I started the series of 'the fit that counts' in my last post and today, we will dig deeper by looking at body types from a different angle, taking both sexes into consideration.
This way, the classification will be in four divisions:
- The tall and slender
- The short and stout
- Short and slender
- Tall and big
The significance of understanding body types and the appropriate way to dress each type might seem important only to women fashion. On the contrary, it is as important in women fashion as in men fashion.
▶The Tall and Slender
source: Pinterest
Clothes for this category should add mass and subtract height. If you have to wear pattern or stripes, pick those that makes you appear broader (for instance, horizontal stripes), oversized outfits should be avoided as they create a scrawnier look which is the last thing you need, you should ensure close fit of your outfits.
Ladies shouldn't be afraid to try boy shorts: not too loose and not too tight. To create illusion of fullness, embrace peplums, plays with patterned tops and bright colours. Invest in waist cinching belts and wear skirts and dresses that fall right above the knees. Baby doll outfits, straight cut and shift dresses add curves and volumes.
Source: Pinterest
Jackets are the weapon of tall and thin men because they add bulk to the body especially to the chest and shoulders. For thicker shoulders, allow extra padding to your frame. The back of your jacket should hang at least to the top of your buttocks to give a more balanced look by shortening the line of your legs. Double- breasted jackets are a great choice for these men as the extra cloth across the chest fills the frame out.
Source:Pinterest
Wear multiple layers and make your neck look beefier. Broad belts and big buckles are great but don't go too oversized.
▶ Short and Stout People:
Image source:google
Short and stout people should opt for outfits with a close fit (note: not tight-fitting). Baggy clothes don't hide your weight, in fact, they make it more obvious. Wear pants with gently tapered leg and slim leg opening.
Outfits with vertically oriented patterns (or stripes) create an illusion of extra length, therefore, makes you appear longer.
Image source:Pinterest
Plain and dark colors should dominate your outfits, this is not a compulsory rule but abiding by it is very rewarding. If you feel the need to indulge patterns, opt for very narrow, wide-spaced vertical stripes of a light color against a dark background. Short and stout ladies should wear well- fitted under garments and V or U-necklines will do your upper body a favour.
Don't ruin your appearance by cluttering your outfit, keep things simple, avoid layering and visual clutter. Pick a single breasted jacket with peaked lapels and a low button over a double breasted jacket.
▶The Short and skinny:
Men in this category should use suspenders more often they use belts to divert attention from their round waist lines. Narrow collars whose points aim downwards help keep the eye traveling all the way up towards your face. The choice of vertically- oriented patterns is strongly advised. Thin strips makes both sexes look elegant, streamlined and taller than they actually are. It's cool to accessorize but keep them small.
Image source: D'
Create a flattering silhouette (use the rule of the thirds, don't ever wear anything that splits your body in half). Ladies should wear heels.
As regards to the choice of jackets, double breasted and clean-lined jackets are perfect for this body type. Coats that set past the waist are perfect. Go for plaids and macro prints to add size. Roll and crew neck sweaters and V-necks tend to accentuate the neck and collar bones: button-up shirts, fastened nearly all the way up are a good way to add shape to your shoulders.
Image source: Pinterest
▶The Tall and Big:
These class of people should by all means avoid bulges, wrinkles or saggy clothes as they make you appear sloppy. Dress simple to avoid your size from having an overwhelming effect, go for light weight fabrics. Use suspenders, ditch belts, throw a stylish hat on when you can! Large accessories are perfect for you, large details: wide ties, wide peak lapels, thick eye wears and large watches. Keep it in mind that the goal of dressing this category is to achieve an overall balanced and proportional look.
Wear spread collared shirts and avoid double breasted suit.
Image source: google
If you must do patterns, do subtle patterns.
Create a flattering silhouette (use the rule of the thirds, don't ever wear anything that splits your body in half). Ladies should wear heels.
As regards to the choice of jackets, double breasted and clean-lined jackets are perfect for this body type. Coats that set past the waist are perfect. Go for plaids and macro prints to add size. Roll and crew neck sweaters and V-necks tend to accentuate the neck and collar bones: button-up shirts, fastened nearly all the way up are a good way to add shape to your shoulders.
▶The Tall and Big:
Image source: tall, fat and all
These class of people should by all means avoid bulges, wrinkles or saggy clothes as they make you appear sloppy. Dress simple to avoid your size from having an overwhelming effect, go for light weight fabrics. Use suspenders, ditch belts, throw a stylish hat on when you can! Large accessories are perfect for you, large details: wide ties, wide peak lapels, thick eye wears and large watches. Keep it in mind that the goal of dressing this category is to achieve an overall balanced and proportional look.
Image source: google
Wear spread collared shirts and avoid double breasted suit. If you must do patterns, do subtle patterns.