Menswear Style Options for Every Body Type
Finding clothes that make you look and feel your best can sometimes feel like a challenge, especially if off-the-rack options don’t seem to fit quite right. At Carpe Diem Men, we understand how important it is to feel confident in your clothing—whether you’re stepping into a boardroom, attending a wedding, or simply going about your day.
The good news? Dressing for your body type is less about restrictions and more about celebrating your individuality with the right pieces, tailored just for you.
Knowing your body type is the first step to finding clothes that flatter your physique.
Athletic Build
If you have broad shoulders, a narrow waist, and muscular proportions, look for slim-fit or tailored shirts that highlight your shape without feeling tight. A classic example is a tailored blazer with structured shoulders paired with flat-front trousers. These create a sleek, modern silhouette perfect for occasions like a networking event or formal dinners.
For the Office: A slim-fit dress shirt in a solid color, paired with tailored flat-front trousers and a structured blazer. Add a leather belt and dress shoes for a professional, confident look.
For a Night Out: A fitted turtleneck sweater layered under a tailored sports coat, combined with dark slim-fit trousers and leather boots. Finish the outfit with a simple pocket square for a modern look.
For Weekend Casual: A tailored button-down shirt with rolled-up sleeves, slim-fit chinos, and clean white sneakers. Add a lightweight jacket for an effortlessly, relaxed look.
Tall and Slim
For longer limbs and a lean frame, layering is your best friend. Double-breasted jackets or suits with peak lapels can add volume and balance. Try pairing a textured sweater with a tailored overcoat and mid-rise trousers for a refined look during a winter evening out in Toronto. Avoid overly slim cuts that might make you appear lanky.
For the Office: A double-breasted suit with peak lapels, layered over a crisp dress shirt and mid-rise trousers. Pair with polished dress shoes for a balanced, sharp look.
For a Night Out: A textured sweater layered under a tailored overcoat, paired with slim (not skinny) trousers and leather boots. Add a scarf in colder seasons for warmth and style.
For Weekend Casual: A button-down shirt worn under a lightweight knit sweater, paired with straight-fit chinos and sneakers. Finish with a structured jacket for added balance.
Broad Build
For fuller chests, waists, or midsections, choose tailored pieces that offer structure but don’t cling. A single-breasted blazer in a dark, solid color works beautifully for events like a holiday party or business meeting. Pair it with trousers that have a clean line and avoid boxy or overly loose fits that might add unnecessary bulk.
For the Office: A single-breasted dark blazer over a tailored dress shirt, paired with trousers and polished leather shoes for a clean, structured look.
For a Night Out: A lightweight V-neck sweater layered under a dark blazer with tailored trousers and leather shoes. Add a pocket square for a touch of personality.
For Weekend Casual: A well-fitted button-down shirt paired with straight-leg chinos and a structured jacket.
Shorter Stature
A compact frame benefits from clean, streamlined looks. Monochromatic outfits, such as a navy suit paired with a light blue shirt, can elongate your appearance. Shorter jacket lengths and slim-fit trousers ensure balance. For casual outings, like brunch or a visit to a museum, avoid oversized pieces that can overwhelm your proportions.
For the Office: A navy suit with a light blue dress shirt and slim-fit trousers. Pair with a narrow belt and sleek dress shoes to create a clean, elongated look.
For a Night Out: A tailored blazer in a dark tone with a fitted turtleneck and slim trousers. Finish with ankle boots to add subtle height and polish.
For Weekend Casual: A fitted button-down shirt paired with dark chinos and a lightweight bomber jacket. Add clean sneakers for a sharp, streamlined appearance.
Get the Right Fit Every Time with Tailoring
One size does not fit all, and even the best off-the-rack garments often need adjustments to truly shine. This is why tailoring makes all the difference. At Carpe Diem Men, our in-house tailoring ensures every garment fits your unique measurements perfectly.
Whether it’s shortening sleeves for a precise look or adding darts for a sharper silhouette, we make sure your clothes are truly yours. Learn more about how tailoring enhances your wardrobe in our Men’s Tailoring Tips.
Additional Tips
The right fabrics and styles can also make a world of difference. Lightweight wool suits drape well and flatter most builds, making them a versatile choice for both business meetings and formal events.
For slimmer frames, textured fabrics like tweed or corduroy add dimension.
Broader builds benefit from stretch materials in trousers or shirts, offering comfort and flexibility for everyday wear.
Accessories play a crucial role in completing your look. A slim belt complements a leaner frame, while a slightly wider belt adds proportion for broader builds.
When selecting ties, narrower styles suit shorter or slimmer individuals, while broader ties balance out larger physiques.
Small details, like a pocket square with a pop of color or a scarf in a luxurious fabric, can elevate your outfit and make it feel personal. For more inspiration, visit our Essential Suit Accessories.
Conclusion
Inclusive menswear is about empowering every man to feel comfortable and confident in his own skin. Whether you’re dressing for a major life event, a casual outing, or your daily routine, Carpe Diem Men is here to guide you.
Our curated selection of menswear, combined with personalized styling advice and expert tailoring, ensures that every man leaves our store looking and feeling his absolute best.
Visit us at 569 Danforth Ave in Toronto to experience the difference a well-fitted wardrobe can make. Let us help you craft a style that’s uniquely yours.
