In an article on clothing tricks for shorter men, we wrote that people come in an enormous variety of shapes. Even the same man’s build can fluctuate very quickly. There is no perfect body, but there are ways to improve on it. The secret is to know one’s shape and adapt one’s style to it, for a flattering visual effect. For the slim man who would like to turn this trait into an asset, here are 7 tricks worth remembering, all drawn from our experience with ZAVATE clients.
1. Trick 1: why does a longer jacket flatter the figure?
A sport jacket should cover the seat completely. This rule of style applies to every gentleman, but to the slim man first of all. A covered seat flatters the tall, slim man. Unfortunately, shop-bought sport jackets are made to the pattern of a man of average height. Chances are, then, that the right jacket can only be found at a tailoring atelier. Also on the subject of jackets: shoulder pads, epaulettes and other padding are best avoided.
2. Trick 2: what do darts do for a shaped shirt?
The shaping effect comes from single or double darts sewn into the back of the shirt. With T-shirts, which have no darts, the cut should be only very slightly loose. One detail, though: shaped does not mean skin-tight.
3. Trick 3: why do vertical stripes work against a slim man?
Shirts, T-shirts or jumpers with vertical stripes are best avoided. They lengthen the silhouette even further, for a gangly look. Horizontal stripes and checks, on the other hand, give an impression of volume. Worth remembering next time.
4. Trick 4: why is black the wrong colour?
Except at funerals, head-to-toe black is never a good idea. Black slims the silhouette, which is precisely the opposite of the goal. Bright, light or pastel colours such as white, beige, grey, pale blue or pale pink are the better choice.
5. Trick 5: how can covering the neck add solidity?
The neck is a slender part of the body with great visual lengthening power. For slim men, covering it helps create a “bulking” effect. Polo necks, roll-necks and shirts with a high collar band all do the job. In winter, a scarf, wool or silk, is all it takes. In summer, a polo shirt buttoned all the way up solves the problem.
6. Trick 6: which jeans really suit a slim man?
Skin-tight jeans are never a good idea: the legs end up looking like two sticks. Straight-leg jeans are the answer. With tailored trousers, a deep waistband and front pleats are ideal for adding volume.
7. Trick 7: which last flatters a slim man?
A round toe creates too stark a contrast and throws off the proportions. Slim men are better served by a semi-pointed toe in the Italian style (the so-called chisel toe). A slender silhouette calls for a last of the same tendency. The same advice applies to ankle boots and boots.
Shaped clothes, jacket length, a covered neck, the direction of stripes, a light palette, the right jeans and the style of shoe, then, are the 7 secrets for every slim man. Applied from today, they turn an imperfection into an enviable asset.
