In working in the men’s clothing industry and as a keen observer I’ve noticed that some men’s suits don’t fit them properly.  You’ve got the “Big Barney” look, that is, a big man wearing a purple suit that is so loud that one can’t help but compare him to the character that kids love.  Then you have the brother that’s vertically challenged like Spike Lee wearing an 8-button double breasted suit that looks like it’s his little brother’s overcoat.  Then there’s the short, portly brother that looks like the “grape man” character in the “Fruit of the Loom” commercial with lumps everywhere due to the tightness of the suit.

In consideration of the fit of the suit, the ideal build is for one to be tall, with broad shoulders and a slim waist.  Now we know that’s not reality for most men but that’s the working model for the discussion for looking your best.  Therefore, whether you’re tall like Magic Johnson, short like Prince or portly like Cedric the Entertainer, there are some guidelines to be followed that will enable you to look your best.  By the way, I highly recommend that if you don’t have a personal tailor you consider getting one.  My tailor is a Man of Color, Robby Brookins.  He is the best in the business with many years of experience.  The name of the shop is Robby’s Quality Alterations and it’s in Wyoming.  He may be reached at 513-948-1277.

Please review consider the general guidelines that follow.

Tall and thin:

Do: wear 3-button single breasted suits;                               Do not: wear tight suits that
consider suits with shoulder pads to build                            accentuate your thin limbs
up the appearance of bulk in your shoulders

Big and tall:

Do: wear suit pants with cuffs, navy suits                                          Do not: wear suits with large patterns or                                                                                                                loud