Tall, thin people are envied by most of us. They seemingly eat whatever they want, stand out in a room, and can wear a wide range of styles. But they have style challenges just like the rest of us. Without the right approach, clothes may hang too loose or make individuals look taller and leaner than desired. If you’re a tall, thin man, the key is to create balance and proportion while highlighting your natural elegance. Whether you’re dressing for casual days, work, or special events, here are practical Men’s Personal Stylist tips to dress with style and confidence.
Men’s Personal Stylist Tips for Tall, Thin Individuals
1. Choose the Right Fit—Not Too Slim
While slim fit clothing might seem like the natural choice, excessively tight clothing can emphasize your slender frame. Instead, aim for a tailored or modern fit—something that follows your body without clinging. Structured jackets, slightly tapered trousers, and well-fitted shirts offer a clean look without making you look smaller or lankier.
Tip: Try layering with unstructured blazers, overshirts, or knit vests to add dimension and subtly build bulk.
2. Avoid Vertical Stripes
As a tall man, vertical lines will only exaggerate your height. Steer clear of pinstripes or any patterns that draw the eye up and down. Instead, favor horizontal patterns like Breton stripes, plaids, or textured fabrics like tweed or flannel to create visual width.
Tip: Color blocking across the chest or shoulders is another smart way to create balance in your frame.
3. Wear Heavier, Textured Fabrics
Lightweight fabrics tend to drape and accentuate slimness. Choose denser materials—like wool, corduroy, denim, or flannel—that hold their shape and add some visual weight. These fabrics are especially great for pants, outerwear, and cold-weather wear.
Tip: Look for knit sweaters, ribbed textures, or even a chunky scarf to add volume and balance.
4. Mind the Lengths
Shirts and jackets that are too short will make your long torso look out of proportion. At the same time, items that are too long may look baggy or sloppy. The sweet spot is finding pieces designed for tall men that have the right sleeve and hem length without being overly loose.
Tip: Many brands now offer tall sizing, which adds length in the torso and sleeves without widening the garment.
5. Emphasize Layering
Layering is one of the best tools for tall, thin men. Combining a tee under a button-down or wearing a hoodie under a jacket adds texture and volume without looking overdone.
Tip: Don’t forget outerwear. Bombers, field jackets, and double-breasted coats add structure and style.
6. Play with Color and Contrast
Dark monochromatic outfits can make you appear taller and slimmer. To avoid this, break up your outfit with contrast. Light-colored pants with a darker top, or vice versa, help balance your frame.
Tip: Earth tones, soft blues, burgundy, and greens work well to soften sharp lines and add dimension.
Receive Expert Men’s Personal Stylist Advice
Being tall and thin is an advantage in fashion as long as you dress intentionally. Focus on clothes that provide structure and create proportion through texture, layering, and thoughtful patterns. With these simple tips, you can enhance your frame and create a confident, polished wardrobe that suits your build and personal style.
If you’d like help in building a wardrobe that flatters your tall frame, contact me at beth@bethdivinestyle.com! I have experience in dressing tall people.
Keep it sassy, Indy.
Beth Divine, MA, AICI-CIC, Men’s Personal Stylist
