Your wardrobe should always be working for you, not against you and for those of you guys out there who are on the broader and bigger side, there are some simple tips and tricks you can use to help you look leaner. As a stylist, Ashely works with guys of all shapes and sizes, and we’re excited to share a few simple things she’s learned over the years.
1. Get the right fit
It may be a common misconception that bigger men should dress in baggier clothes. Wrong. It’s even more important to find the right fit that flatters your shape if you want to look slimmer. Get the right size first, then get things tailored properly as well. Don’t forget to check out all of our fit guides for more info!
2. Try darker colors
It’s true, dark colors are naturally slimming, especially on your lower half. Plus, a dark, monochromatic effect can also help slim you down
3. Go for larger-scale patterns
From there, you can introduce some patterns but keep them on the larger side to match your larger frame. And yes, it’s also true that you want to avoid horizontal stripes, they’re only going to accentuate your width.
4. Keep your blazers/suit jackets buttoned
If you’re wearing a well-fitting suit or blazer keeping it buttoned, it slims you visually and can take pounds off your look. (If you don’t believe me, believe Tom Ford, he knows a thing or two). By keeping it buttoned you’ll be nipping in your waist and giving you a leaner shape.
5. Keep casual jackets/sweaters unzipped/unbuttoned
If you’re wearing more casual items like a bomber jacket or cardigan you want to leave those unbuttoned to break up your middle and create some vertical visual aspects. Despite what you may think, keeping them zipped up will actually draw more attention to your stomach area and create extra bulk.
6. Choose the right materials
The wrong fabrics and materials can definitely work against you. Thick, heavy fabrics can make you look too bulky and super thin ones can be too clingy. The right textured fabric can also lean you down, as we discussed in our polo video, so find the right ones that work for you.
7. Add a layer or two
Throwing on a well-fitting jacket or blazer can definitely work in your favor to create a leaner visual look, but you’ve got to be smart about it. A common misconception is that a lot of layering will slim you down, but too many can make you look even bulkier, so keep it to just one or two. Try wearing a cardigan or vest underneath your suit jacket or blazer but be sure to keep the inner layer buttoned while the jacket stays unbuttoned.