing clothes that work with your body type, rather than highlighting or exaggerating things you are not so happy with. For 'large' men, dressing well can mean the difference between looking strong and authoritative, and looking bulky or fat. Of course, 'large' in itself isn't a body type, encompassing everyone from overweight guys through to bodybuilders, but the type of clothes that tend to work best on a large frame tend to be the same whether you are big because you are in or out of shape!
Pants and Jeans
Finding a good cut of pants and jeans will allow you to look good whether you are dressed up or dressed down, and now that more retailers and online shops carry fashionable styles in sizes for larger men, you can find styles in big and tall jeans and pants that are in line with the latest fashions. However, some fashion styles don't suit larger men, and so just because you can get them in your size, doesn't mean they are going to look good! Avoid skinny jeans at all costs, even if you are very fit, as this cut is not designed to be wrapped around big muscular quads. If you are overweight, the tight style will only serve to emphasize it. A more relaxed, classic style works much better, or consider a slight flare to balance out big thighs. For pants, it can be good to wear them just slightly longer than smaller men do, as lengthening the leg makes you appear more streamlined, and if you are also tall, you are going to avoid flashing too much sock when you sit down!
Shirts and T-Shirts
While it should be obvious that larger men should avoid very tight shirts unless they are very buff and want to show their muscles, what many men don't realize is that overly baggy t-shirts or loose button down shirts look just as bad. A big, tent like t-shirt makes you look bigger and also more shapeless, and also gives a kind of slobby look. Shirts that are too loose also make the body look bigger rather than hiding a belly or other flabby bits. Choose t-shirts and polo shirts that skim the body to avoid looking bigger than you are, and well fitting shirts that look classy and tailored.
Jackets and Blazers
Like shirts, jackets should be fitted so that they skim the body rather than oversized. Wear slightly longer blazers if you want to hide your rear. Choose jackets with very structured shoulders, as this will highlight the positive side of being a big man and give you a strong, powerful look – particularly nice when worn as a suit, or on a leather jacket or coat.
With the right clothes, you can look stylish, fashionable and attractive no matter what your body type, so remember these tips next time you shop!
Thank you for using the Fashion Industry Network. Have you helped another member today? Answer questions in the forum. It brings good luck.