While being Kate-Moss-skinny isn’t the goal of most men, looking trim never goes out of style. Unfortunately, dressing for their body type is a skill many guys could use a little help with. What some men lack in common sartorial sense they more than make up for with pants that are a little too tight, shorts that are a tad too short, and awkward bulges… everywhere. Before everybody gets on the body-shaming boat, please be reminded that this is an article about dressing to slim down. This is what you signed up for.
Furthermore, all body types can be fashionable. This is fact. This piece should be viewed not so much as a critique of anybody but rather as a means for gentlemen of all sizes to look their best. While going to the gym and dieting are great, they take forever and not everybody has the time or commitment level. This is also fact. Dressing slim to fit your body type can produce immediate results that are psychologically beneficial, boost your self-esteem, and consequently make you more attractive to that special someone. With all that said, here are some tips on how husky hunks of any body type can dress their menswear to look slimmer.
Dark Colours
While wearing all-black-everything isn’t a necessity it certainly doesn’t hurt. Dark colours in general help smooth over any bumps that you may not want on display. If Addams Family chic isn’t your style, dark navy is also set to be a huge trend colour for autumn 2014.
Get Yo’ Measurements Did
Every “How-To-Dress” article written since the dawn of time has included some vague point on dressing “to your size.” Yes, this is ideal. We get it. Unfortunately, many men do not have an accurate idea of what their size actually is. Enter: A tailor. If you haven’t visited a tailor in the last two years, hit one up so you can get the 411 on your chest size, the inseam length of your pants, the width of your arm span, etc.
Tailoring
Once you have your measurements, take your essential items to the tailor and get them all taken in. A fitted blazer gives your silhouette the perfect masculine V-shape, while hemmed trousers won’t make you look squat (and consequently, more round). Alterations are always worth the investment – you’ll thank yourself.
Loosen Up
Even though your clothing should be tailored and fitted, this is not license to go cray-cray with tightness. Nothing is less flattering than a pair of skinny jeans or a V-neck that is 2 sizes too small. If this means giving up your go-to denim from university, so be it. It’s time to graduate your closet to adulthood, boyo.
Layer
While layering can give the appearance of bulkiness, a slim-fit button-up and a tailored suit jacket give a streamlined, professional look. Be sure that you can properly tuck in your shirt though, and that your arms can move in it; otherwise it’s too small. Need an example? Rob Ford. Straight up.
What are some of your menswear tips and tricks on how to dress slimmer? Let us know in the comments below or tweet us @ViewTheVibe.