The Long and Short of It: Fashion Faux Pas Tall Men Should Sidestep

Being tall has a lot of advantages, but when it comes to dressing well there are a few pitfalls to navigate. The most obvious one being finding clothes that fit properly. “Wait a minute…I thought that was the only one?” I hear you crying. It would be great if this was all you had to contend with when assembling a wardrobe worthy of the glitz and glamour of your local high street or supermarket. However, it turns out that there are other parts of your ensemble that you need to pay attention to in order to keep pace with society’s ever evolving and increasingly lofty demands.

Come along with me on this journey as I walk you through some of the dreaded fashion faux pas that tall men unknowingly commit and guide you on how to avoid these going forward. From the importance of tailoring to the significance of the correct footwear, from the impact of vertical lines to the art of accessorising, you'll uncover the keys to unlocking your unique style as a tall man and self-assurance.

Get these right and you may soon be swapping your local high street for the Milan Catwalk.

5 Common Style Pitfalls in Tall Men's Fashion

1. Ignoring the importance of tailoring

When it comes to fashion faux pas for tall men, one of the most critical mistakes is ignoring the importance of tailoring. Many tall men underestimate the transformative effect that well-fitted clothing can have on their style. Well-fitted clothing can be a game-changer for several reasons:

Confidence Boost: There's a unique confidence that comes with wearing clothing that fits perfectly. When your shirts, jackets, and suits hug your body comfortably without being overly tight, you'll naturally exude confidence in your appearance.

Polished Look: Ill-fitting clothing can give the impression that you're not putting effort into your style. In contrast, well-tailored garments convey a sense of sophistication and attention to detail, leaving a positive impression on others.

Comfort and Mobility: Tailored clothing isn't just about aesthetics; it's about comfort too. Clothing that fits well allows for better freedom of movement, making you feel at ease throughout the day.

I used to wear slim fit dress shirts straight off the shelf and they never fit quite as expected. Every time I wore them it would look like I had an air bag billowing out from my sides, even after attempting specialist techniques like the “military tuck”, think more Michelin Man than Full Metal Jacket. Since making the decision to always get these tailored several years ago, I have never looked back. The impact that this has had on my style and confidence has significantly outweighed the cost and I have introduced tailoring to other items in my wardrobe.

To harness the benefits of well-fitted clothing, it's essential to find a reliable tailor who understands the unique needs of your height. Here's how to go about it:

• Ask for Recommendations: Seek recommendations from friends, family, or colleagues who have had positive experiences with tailors. Personal referrals are often the most trustworthy way to find a skilled professional.

• Check Reviews and Portfolios: In the digital age, it's easy to research tailors online. Look for reviews and testimonials from previous clients. Also, explore the tailor's portfolio to get a sense of their work and style.

• Visit for a Consultation: Schedule a consultation with the tailor to discuss your requirements and get a feel for their expertise. A good tailor will take precise measurements and listen to your preferences.

• Communication is Key: Effective communication is vital when working with a tailor. Clearly express what you want in terms of fit, style, and fabric. Don't hesitate to ask questions or seek their advice.

• Quality Over Price: While budget is a consideration, prioritise quality over price. Tailoring is an investment in your style, and the results should reflect that. A well-fitted suit or shirt can last for years and boost your confidence every time you wear it.

2. Overlooking Proportions

Proportion is about achieving visual balance in your outfit so that you stand out for the right reasons. It's not just about the fit of your clothing; it's about how different elements of your outfit work together to create a balanced and stylish look.

Baggy clothing can create a shapeless silhouette and obscure your body's natural contours. For example, wearing wide-legged jeans with an oversized shirt can create a top-heavy appearance. Tight clothing, on the other hand, can make you look gangly if not executed properly, such as pairing skinny jeans with a very tight-fitting shirt.

The key is to find a middle ground where your clothing fits comfortably without being excessively loose or tight and no single element of your ensemble dominates the others. For instance, if you're wearing a loose-fitting t-shirt, try and opt for jeans that are more tailored.

3. Avoiding Patterns and Colours

It has been said that tall men should stick to plain, dark colours and avoid patterns at all costs. This could not be further away from the truth and this conservative approach to dressing could seriously limit your style potential. Opting for a limited palette of plain, dark colours can result in a monotonous and uninspiring wardrobe. While I agree that these colours are timeless and versatile, they shouldn't be your sole choices.

There's a prevailing notion that avoiding vertical lines is a safe bet. This misconception often stems from the fear of appearing even taller than one already is (which some of us don’t mind). It's important to differentiate between appearing taller and appearing more elongated. Vertical lines in your clothing can elongate your body, creating a refined look without necessarily making you seem taller than you are.

Incorporating patterns and colours into your outfits adds vibrancy and variety, making your style more engaging and appealing. Patterns can be your style allies as a tall man, they break up the vertical lines of your frame and create visual interest. Stripes, checks, plaids, and geometric patterns are just a few examples of patterns that can enhance your look. When choosing patterns, consider their scale; smaller patterns can be subtle, while larger patterns make a bolder statement.

4. Disregarding Footwear

While tall men don't need heels for extra height, the choice of shoes can still affect the perception of your stature. For instance, shoes with thicker soles or certain styles like boots can subtly add height without making you appear disproportionately tall. This can be particularly advantageous in social or professional settings. However, it's important to choose footwear that enhances your look without making you feel uncomfortable or out of place.

Consider the occasion, formality, and colour scheme of your outfit when selecting shoes. Your footwear should seamlessly blend into your ensemble. Here are some options to ensure that you have a versatile collection:

• Classic Dress Shoes: Essential for formal occasions and professional settings, classic dress shoes like Oxfords and Derby shoes provide timeless elegance.

• Boots: Boots, such as Chelsea boots, offer a blend of style and durability, perfect for various occasions and weather conditions.

• Loafers: Loafers strike a balance between comfort and sophistication, making them suitable for business-casual and smart-casual outfits.

• Canvas: Clean, minimalist trainers are versatile and comfortable, making them suitable for casual, smart-casual, and even business-casual outfits.

• Athletic Shoes: Quality athletic shoes are essential for sports and physical activities. Ensure they provide proper support and comfort.

Your choice of shoes is a pivotal aspect of your overall style and can impact not only your look but also your confidence. By paying attention to your footwear, selecting versatile options, and maintaining your shoes, you'll complete your outfits with confidence and style. Remember that your shoes should enhance your overall appearance, serving as the finishing touch to your fashion statement.

5. Neglecting Accessories

Accessories are often the unsung heroes of a well-put-together outfit, and tall men sometimes overlook their importance. Ignoring accessories can result in missed opportunities to elevate your style and make a lasting impression. Here are a few reasons why paying attention to accessories is important and how you can use them to enhance your overall look.

Balancing Your Outfit

Accessories can be used strategically to balance your outfit. For tall men, this is especially important because it can help break up the vertical lines of your frame. For example, a stylish belt can create a horizontal focal point, adding interest to your look and preventing it from appearing too one-dimensional.

Expressing Your Personality

Accessories are a canvas for personal expression. Whether you're a minimalist who prefers understated elegance or someone who enjoys bold statements, accessories can convey your unique personality and style.

Complementing Your Outfit

Accessories should complement your outfit, not overpower it. Consider the occasion and the colour palette of your attire when selecting accessories. They should seamlessly blend into your ensemble. If you wear dress shirts and suits, ties and pocket squares are excellent accessories to consider. They allow you to experiment with colours, patterns, and textures.

Confidence is the key to successful accessorising. Don't be afraid to experiment and try different combinations until you find what works best for you. Remember that accessories are meant to enhance your style and reflect your personality.

Bringing it all together

When it comes to style, every individual's journey is unique, shaped by personal preferences, experiences, and, yes, even their height. As we've explored throughout, there are common fashion faux pas that tall men should try and steer clear of from ignoring the importance of tailoring to overlooking proportions and accessories.

As you navigate your style journey, remember that confidence is your most valuable accessory. Embrace your unique style and celebrate your height, whether you prefer classic elegance, contemporary minimalism, or bold statements.