Photo Credit (Greety Images)

Men who are short and stocky encounter a unique set of obstacles when it comes to clothing appropriately.

Typically, length is a concern. Pants are excessively lengthy. Sleeves extend beyond the forearms. Jackets are excessively lengthy and shirts are perpetually too long to be worn untucked.

This is particularly true for stocky men, who must purchase clothing that is large enough to accommodate their broad shoulders, torso, hips, and thighs.

Shirts that wear like dresses and trousers that pile up around your ankles are the result of sizing up to accommodate these parts.

However, there is no need for concern. We are present to provide assistance. This guide provides seven straightforward strategies for dressing appropriately as a short and stocky male.

1: Reduce the length of all sentences

Have you ever observed that fashion models consistently wear size medium shirts and 30/32 trousers, despite their height of over six feet?

You are likely accustomed to folding your sleeves up as well, as they are also excessively long for your arms.

What is the solution? One solution is to have your garments tailored. In essence, you acquire shirts that are suitable for the neck, shoulders, and torso, and subsequently have the length and sleeves shortened.

Nevertheless, there are a few issues with this method:

Initially, it is prohibitively costly. It is probable that the purchase price will increase by 50% or more if the body and sleeves are shortened. The term “tailor tax” is used to refer to this additional fee.

Secondly, it is time-consuming. You are required to visit the tailor, have the garment fastened, and retrieve it a few days later, with the expectation that the tailor has performed well.

Third, the proportions and details of your garment may be affected by these modifications. For instance, the bottom button will frequently be too near to the hem when the body length is reduced by more than 1-2 inches.

Also, the plackets and closures may be compromised by shortening the sleeves.

Tailoring is not an exact science, and it is susceptible to errors. It is also inconvenient. However, it is still preferable to wearing clothing that is inadequately fitted.

Tip #2: Refrain from Utilizing Thick Horizontal Stripes
It is likely that you have heard that horizontal patterns can create the illusion of a shorter man. This is partially accurate; however, the following is the issue:

Scale is more important than type when it comes to patterns.

Thinner stripes will be more visually appealing than broader stripes, which have the tendency to elongate the wearer horizontally.

Solids and smaller-scale patterns are the optimal choices for short-but-big men seeking color and pattern.

We are discussing small-scale patterns such as micro gingham, mini checks, and chalk stripes.

Solid colors are invariably a wise choice.

Tip #3: Avoid Excessive Skinniness
We believe that short and stocky men should avoid slim fit clothing whenever possible, despite the fact that it will always be in and out of fashion.

Clothes that are excessively snug will only serve to emphasize your size (which is not a positive outcome), and they are likely to be uncomfortable to wear.

We are not advocating for the wearing of oversized clothing. Regardless of one’s physique, those are unflattering.

Attempt to reduce the amount of fat in clothing. Numerous “traditional” or “classic” fits will be excessively large for you, particularly in the midriff and for individuals with a V-shaped torso.

Slim fit blouses, which typically exhibit a greater degree of taper from the chest to the hips, should not be avoided.

Additionally, search for casual button-ups, such as our Weekend Oxfords. These shirts are designed to be worn untucked and have shortened body lengths. Ours are designed to accommodate individuals who are not particularly tall.

4: Refrain from Wearing Bulky Outerwear

We comprehend. Sometimes, the temperature is so low that it is necessary to don a large parka in order to stay warm. We prioritize functionality over aesthetics; therefore, execute your duties accordingly.

Attempt to locate a lightweight down jacket, such as our Lightweight Down Jacket, if you decide to opt for a puffer jacket. If you wear warm layers underneath, such as a wool cardigan, a high-quality jacket like this will provide adequate warmth for the majority of winter in the majority of regions.

You will be both warm and fashionable, and you will not resemble the Michelin Man, as you will be equipped with a few essential accessories, such as a stylish shawl and multiple layers.

Tip #5: Avoid Severing Yourself in Half
Please be advised that this advice is not intended to be overly prescriptive. Therefore, it is recommended that you wear colors that evoke positive emotions.

Nevertheless, we favor attire that is low in contrast. In other words, we endeavor to preserve a visually uninterrupted line from the top to the bottom. We endeavor to avoid visually severing ourselves.

For instance, we would prefer to pair light wash denim with a white or grey shirt rather than a navy shirt.

Conversely, we would favor a shirt that is darker in color and paired with darker trousers.

This appearance typically produces a subtle enhancement. It will not, at the very least, diminish your height.

If you combine this low contrast technique with clothing that is well-fitted, you will appear extremely smart, irrespective of your height or physique.