Shopping Guide For Tall Men (6ft5) Where To Find Clothes That Fit
Shopping for clothes as a tall man, especially if you're around 6ft5, can feel like navigating a jungle of ill-fitting garments. Trust me, I get it. You're not alone in this quest for well-fitting clothes. Many tall guys face the same challenges: shirts that are too short in the torso, sleeves that barely reach your elbows, and pants that resemble high-waters. But don't worry, my fellow towering individuals! This guide is here to help you discover the best places to shop for tall men, both online and in brick-and-mortar stores. We'll cover everything from understanding your measurements to identifying brands that cater specifically to your height. Finding clothes that fit properly is about more than just covering your body; it's about feeling confident and comfortable in your own skin. When your clothes fit well, you look better, you feel better, and you project an image of confidence. The key is to know where to look and what to look for. Forget the days of settling for clothes that are "close enough." You deserve better than that. You deserve clothes that are tailored to your build and allow you to express your personal style. Let's embark on this shopping journey together and find those perfect-fitting pieces that will make you stand tall, literally and figuratively. So, get ready to ditch those frustrating shopping experiences and embrace a wardrobe that finally fits your stature and your style. This guide is your roadmap to conquering the world of tall men's fashion.
Understanding Your Measurements
Before diving into the world of tall men's fashion, let's talk measurements. Knowing your measurements is absolutely crucial for finding clothes that fit well, especially when shopping online. It's the foundation upon which your entire wardrobe will be built. You might think you know your size, but sizes can vary wildly between brands. One brand's XL might be another brand's L, and that's before even considering the "tall" factor. Accurate measurements are your secret weapon in the fight against ill-fitting clothes. So, grab a measuring tape (the soft, flexible kind used for sewing) and let's get started. First up, your chest. Wrap the tape measure around the fullest part of your chest, keeping it level and not too tight. Make sure to breathe normally, as holding your breath can skew the measurement. Next, let's tackle your waist. Find your natural waistline, which is usually the narrowest part of your torso, and wrap the tape measure around it. Again, keep the tape level and avoid pulling it too tight. Now for the crucial measurements for tall guys: sleeve length and inseam. For sleeve length, measure from the center of the back of your neck, across your shoulder, and down to your wrist. It's helpful to have a friend assist with this measurement for accuracy. Your inseam is the distance from your crotch down to the hem of your pants. You can measure this by laying a pair of well-fitting pants flat and measuring along the inseam seam. Or, if you're feeling ambitious, you can stand against a wall and have someone measure from your crotch to the floor. Remember to wear shoes when measuring your inseam to ensure an accurate length. Once you have your measurements, write them down and keep them handy. You can even create a note on your phone for easy access. These numbers will be your guide when browsing online stores and consulting size charts. Don't be afraid to compare your measurements to the brand's size chart, as this is the best way to ensure a proper fit. By understanding your measurements, you'll be well-equipped to conquer the world of tall men's fashion and find clothes that fit you perfectly.
Top Brands and Retailers for Tall Men
Now that you've got your measurements locked and loaded, let's explore the best brands and retailers that cater specifically to tall men. The good news is that the demand for tall sizes has been steadily growing, and more and more companies are recognizing the need to offer longer lengths and proportions. This means you have more options than ever before! We'll cover a range of options, from specialized tall men's stores to mainstream retailers that offer extended sizes. One of the first places to look is specialized tall men's stores, both online and in brick-and-mortar locations. These stores are dedicated to providing clothing specifically designed for taller frames, so you're more likely to find the right fit. They often carry a wide selection of items, from everyday basics to formal wear. Some popular specialized tall men's brands include American Tall, Height Of Men, and 2Tall. These brands understand the unique challenges of dressing a tall frame and offer clothing with longer torsos, sleeves, and inseams. They're a great starting point for building a solid foundation for your wardrobe. But don't limit yourself to just specialized stores! Many mainstream retailers also offer tall sizes, either online or in select stores. This can be a more convenient option if you prefer to shop in person or if you're looking for a wider variety of styles. Brands like Gap, Old Navy, Banana Republic, and J.Crew all have tall sections that are worth checking out. They offer a good selection of basics like jeans, shirts, and sweaters in longer lengths. Department stores like Nordstrom and Macy's also carry tall sizes from various brands, so they can be a good one-stop shop for all your clothing needs. When shopping at mainstream retailers, be sure to filter your search results by "tall" or "extra tall" to narrow down your options. And always, always check the size chart before ordering to ensure the best fit. In addition to clothing retailers, don't forget about shoe stores. Tall men often have larger feet, so finding shoes in the right size and width can also be a challenge. Many shoe stores offer extended sizes online, and some even carry wide widths for added comfort. By exploring a mix of specialized and mainstream retailers, you'll be able to find a wide range of clothing and shoes that fit your tall frame and express your personal style. The key is to be patient, persistent, and don't be afraid to try new brands and styles.
Online Shopping Tips for Tall Men
Online shopping can be a lifesaver for tall men, offering a wider selection and greater convenience than traditional brick-and-mortar stores. However, it also comes with its own set of challenges. You can't try things on before you buy, and it can be tricky to gauge the fit and feel of a garment from a picture on a screen. But fear not, my tall comrades! With a few smart strategies, you can conquer the world of online shopping and build a wardrobe that fits you perfectly. The first and most important tip is to know your measurements. We talked about this earlier, but it bears repeating. Accurate measurements are your best defense against ordering the wrong size online. Keep your measurements handy and compare them to the size charts provided by the retailer. Don't assume that your usual size will fit the same way across different brands. Size charts can vary significantly, so take the time to check the specific measurements for each garment. Another crucial tip is to read reviews. Customer reviews can provide valuable insights into the fit, feel, and quality of a garment. Pay attention to reviews from other tall men who have purchased the item. They can offer firsthand accounts of whether the garment runs true to size, is long enough in the torso or sleeves, and holds up well after washing. Look for reviews that mention specific measurements or compare the fit to other brands you're familiar with. Reviews can be a goldmine of information, helping you make informed decisions and avoid costly mistakes. Don't be afraid to take advantage of return policies. Most online retailers offer returns, and it's essential to use this to your advantage. Order a few different sizes or styles of an item and try them on at home. Keep the ones that fit best and return the rest. Make sure you understand the retailer's return policy before you order, including the timeframe for returns and any associated costs. A generous return policy is a sign of a reputable retailer and can give you peace of mind when shopping online. Finally, don't be afraid to experiment. Online shopping offers the opportunity to try new brands and styles that you might not find in your local stores. Take a chance on something different, and you might just discover your new favorite wardrobe staple. With these tips in mind, you can confidently navigate the world of online shopping and find the perfect clothes to fit your tall frame.
Alterations: Your Secret Weapon
Even when shopping at stores that cater to tall men, sometimes you might find an item that's almost perfect but needs a little tweaking. That's where alterations come in. Alterations are your secret weapon for achieving a truly custom fit. They can transform an off-the-rack garment into something that looks like it was made just for you. Don't underestimate the power of a skilled tailor! A few simple adjustments can make a world of difference in how your clothes look and feel. Think of alterations as an investment in your wardrobe. Spending a little extra to get the perfect fit is often worth it in the long run. You'll feel more confident and comfortable in your clothes, and they'll last longer because they'll be less likely to wear out in the wrong places. One of the most common alterations for tall men is adjusting the sleeve length of shirts and jackets. If the sleeves are too short, they can make you look disproportionate. A tailor can lengthen the sleeves, often by letting out extra fabric that's hidden inside the cuff. If the sleeves are too long, they can also be shortened. Another frequent alteration is adjusting the inseam of pants. Finding pants that are long enough can be a challenge for tall guys, and sometimes you might need to buy pants that are slightly too long and then have them hemmed to the correct length. A tailor can also adjust the rise of pants, which is the distance from the crotch to the waistband. A higher rise can be more comfortable for tall men, especially those with longer torsos. Alterations aren't just for formal wear, either. You can also have casual clothes like jeans and t-shirts altered for a better fit. A tailor can slim down the sides of a t-shirt that's too boxy or taper the legs of jeans that are too wide. Finding a good tailor is essential for making alterations a part of your wardrobe strategy. Ask for recommendations from friends or family, or check online reviews. Look for a tailor who has experience working with men's clothing and who understands the nuances of fitting a tall frame. When you bring a garment to a tailor, be sure to communicate clearly what you want done. Try the garment on and point out the specific areas that need adjustment. A good tailor will be able to offer advice and suggestions based on your body type and preferences. With the help of a skilled tailor, you can transform your wardrobe and achieve a perfect fit every time.
Styling Tips for Tall Men
Now that you've found clothes that fit well, let's talk about styling tips that will help you look your best as a tall man. Dressing well isn't just about wearing the right sizes; it's also about choosing the right styles and proportions to flatter your frame. One of the key principles of dressing for your height is to create balance. You want to avoid anything that will make you look even taller or disproportionate. This means paying attention to the length and fit of your clothing, as well as the colors and patterns you choose. One common mistake that tall men make is wearing clothes that are too big. Overly baggy clothing can make you look sloppy and even taller than you actually are. Stick to clothes that fit close to your body without being too tight. Slim-fitting styles can actually help to create a more streamlined silhouette. When it comes to shirts, make sure they're long enough in the torso to stay tucked in. A shirt that's constantly coming untucked can look messy and unflattering. If you're wearing a button-down shirt, consider leaving the top one or two buttons undone to create a more relaxed look. For pants, the length is crucial. Pants that are too short will make you look like you've outgrown them, while pants that are too long will drag on the ground and look sloppy. The ideal length is for the hem of your pants to just touch the top of your shoes. If you're wearing dress pants, a slight break (a small crease in the fabric above your shoe) is a classic and stylish look. When choosing colors and patterns, there are a few things to keep in mind. Solid colors can be a good choice for tall men, as they create a clean and streamlined look. If you want to wear patterns, opt for smaller patterns that won't overwhelm your frame. Vertical stripes can actually make you look taller, so they're best avoided. Horizontal stripes, on the other hand, can help to break up your height and create a more balanced look. Accessories can also play a role in styling your tall frame. A well-chosen belt can help to define your waist and create a more proportional silhouette. A scarf can add a pop of color and interest to your outfit. And don't forget about shoes! Shoes that are too small can make your feet look out of proportion, so be sure to wear shoes that fit properly. By following these styling tips, you can create a wardrobe that flatters your tall frame and makes you look and feel your best. Dressing well is an art, and it takes practice, but the rewards are well worth the effort.
Conclusion: Embrace Your Height and Style
So, there you have it, guys! Your comprehensive guide to shopping as a tall man. It might seem like a daunting task at first, but finding clothes that fit well is definitely achievable. Embrace your height! It's a unique attribute that sets you apart. With the right knowledge and a little bit of effort, you can build a wardrobe that not only fits your frame but also expresses your personal style. Remember, the key takeaways are to know your measurements, explore specialized and mainstream retailers, take advantage of online shopping, don't underestimate the power of alterations, and follow styling tips that flatter your height. Don't settle for clothes that are "close enough." You deserve better than that. You deserve clothes that make you feel confident, comfortable, and stylish. Shopping for clothes as a tall man is a journey, not a destination. It's about discovering what works best for you, experimenting with different styles, and building a wardrobe that reflects your personality. Be patient, be persistent, and most importantly, have fun with it! Fashion is a form of self-expression, so use it to showcase your unique style and personality. Don't be afraid to try new things, step outside your comfort zone, and embrace the world of tall men's fashion. With the resources and knowledge you've gained from this guide, you're well-equipped to conquer the challenges of shopping as a tall man and build a wardrobe that makes you stand tall, both literally and figuratively. So go forth, my tall comrades, and conquer the world of fashion! The perfect-fitting clothes are out there waiting for you. It’s time to find them and rock them with confidence and style. You've got this!
