If you line up all the kids you know from tallest to shortest, only 1/3 of them, the ones in the middle, are considered average. That means that 1/3 of the people you know are short, and the other 1/3 are tall -- or to put it another way, 1/3 of everyone you know is average height, and the majority of people aren't! That may seem like really simple math, but if being non-average in size bothers you, it's comforting to know you are in good company.
This fall, the back to school styles that are in can really work to your advantage. Here are some ideas.
Stripes and Patterns
Horizontal stripes (the ones that go from side to side like the horizon) can help minimize your height, making you look shorter. Vertical stripes (the ones that go up and down like vertical blinds on a window) stretch out your look and make you appear taller. Since stripes are in style this season, especially with the preppy look or skater style, use them to your advantage. For tall guys who need to lose an inch or two, shirts with a pattern like checks can help as well. For guys who want to appear taller, steer clear of complicated or big patterns or even big accessories like watches, which make you appear smaller by comparison.
Fit
If you're on the short side, tight-fitting clothes can make you look taller. Pick up a pair of colored or dark blue skinny jeans and go for tighter-fitting shirts like those from Hollister, American Eagle and Abercrombie. And of course, the opposite is true for baggier pants and tall guys! But when it comes to up top, tall guys should avoid baggy or wide shirts and jackets, especially with shoulder pads or bulk that maks them appear even bigger.
Tall guys should never wear pants that are too short, as it looks like their legs are too long for their clothes. Socks shouldn't show beneath your jeans when you're standing straight. It's better for pants to be a little too long on tall guys than too short. For shorter guys, avoid pants that are baggy, as they look too big, and wear pants higher on your waist to make your legs appear longer.
In general when shopping for clothes, if you want to look good and find clothes that work well with your body type, clothes that fit are more important than a specific style. You can always buy plain clothes that look good on you -- like jeans and a t-shirt -- and accessorize with clothes that suit your personal style, whether you are goth, sporty, preppy, emo, slacker, rocker, skater or earthy.
Have Your Say
Are you tall, short or somewhere in between? What is your style dilemma and how do you overcome it? Have your say!
