Odds are that if you're reading this article, it's because you are dissatisfied with your height. Don't be offended; I would have liked to be a few inches taller as well, but unfortunately, we have no control over how tall we will be... or at least not yet.
Until we do, short men will continue to have a slight disadvantage in the fashion world, in terms of finding threads that fit properly, as few manufacturers make clothes for men who are shorter than 5'5".
Well, I'm here to help you find the clothes that fit right and make you look taller in the process.
taller tips
Before we start with the fashion advice, the following are some simple yet often overlooked tips that can help you appear taller:
1. Maintaining good posture is key if you want to hit your maximum height potential. Remember to sit with your back straight and stand proud with your head up high at all times. A slouched stance will only make you look shorter, not to mention insecure.
2. Keep in mind that, as a general rule, short hair works best for shorter men. Long hair tends to hide the neck and shoulders, making your head and body look like one body part, which doesn't help you in your quest to look taller.
3. Another tip to maximize your stature is to stay fit and trim at all times. Heavier and extremely muscular men tend to look broader and stubbier, but staying lean and having some muscle (such as built, defined shoulders) can help add some height to your overall frame.
hit the stores
The best way to start shopping is by cracking open the yellow pages and calling various men's clothing stores to ask what styles and sizes they carry. You should also ask the salesperson if they can make special orders for shorter men or if they offer custom-made clothing.
Finally, another way to land yourself smaller sizes is to order clothing from "short size" catalogs or try finding garments in the boys' section of larger department stores (you'd be surprised by the great stuff you can find!).
general styling tips
Wear vertical stripes Anything that elongates your height is a good thing. For example, vertical stripes in clothing can help extend the look of your shorter body. Patterns such as pinstripe, chalkstripe and herringbone also offer that "vertical" effect.
Note: Steer clear of plaid and checkered shirts.
Wear one color
Wearing a shirt and pants in the same color will prevent obvious breaks in your natural frame, and as a result can give the illusion that you're taller.
Opt for dark shades & light fabrics
In addition, dark colors, especially black, tend to have a slimming effect and help shorter men seem more elongated. The same applies to light or medium-weight fabrics. Heavier fabrics, on the other hand, tend to make you look bulkier and shorter.
A proper fit is key
Finally, remember that it's important that your clothes fit flawlessly. Looser garments can make you look stumpy, so opt for a fit that is trim rather than baggy.
