Not all men were created equal! Whoever said we were, didn’t understand fashion or style. Our female counterparts have it much more difficult than we do, many more shapes and curves to take into account and try to accommodate or camouflage. But this does not mean that we do not have to pay attention or understand the basics. Remember this too, fashion refers to the clothing itself, while the word style is the way you manage and coordinate the fashion you wear. Just because something is really classy doesn’t always translate into something that you should include as part of your style. Your age, situation, and body type play an important role.
Understanding your body and how to dress it to minimize your flaws and accentuate your positive attributes is crucial to your good image. The real test in determining what to buy and wear is always the fit of your clothing. Just because something costs an arm and a leg doesn’t mean it fits you or your shape. Don’t just buy things you know are hot without analyzing the weather or if it doesn’t work for you.
There are 3 basic body types: heavy, medium, and slim. There are also 3 height variations: tall, medium, and short. The guy who is of average build and height has it pretty easy. You can use almost anything and make it work for you. The key is to dress in clothes that fit well. The items should not be too big or too small. But if you don’t fit into that category, we need to look at you and how you should dress or what you should avoid to optimize your appearance.
Heavy set:
· Avoid horizontal stripes or patterns: If you have a belly or are a little on the “teddy bear” side, avoid horizontal stripes and patterns. Instead, choose stripes or patterns that are vertical (top to bottom), a person’s eye will follow the lines and give you the visual illusion of length and a slimmer structure.
Avoid pants with pleats or tapered legs – the pleats only and the extra fabric around the midsection and body. Tight pants will cause the fabric of the pant leg to bunch up at the ankle, making it appear bulkier and larger than it is. Go for straight leg pants with a flat front. This will give you a slimmer appearance by creating a straight line from your hips to your shoe.
Avoid bulky or too square or round shoes: A bulky shoe gives the illusion of weight. Instead, choose shoes that are sleek and streamlined. This will also give you a slimmer appearance.
· No large prints or patterns – Large prints or patterns only draw attention to their shape. Wearing shirts with a print or large print will only draw attention to your upper body and if you are tying to hide your tummy this will only do the opposite. Choose prints and patterns that are small and unobtrusive.
No strong or ultra-bold colors – Strong, bold colors or dramatically contrasting tops and bottoms will only break your body line of sight in half. This will also draw attention to your abdomen. Instead, go for a monochrome color scheme. This will instantly make you look 15 pounds lighter and create a perfect line from your neck to your feet.
Avoid turtlenecks or crew neck shirts – this will only make you appear heavier than it is. Instead, go for a neckline that’s more open, like a v-neck. This will make you look much better and ultimately slimmer.
Thin and tall:
· Stay away from vertical stripes – Vertical stripes will only make you look slimmer. Choose shirts that have horizontal stripes to give the appearance of volume. The horizontal stripes will make your shoulders and chest look bigger.
Wear fitted or fitted shirts – Large shirts with a square cut will only make it look like you’re wearing a tent. Fitted shirts will create a great V shape and give you a more muscular look. To add a little more, wear a shirt underneath or a cape on top to add visual weight to your body.
Choose lighter colors – all black or dark shades will only make you look slimmer than you are. Choose colors that are lighter in tone and ultimately give you a heavier look.
Shorts:
Avoid Baggy Pants – Baggy pants will only make you look lower. Choose skinny or straight leg pants to give you the look or height.
Avoid pleated and cuffed pants – pleats and cuffs will break your body’s line of sight and ultimately make you look low. Instead, opt for flat-front pleatless pants to ensure a clean, crisp line from waist to toe.
Wear pants that have a low rise: Move up to the distance between the bottom of the crotch and the top of the waist. Don’t buy regular-rise pants; instead, choose pants that are designated low-rise. This will prevent a baggy or flabby crotch and give you the appearance of longer legs.
Avoid large prints – large prints will eat you up. Choose shirts and pants that have a small print to make you look taller.
Understanding and paying attention to your body shape and complexion is essential for you to look your best. The reality is that we are not all the same in terms of shape and height, but the way you dress and wear clothes will help bridge the gap.
