Short Men & Fashion: The Hidden Struggle
For men who are 5'7" or shorter, finding stylish clothes that fit can feel like an uphill battle. Most clothing brands design their lines with the "average" male height in mind, which is approximately 5'9" in the U.S. According to a study from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), the average American man is actually around 5'9.1" tall. Meanwhile, only 15% of men are shorter than 5'6", leaving this group often overlooked by mainstream fashion brands. This results in ill-fitting garments that are too long, too baggy, or disproportionate, leading shorter men to feel as if they’re swimming in their clothes rather than wearing them.
But the good news? There are practical solutions and a growing number of brands focused on the needs of shorter men. Let’s dive into some expert tips, brand recommendations, and style tricks specifically designed to help you look sharp, confident, and well-dressed.
1. Prioritize Slim Fit and Cropped Styles
Slim-fit clothing is essential. By hugging your frame, these styles create a sharper, more proportional silhouette, which can help you look taller and leaner. A 2017 study in Psychology Today suggested that clothing fit and style significantly impact how others perceive us, with slim-fitting clothes conveying confidence and strength more than baggy or oversized options. Here are some top recommendations:
- Uniqlo: Known for its minimalist styles, Uniqlo offers XS and cropped options that are closer to the skin, perfect for shorter men.
- Bonobos: Known for its athletic, tailored fit, Bonobos has a good selection of slim-fit pants and shirts that are proportional for smaller frames.
- Topman: This brand provides cropped and shorter options for jackets and pants, which keeps your outfits sleek and proportional.
Remember, slim fit doesn’t mean skin-tight. It should create a streamlined look that emphasizes the natural lines of your body without feeling restrictive.
2. Get Friendly with a Tailor: The Transformative Power of Alterations
Tailoring isn’t just a luxury—it’s a necessity for shorter men. A tailor can make adjustments to sleeves, hemlines, and trouser lengths so that your clothes fit perfectly. According to a survey by Real Men Real Style, nearly 40% of men report feeling more confident when wearing tailored clothing. Think of tailoring as an investment in yourself—it may cost a little up front, but the impact on your appearance and self-esteem is significant.
For example:
- Shirt Length: Make sure shirts stop around mid-hip. Avoid anything that covers your crotch as it can make your torso look longer and legs shorter.
- Pants Hem: Have your pants hemmed to break just above your shoes. Too-long pants create a sloppy look and can make your legs appear shorter.
- Jackets: Tailor jackets so they stop around the waistline, avoiding lengths that overwhelm your frame.
3. Discover Brands Specifically for Shorter Men
Some brands are now addressing this gap in the market, creating pieces specifically tailored to shorter men. Here’s a list of brands worth exploring:
- Peter Manning NYC: This brand focuses entirely on clothing for men under 5'8" and has a wide range of styles tailored for shorter frames.
- Ash & Erie: Founded with the mission to serve shorter men, Ash & Erie designs classic pieces that fit men between 5'2" and 5'8", taking the guesswork out of shopping for a tailored look.
- MTailor: If off-the-rack doesn’t work for you, MTailor offers a solution. Using a mobile app, they take custom measurements to create shirts and pants that fit you perfectly.
Shopping at these brands can save you the hassle of constant tailoring and help you build a wardrobe that naturally fits your body.
4. DIY Alterations: Basic Sewing Skills to Save Money
If you’re on a budget or in a pinch, basic sewing skills can be a game-changer. Learning how to hem pants or shorten sleeves can make off-the-rack clothes work for you without the need for a professional tailor every time. A study on the psychology of DIY projects published by The Journal of Positive Psychology found that creating something yourself can foster a sense of accomplishment and boost self-esteem. So not only can DIY alterations save you money—they can also give you an extra boost of confidence.
5. Strategic Layering: Adding Depth Without Bulk
Layering can be tricky for shorter men, as bulky layers can overwhelm your frame. Instead, aim for lightweight, fitted layers that add depth to your outfit without adding width. For instance, pairing a well-fitting t-shirt under a cropped bomber jacket creates a stylish, proportionate look without unnecessary bulk. Avoid oversized jackets and sweaters that extend past your waistline—they can swallow you up and make you appear shorter.
Here’s a quick rule of thumb: your outermost layer should ideally end around your waist or slightly below. This keeps your look sleek and makes you appear taller.
6. Skip the Youth Sizes and Invest in Custom When Possible
Sometimes, shorter men are tempted to buy youth sizes to avoid oversized fits, but this often results in clothes that are too tight or appear juvenile. Instead, if you’re looking for a perfect fit without the compromise, consider custom-made clothing. Brands like Indochino and MTailor offer affordable custom options where you can input your exact measurements. Not only does this save you the hassle of finding clothes that fit, but it also ensures that your style is mature, sleek, and designed for adults.
7. Create the Illusion of Height with Colors and Patterns
Darker colors, vertical stripes, and monochromatic outfits can help elongate your frame and give the appearance of height. A study from Color Research and Application found that darker colors draw the eye upwards, creating an illusion of a longer, slimmer frame. Here’s how to apply it:
- Dark Wash Jeans: Dark jeans in a slim fit are versatile and make your legs look longer.
- Vertical Stripes: Vertical stripes create the illusion of height. Look for subtle striped shirts or trousers with pinstripes.
- Monochromatic Outfits: Dressing in a single color, especially darker hues, minimizes visual breaks and makes you look taller and more put-together.
Final Thoughts: Style is Confidence
Height is just one aspect of style, and true confidence comes from embracing what works for you. By finding the right fit, exploring brands that cater to shorter men, and investing in essential tailoring, you can build a wardrobe that exudes confidence and sophistication. Fashion is about looking and feeling your best, no matter your height.
When you wear clothes that fit well, reflect your personality, and are tailored to your body, you project a strong, confident image to the world. So remember: style isn’t about fitting into mainstream norms; it’s about making the most of what you have and owning it with pride.