Written by Ben Chuang

As someone who's got a skinny build, I often struggle when shopping for clothes. When trying on shirts, the sleeves are frequently loose and oversized, especially at the upper arms, and a bulky outline forms awkwardly around my torso and upper back. Fortunately, it's possible to find clothing brands that cater to skinny body types, and eliminate those awkward outfits by wearing properly fitting clothes. 

Intro to Fashion for Skinny Men

Skinny men may often feel overlooked in the world of fashion, but it doesn't have to be that way. In fact, with the right style choices, a slim build can be a great advantage in the fashion game.

The key is to approach fashion for skinny guys with a positive mindset and an understanding that there's no need to hide or downplay your frame. Instead, we can use fashion to highlight and complement the unique features of a slim frame. We also have a comprehensive guide to top brands for skinny guys here, as well as a list of best t-shirts for skinny guys, and dress shirts for tall skinny guys.

In this article, we'll be sharing some valuable tips for skinny guys who want to showcase their style and confidence without being held back by their body type. From choosing the right fit to layering and accessorizing, we'll cover all the essentials of dressing for a skinny frame and how to dress better, as well as best dress shirts for athletic men.

So whether you're looking to update your wardrobe or just need some inspiration for your next outfit, we've got you covered.

Choose Clothes That Compliment Your Body

When it comes to dressing for a skinny body, the right fit is key. Clothes that are too loose or too tight can make you look even skinnier, so it's important to choose clothes that fit you well and make you look more attractive. That being said, you also want to avoid anything too form-fitting, as it can emphasize your lack of curves or muscles. Instead, aim for a balanced and proportional slim fit look that highlights your strengths.

One of the easiest ways to achieve this is by paying attention to the cut and style of your clothes. For example, slim-fit shirts and relaxed jeans or pants can be a great option for skinny guys, as they provide a more fitted look without being too tight. Avoid skinny jeans that are way too restrictive and further accentuate your frame.

Our favorite button up shirts for skinny guys are from Nimble Made.

You may also want to consider tapered pants that are slimmer at the ankle, as they can create the illusion of a more muscular leg. Additionally, clothes with structured shoulders or padded blazers can add some bulk to your upper body, creating a more balanced silhouette.

The key is to experiment with different styles and find what works best for you. Don't be afraid to try new things and step out of your comfort zone. With the right clothing choices, you can feel confident and stylish, no matter what your body may look like. Learn more in our articles about how to dress like a man and how to dress more masculine.

Pay Attention To Fit

When it comes to dressing for a skinny body, the fit of your clothes is crucial. Clothes that are too loose or too tight can make you look even skinnier, so it's important to choose clothes that fit you just right. The good news is that there are plenty of options for skinny guys that are both comfortable and stylish.

When selecting clothing, it's important to pay attention to the details. For shirts, aim for a slim or tailored fit, with sleeves that hit just at the wrist.

Avoid shirts or polo shirts that are too baggy or long, as they can make you look even skinnier. For pants, choose slim-fit or tapered styles that hug your legs without being too tight. When it comes to shorts, aim for a length that hits just above the knee, as this can help elongate your legs.

It's important to strike a balance between fitted and oversized clothing. While you want casual wear clothes that flatter your body, you also don't want to go overboard and wear clothing that's too tight.

By paying attention to fit, you can create a sleek and polished look that complements your skinny frame.

Wear Slim Fit Shirts

Shirts are a crucial component of any outfit, and slim fit dress shirts or t shirt can be a great option. Slim fit shirts are designed to fit snugly against the body, providing a sleek and polished look. They are also a great way to add some definition and structure to your upper body.

 

When selecting slim fit shirts, it's important to pay attention to the details. Look for shirts that have a tapered waist, as this can help create a more flattering silhouette. Additionally, choose shirts or t shirts with sleeves that hit just at the wrist, as this can help elongate your arms. We have a separate guide on best shirts for skinny guys with long arms.

Check out Nimble Made's fit guide to see how they make shirts for skinny guys.

Slim fit shirts are a great way to showcase your style and confidence. By paying attention to the fit and details, you can create a flattering and fashionable look that highlights your unique features. Proper fit is also the first step in putting together an outfit that's visually appealing. 

Experiment with Patterns and Materials

One way to add some variety to your wardrobe is by experimenting with patterns and materials. Mixing and matching different textures and prints can be a great way to showcase your personal style and add some visual interest to your outfits.

When it comes to materials, consider opting for lightweight fabrics like cotton, linen, or silk. These materials are not only comfortable but can also provide a more relaxed and effortless look. These can be layered with more robust outerwear during winter months, such as wool sweaters, cardigans, or longer coats.

Don't be afraid to try out different textures, such as cable knit sweaters or tweed blazers. These materials can add some depth and dimension to your outfit while providing some warmth during colder months.

Best Clothing Materials for Skinny Guys:

• Lightweight cotton or linen

• Silk

• Merino wool

• Jersey knit

• Cashmere

As for patterns, vertical stripes can elongate your body and create the illusion of more height. Alternatively, small prints in lighter colors like polka dots or floral designs can add some visual interest without overwhelming your frame. When mixing patterns, remember to balance out busier prints with solid colors or simpler designs to avoid clashing.

Best Types of Patterns for Skinny Guy Style:

• Vertical stripes - This striped blue dress shirt is our favorite for skinny guys.

• Small prints (e.g., polka dots, floral designs) - This is favorite printed dress shirt from Nimble Made

• Herringbone or houndstooth

• Windowpane checks

• Solid colors (especially darker shades)

Overall, experimenting with patterns and materials can be a fun and creative way to showcase your style and enhance your fashion sense. Don't be afraid to step out of your comfort zone and try something new.

Add Dimension with Layers and Collars

Adding layers to your outfits can be a great way to create dimension and add some visual interest to your look. For slimmer men, layers can also provide some visual bulk and structure, making you look more muscular and filled out. Collared shirts can also be a great way to add some dimension to your outfits, especially when paired with the right accessories.

When layering, aim for a balanced look. Avoid wearing too many layers at once, as this can overwhelm your frame. Instead, start with a base layer such as a fitted t-shirt or slim-fit button-up.

From there, add a jacket or sweater, choosing styles that are tailored to your body. Jackets with structured shoulders, collared sweaters, or thick knit sweaters can add some bulk to your upper body, while a well-fitted sweater can provide some warmth and dimension. Layering with the right accessories, such as a thick scarf in the winter or an appropriate hat in the summer, can also add depth to your look.

Collared shirts can also be a great option for slimmer men. Buttoned-up collared shirts can help elongate your neck and create the illusion of a more proportionate upper body. Consider experimenting with different collar types, such as spread collars or button-down collars, to see what looks best on your frame. Don't be afraid to add some accessories such as a tie or bandana to add some visual interest to your outfit. For events with a higher level of formality, try wearing a pocket square or tie clip to accentuate your suit or tuxedo. 

Adding dimension to your layers and collared shirts can be a great way to enhance your fashion sense and create a more polished and put-together look. By choosing the right materials and accessories, you can create a style that complements your skinny frame and showcases your unique sense of fashion.

Be Confident

Your sense of style isn't just about the clothes you wear - it's also about the confidence you exude when you wear them. For skinny men, feeling confident in their fashion choices can be a challenge, as it's easy to feel self-conscious about how you look. However, with the right mindset and a few key strategies, you can rock any outfit with confidence.

First and foremost, it's important to embrace the way your body looks and appreciate its unique features. Rather than trying to hide or downplay your skinniness, aim to accentuate your best features and celebrate your individuality. Just look at Pete Davidson! He's not a big guy, but he certainly seems confident. Although you may not be a comedian like Pete Davidson, you can still learn to love and accept your body, as well as discover more confidence within yourself.

This can be as simple as wearing clothing that fits well and flatters you, or experimenting with styles and accessories that showcase your personality. For example, check out our guide to jeans for shorter men. 

Another key strategy for building confidence in your fashion choices is to focus on the things you like about yourself. Maybe you have great hair, a winning smile, or killer dance moves - whatever it is, use it to your advantage by incorporating it into your style.

This can help you feel more comfortable and confident in your own skin, which will naturally shine through in your fashion choices.

Or if you want to tackle the problem head on and try to improve your physical appearance, it's never a bad idea to start working out. Thin guys can still gain weight with the right training schedule and proper diet (including eliminating junk food if that's part of your habit). Thin men, as well as many women, can quickly reap the benefits of physical exercise with a simple strength train routine. 

Lastly, remember that fashion is all about having fun and expressing yourself. Don't be afraid to take risks and try new things, even if they're outside of your comfort zone. You might be surprised at how good you look and feel in something unexpected.

By embracing your unique sense of style and having confidence in your fashion choices, you'll exude a magnetic energy that's sure to turn heads.

 

Frequently Asked Questions About Skinny Men Fashion

Are skinny guys attractive?

Attractiveness is highly subjective and varies widely among individuals. Skinny guys can be very attractive to most women, depending on their confidence, personality, and how they carry themselves. Cultural standards and personal preferences play significant roles in determining what is considered attractive, and some people specifically prefer a leaner physique. Ultimately, factors such as kindness, intelligence, and sense of humor are often more impactful for most women on overall attractiveness than body type alone.

What does it mean when a man is skinny?

When a man is described as skinny, it typically means he has a slender or lean physique with relatively low body fat and muscle mass. This body type can be due to genetics, metabolism, lifestyle choices, or a combination of these factors. Being skinny doesn't necessarily indicate poor health; many skinny men are perfectly healthy and fit. It's important to consider overall well-being, including diet, exercise, and mental health, rather than focusing solely on body size.

What are the benefits of being a skinny guy?

Skinny people have several health benefits, including a lower risk of certain health issues such as heart disease and type 2 diabetes, which are often associated with obesity. Skinny individuals may also find it easier to participate in endurance sports and activities due to their lighter body weight. Additionally, fitting into a wide range of clothing styles can be more manageable, making fashion choices more diverse and accessible. Overall, maintaining a lean physique can contribute to improved mobility and a lower burden on joints and bones.

How can skinny guys look good?

Skinny guys can enhance their appearance by choosing clothing that fits well and complements their body type. Layering clothes can add dimension and depth, while well-fitted attire avoids the look of being swallowed by oversized garments. Incorporating strength training into their fitness routine can help build muscle mass and create a more defined shape. Confidence and good grooming habits also play crucial roles in overall attractiveness, as they highlight personal care and self-assuredness.