HOW TO CHOOSE THE BEST-FITTING CLOTHES FOR PLUS-SIZE MEN?

Introduction

Finding well-fitting and fashionable clothing can be challenging when you need extended sizes. However, having the right know-how makes building a great wardrobe achievable. Focusing on fit, adopting some simple styling tricks, and choosing suitable fabrics and colors can transform how clothing looks on your body.

This guide is for any plus-size man who wants practical tips and strategies for choosing clothes that complement his body type. The goal is to boost your confidence and make dressing daily a pleasure rather than a chore. By implementing this advice for choosing pieces that drape well and minimize problem spots, you'll be ready to rock your style with pride.

Know Your Measurements

Having accurate measurements is critical for finding well-fitting plus-size clothing. Many men go by the size on the tag, but two men wearing XL can have very different body shapes and proportions.

The key measurements to know are:

• Chest:Measure around the fullest part of your chest, keeping the measuring tape straight but not too tight.
• Waist:Measure around your natural waistline, about an inch above your belly button.
• Hips:Measure around the widest part of your hips and rear.
• Inseam:Measure from your crotch down to where you want your pants to hit.
• Arm length:With arms slightly bent, measure from shoulder to wrist.

If you know these key dimensions, you can compare them to the garment measurements retailers provide to choose the right size. Body shapes vary. So, only assume an XL top will fit if XL pants do.

Taking accurate measurements and ordering several sizes to try on initially will help you identify styles that fit your unique body type. Proper fit should be comfortable and flattering without pulling or sagging. Use your measurements as a starting point to hone in on well-fitted plus-size styles for your build.

Focus on Fit, Not Size

• Fit matters more than the size number on the tag when finding flattering, stylish clothes as a plus-sized man. Focus on how the garment drapes and shapes your body rather than getting hung up on standard sizing. The size that fits best will vary across different brands and styles.

• Instead of focusing on the size label, pay attention to how the fabric lays on your frame. Well-fitted clothes should skim your body without pulling or billowing. They should be comfortable with room to move and breathe. If button-front shirts pull at the buttons, size up if they look boxy and shapeless, size down.

• Pants should sit comfortably at your natural waist without gapping at the back. Straight leg and athletic cuts can balance fuller thighs. Make sure the leg width is proportional to your build. If pants pinch at the waist or thighs, size up. Suppose they are loose in the seat or legs, size down.

• Aim for garments with some stretch or flexibility that mold to your body shape. Spandex-infused fabrics and athletic cuts work well for plus sizes. Focus on how clothes fit your unique proportions for a tailored, polished look.

Understand Body Type

Men's bodies come in different shapes, and understanding your body type can help determine which styles and fits will be most flattering. The two most common body shapes for plus-size men are apple and pear.

Apple Body Type

• The apple body type is characterized by carrying more weight in the torso and abdominal area than in the hips and legs. Apple shapes tend to have broader shoulders and chests, smaller legs, and minimal difference between waist and hip measurements.

• For the apple shape, avoid boxy or oversized fits in favor of V-necks, vertical patterns, and dark colors on top to draw the eye downwards. Blazers and sport coats with shoulder padding can also minimize the upper body. Balance out wider chests with straight-legs or slim pants.

Pear Body Type

• The pear body type carries more weight in the hips, thighs, and rear with a narrower upper body. Shoulders are generally more sloped, the torso is shorter, and there is a well-defined waistline.

• For pear shapes, draw attention upwards with medium to lighter colors or patterns on top. V-necks and cardigans that end at the broadest part of the hips help create balance. Trousers with pleats, cuffs, and medium to wide legs pair well with the lower body. Avoid pants that are too tight in the seat and thigh area.

Choose Stretch Fabrics

When shopping for plus-size clothing, look for pieces made from fabrics with some stretch or give. Stretchy fabrics have more "give" and flex, which allows them to fit closely to your body without feeling too tight or restrictive.

The benefits of stretchable fabrics for plus-size men include:

• More comfort - Stretch fabrics move with you and allow a more excellent range of motion. They won't bind or pinch when you sit, bend, or reach.

• Better fit - Stretchy fabrics conform to your shape for a tailored, polished look, not a sloppy, oversized. They maintain their shape instead of sagging.

• Flattering silhouette - Fabrics like spandex and stretch cotton create a smooth, slimming effect rather than emphasizing bulges or rolls.

• Versatility - Stretchy pieces transition well from day to night. They look great dressed up or down.

• Durability - Fabrics with spandex or stretch retain their shape and recover wash after wash. They last longer than stiff, non-stretch fabrics.

Darker Colors Slim Down  

One of the most effective styling tricks plus-size men can use is wearing darker colors. Darker shades have a slimming effect that can create a more flattering silhouette. When choosing tops, go for deep colors like black, charcoal, navy, or forest green rather than pastels or brights. Pair dark tops with dark bottoms for a streamlined look.

The slimming magic of darker colors allows you to minimize areas you don't want to accentuate. It draws the eye down and highlights vertical lines. Plus-size men can create a pulled-together, polished look that flatters their frame using strategic shade combinations.

Wear Layers

Layering shirts and accessories make creating a polished, put-together look easy. Start with a v-neck or crew neck t-shirt in a neutral color like black, gray, or white. Layer a button-down shirt or casual blazer on top. In cooler weather, add a stylish sweater or cardigan over the button-down.

Layering creates dimension and slims your silhouette. It also allows you to mix and match your existing wardrobe creatively. As the weather changes, remove layers for a new look. Pairing both structured and unstructured layers gives you versatility from season to season.

Focus on Vertical Lines

Vertical lines are an essential pattern for plus-size men's fashion. Clothing with vertical stripes, lines, seams, or details will help visually lengthen your body.

Some tips for using vertical lines:

• Choose shirts with vertical striped patterns, making you appear taller and slimmer. Thin pinstripes are flattering options.

• Select pants with a vertical seam line down the center front of each leg. This will make your legs seem longer.

• Opt for a sports coat or blazer with vertical details like flap pockets, vents, and stitching. The solid vertical accents are slimming.

• Wear ties with diagonal stripe patterns, which create an elongated look. Solid ties can work, too. Stay away from broad horizontal stripes.

• Look for shoes with a vertical line design, such as monk straps or bicycle toe dress shoes. The vertical division makes your foot appear less comprehensive.

Accessorize

Accessorizing your outfit makes it easy to pull a look together and show off your style. For plus-size men, accessories are a great way to add visual interest and draw positive attention.

• Hats are a fun and stylish accessory to wear. A nice fedora, pork pie hat, or cap can give your outfit flair. Go for natural materials like wool felt, cotton, or straw rather than polyester blends. Ensure you get the right size hat with a flexible brim that doesn't overwhelm your face.

• Shoes are crucial to tying your outfit together. Invest in comfortable leather shoes like oxfords, loafers, or boots in classic styles. Darker colored shoes can make feet look smaller. Go for leather belts that match your shoes.

• Bags are both fashionable and functional. Backpacks, messenger bags, and leather, canvas, or nylon briefcases work well. Ensure bags fit proportionately to your body type and don't overwhelm your frame.

Conclusion

Most importantly, buy clothes that make you look and feel your best. Having a few well-fitting items in your wardrobe that flatter your body will go a long way in boosting your confidence. Keep going even if some things don't work out; focus on the ones that do. With some effort to find brands and styles that cater to you, plus-size men can develop their unique fashion sense.