ALPHA MALE: Smart Style for Big Men

Wednesday, November 23, 2011

Marc Streisand, GoLocal Men's Style Expert

Big can mean Chris Farley or Lebron James: it's all about working with it

Over the next few weeks, we’re going to take a look at three different body types, and discuss the best way to dress to match each. Let’s start with the obvious; nobody likes the fat guy in the speedo and people laugh at the skinny kid in the big baggie clothes. Each body type carries some major “dos” and some ugly “don’ts”. We’re going to look at everything – from the best clothing to effective grooming tips to match each type.

This week, we’re going to take a look at the “large body type”. There’s major variation across the category – Lebron James certainly has a large body type…as did Chris Farley. Fit and muscular or short and fat, a large body type means that you’re height or weight is above the masses. There are lots of tips that will allow a man with a large body type to look his best.

First and foremost, fit is the most important principle when dressing any body type.

If you are on the larger side, it is important to select clothing that skims over your frame to best smooth out your physique. Everyone can picture a fat guy in a skinny guy shirt – it just doesn’t flatter. Blazers should be a little longer to provide better coverage of your posterior. Additionally, tops and blazers with slightly structured shoulders will better balance your body’s proportions and direct attention to your face.

As to your pants, stay away from the skinny jeans seen on countless RISD students around town.

Choose jeans and trousers with a relaxed fit. Pay attention to your hemlines, and make sure your pants fall close to the end of your heel. This will give the illusion of longer and leaner legs. Finally, relaxed fit does not mean “baggy”. Often, men think that baggy clothing will hide excess pounds – WRONG. Oversized clothing tends to add weight to a heavy frame. Make sure clothing isn’t too tight…and isn’t too loose.

Next, take a look at the color palette and pattern of your clothing.

Larger men tend to look better in dark colors – greys, browns, navy, and black. While bright colors accentuate a large frame, dark colors reduce a larger frame. Also, pay attention to your color coordination. Dark clothing should cover the areas of your body that protrude the most, ie- your gut. The colors should be monochromatic as too many contrasting shades will cut you in half, often emphasizing a large middle section and making your legs seem shorter. Contrary to common belief, research suggests that horizontal stripes are actually more slimming than vertical stripes. The best way to make a sound judgment is to look in the mirror or ask your wife or significant other.

Finally, avoid all pleated pants, bulky wool sweaters and puffer vests as they add unnecessary padding to your frame.

Stick to single-breasted blazers in thinner fabrics, using them to disguise your love handles and conceal your belly. Three button blazers look better on larger men than single or two button blazers. Stay away from turtle necks, as they’ll make your neck disappear. Last, use slick accessories to distract the eye from the bulge.

As both the president and owner of Marc Allen Inc, Marc Streisand takes the custom clothing business very personally. Having enjoyed a successful career in the clothing industry since 1985, Marc brings his clients extensive specialized experience in menswear. Prior to taking over the Marc Allen store in March 2005, he cultivated his knowledge of luxury male attire in New York and his home state of New Jersey, where he began his vocation at Wallach's Specialty Stores. Nothing gives him greater pleasure, he says, than seeing raw cloth transformed into a custom outfit that can directly impact his customer's lifestyle.

Don't miss Marc Streisand on GoLocalTV, fresh every day at 4pm and on demand 24/7, here.