A Guide to Suit Design for Different Body Shapes and Types
Achieving a stylish and comfortable look in your attire isn’t about following fashion fads; it’s about understanding your body shape.
Each body type has its own unique characteristics and tailoring requirements. Here are some general tips to enhance your physique:
Simple Guide to Suit Design for Different Body Sizes
TALL & SLIM BODY TYPES
- Avoid pinstripes but consider check or glenplaid fabrics to add volume.
- Opt for a double-breasted jacket to broaden your frame.
- Aim for a slightly roomier fit to add drape and balance.
- Choose trousers with a medium to full break and cuffs to break up your linear shape.
- Prefer a notch lapel for a more versatile look.
- Keep pockets straight and consider adding a ticket pocket for visual interest.
- Aim for a jacket length that covers the seat for a flattering silhouette.
- Use horizontal accents like belts, folded pocket squares, and tie bars to create visual balance.
- Consider a slightly higher button stance for proportion, and three-piece suits for added depth.
- Point shirt collars work best for this body type.
HEAVY BODY TYPES
- Opt for a slightly longer jacket to elongate the body visually.
- Avoid check patterns and choose solid, darker colours or pinstripes for a slimming effect.
- Select a deeper button stance to create a flattering “V” shape.
- Pay close attention to fit, considering areas like the lats, love handles, hips, and thighs.
- Side-adjusters are recommended over belts for comfort and slimming effect.
- Peak lapels can enhance broad shoulders and draw attention upward.
- Slanted pockets and ticket pockets can help streamline the midsection.
- Choose heavier, durable fabrics and consider omitting the lining for breathability.
- Pair spread collar shirts with sturdy tie fabrics to complement a large neck.
- Opt for trousers with a light to medium break and a slightly wider leg to balance the top-heavy look.
- Ensure the jacket fits well at the stomach and keep it buttoned when standing.
SHORT BODY TYPES
- Opt for a slightly shorter jacket to lengthen the leg line.
- Consider slim peak lapels for proportion with the neck and shoulders.
- One-button jackets create a balanced silhouette and visually lengthen the body.
- Ensure sleeves are trimmed appropriately, showing some shirt cuff.
- Keep trouser rise low and legs slim with minimal break.
- Choose fabrics that are dark and sleek for a lengthening effect.
- Select narrow shirt collars and slim ties to maintain proportion.
MUSCULAR BODY TYPES
- Avoid overly padded shoulders and opt for a longer jacket with a lower button stance.
- Choose dark, slimming fabrics like herringbones and pinstripes.
- Reinforce seams to accommodate muscular proportions.
- Consider unlined jackets for breathability.
- Opt for wider lapels to balance broad shoulders.
- Choose trousers with ample room in the seat, hips, thighs, and calves.
- Aim for a full break and slightly wider trouser bottom.
- Opt for side-adjusters over beltloops for a streamlined look.
February 9, 2024
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