The Perfect Shirt: Matching Dress Shirts and T-Shirts with Your Body Type
Your body type makes a huge difference in how your clothes fit. Like we discussed in the last post, not all cuts are made for all body types. There are three primary body types that can also blend into different categories, but we will stick with the three main body types of now. Ectomorph (Slim), Mesomorph (Muscular/Athletic), and Endomorph (Broad/Stocky).
Shirt selection can make all of the difference based on your body type. A well fitted shirt, be it T-shirt or dress shirt, can change your appearance and confidence. Choosing a shirt that fits well can elevate your overall look.
Everybody wears a shirt, whether it is an undershirt, a casual T, or a dress shirt. Choosing the right one for your body type is key to looking your best.
Understanding Different Body Types:
1. Ectomorph (Slim)
Key Features: Narrow frame, smaller joints, lean muscle mass. Shoulders and hips are typically aligned, giving a straight-up-and-down look. Ectomorphs often have a fast metabolism, which can make gaining muscle or weight more difficult.
Fashion Tips: Ectomorphs benefit from layering to add bulk and texture to their frame. Structured blazers, thicker fabrics, and fitted clothing help create the illusion of more volume. Avoid overly baggy clothes, which can make you appear even slimmer.
2. Mesomorph (Muscular/Athletic)
Key Features: Naturally muscular with a well-defined chest and shoulders that are wider than the hips. This body type typically finds it easier to gain muscle mass and maintain a toned physique.
Fashion Tips: Mesomorphs look great in fitted clothing that emphasizes their natural muscle definition, but without restricting movement. Opt for tailored pieces like slim-fit shirts, jackets with room in the shoulders, and tapered pants that show off the V-shaped body.
3. Endomorph (Broad/Stocky)
Key Features: Wider waists and hips, with shorter limbs. Endomorphs tend to carry weight more easily, particularly around the midsection. The rounder belly and shorter stature can make it challenging to find clothes that fit comfortably and look sharp.
Fashion Tips: Endomorphs should look for clothing that adds definition to their frame, such as structured jackets or dark, solid colors that streamline the torso. Avoid tight or overly loose clothing; instead, focus on garments with a clean, tailored fit to create a more balanced silhouette.
Blended Body Types
While these categories serve as helpful references, many people are a blend of two or more body types. For example:
Dad-bod: A mix of mesomorphic and endomorphic features, often characterized by broader shoulders and arms with a bit of a belly. This body type can highlight strength (from activities like lifting and carrying kids), but also comes with a softer midsection.
Fashion Tips: The key to dressing a dad-bod is to strike a balance between fitted and comfortable. Focus on tailored pieces for the upper body to showcase your strength, and opt for relaxed-fit pants or jeans with stretch to provide comfort without sacrificing style.
Other Considerations
Height: Tall and short body types can further influence how different clothes fit and should be considered when tailoring outfits for specific body types.
Weight Fluctuations: Those whose body types shift over time may want versatile wardrobe staples that can adapt to slight changes in size.
By recognizing your body type or blend, you can make more informed style choices that accentuate your best features and ensure a flattering, comfortable fit.
Dress Shirts for Each Body Type
For Ectomorphs (Slim Build)
Avoid overly baggy shirts that make you look smaller. You don’t want the shirt to swallow you whole! Make sure that the seams on the shoulder of your shirts are right at the edge of your shoulders, not over.
Opt for slim-fit or tailored shirts to give a more structured, flattering look.
Go for thicker fabrics or patterns like checks or stripes to add visual bulk.
Make sure to go in and get measured. knowing your neck, chest, and arm length help find that perfect fit!
For Mesomorphs (Athletic Build)
Emphasize your natural build without looking too tight. We don’t need to see each line and crease of each muscle.
Opt for fitted shirts with enough room in the chest and shoulders but taper at the waist to avoid a boxy look.
Consider classic or custom fits for a polished appearance.
Check out this shirt that feels good, won’t break the bank, and has a great fit! The Tie Bar has a great assortment of cost effective shirts that fit various body styles, especially athletic builds!
For Endomorphs (Stocky Build)
Avoid overly tight or overly loose shirts.
Choose structured shirts with a bit of stretch to accommodate broader shoulders and a thicker torso.
Look for vertical patterns or darker colors to create a slimming effect.
Our Pick: Jos A. Bank Traveler Traditional Fit Point Collar Dress Shirt
Jos. A. Bank comes in both regular and Big & Tall sizes making it the perfect place to find a shirt to fit all sort of sizes. They're shirts usually go on sale so they are also easily affordable!
T-shirts for Each Body Type
For Ectomorphs
Opt for slim-fit T-shirts to enhance your silhouette and avoid looking lost in fabric.
Thicker cotton materials or layered looks can help bulk up your appearance.
Our Pick: Old Navy's Crew-Neck T-Shirt
The essential black, slim fitting shirt from Old Navy won't only help extenuate your silhouette it can help you look bulkier than usual. and at less than $10 it is hard to pass up!
For Mesomorphs
Choose athletic-fit or tailored T-shirts to showcase your build without being too tight. Don’t let the space between buttons burst open. They should lay flat!
Avoid oversized T-shirts that hide your shape, but also beware of overly stretchy fabrics that might look too fitted. You don’t want the shirt to look painted on.
Our Pick: True Classic's All Black Short Sleeve Crew
$20 for a shirt?! Yeah... It is just harder to find shirts for those muscular guys. You want to show off that upside down triangle figure? Well, you got to shell out a few dollars more. I didn't think I would like these shirts as much as I did but here I am.
For Endomorphs
Choose T-shirts with structure—look for fabrics that maintain their shape and avoid anything too clingy.
Go for V-neck styles that elongate the neck and create a slimming visual effect.
Focus on neutral or darker colors to avoid adding visual weight.
Our Pick:
Our Pick: Carhartt Relaxed fit lightweight short-sleeve T-Shirt
Carhartt used to only be for guys who work hard for a living. Recently they have branched out and found a larger audience. Their tough and roomy clothes are perfect for a stocky guy. The relaxed fit will help give you a better fit in the arms. We know you want to show off how hard you work!
