In 2020 we have the access to see people of different shapes and sizes being broadcast through campaigns or even just by having a lot of followers on Instagram. From the start of fashion being of bigger size was never highlighted. Most designers would make pieces that would make you appear smaller or making clothing only up to a L or XL.
Nowadays being true to yourself and being body positive has become mainstream and has put pressure on designers to make stylish and fashionable pieces for people of bigger size (Big & Tall or Plus Size), with plus size women being the focus. Being a bigger guy and a lover of fashion is very difficult. The range of stores for a bigger man to shop is very slim and actual brick and mortars are scarce. So I decided to make this post to give my Big & Tall audience some tips on how to shop for our body type.
Here are a few outfits that I have curated:
For this outfit I wanted to create some layers and dimension with my pieces. I like to do this so I can create a nice shape for my body and also stay warm without having to wear a big heavy coat.
I started with my base, Black Pants and a Black Turtleneck (both are from ASOS). From there I had to decide if I was going to go more streetwear or if I wanted to dress it up. I decided on streetwear because I was just walking around the city that day. I added my White Nike Airmax sneakers.
The hardest part of curating outfits for me is trying to make different outfits with simple pieces without looking too “basic”.
I added the White Button-up (ASOS) to have a longer layer. Now this Cropped Cheetah Print Jacket (ASOS) was a little D.I.Y project I did because I didnt like the length of the full jacket. I added the Green Puffer Jacket (Collusion x ASOS) because I wanted a pop of color and because it was cold in NY.
I stepped outside my comfort zone with this outfit. I’m not use to wearing loose pants and to be honest they were so comfortable!
I started with my Black Turtleneck (ASOS), which in the colder months has come in handy for layering. These Forest Green Pants (ASOS) has been collecting dust in my closet since last year. For my jacket I decided to do this little trick I found online which is just adding a utility vest on top of a suit jacket or duster and it makes it appear to be a totally different piece.
I am slowly trying to add color to my wardrobe but still sticking to my roots and keeping my base mostly black.
Last outfit but one of my favorite honestly. It may look simple but some thought was put into this look.
I started with these Black Leather Pants from ASOS because it was a little chilly and I wanted to stay warm. I also was just trying to be comfortable so I knew I wanted to put a hoodie on but I wanted to wear it different so I added my Extended White Button-up from ASOS. The Green Denim Jacket was to add another layer of warmth but also a subtle pop of color.
Now this bag is honestly my favorite find of 2020. I walked into a thrift store and the red COACH monogram print stood out and I ran and grabbed it. I don’t know if you be in love with a bag, but I sure am.
Now I also follow a few Big & Tall influencers via Instagram that I like to draw inspiration from when I cant really find something to wear or if I want to find another way to wear a piece I already have. Here are a two that I recommend you all follow:
SOOUIZZ (@soouizz)
CHRIS PARKER (@parkerxl)
Both of these guys hit both sides of the fashion spectrum that I tend to gravitate towards. Soouizz tends to lean more towards street-style urban wear which is my go to style. He likes pair pieces that most wouldn’t and it always seems to work.
Chris wears outfits that I lean towards when I want to make a statement or if I’m going out or to an event. His style is so elegant and still in your face. I swear he can wear any print or color.
Hopefully this post will encourage all my Big & Tall fellas to go out and elevate your style. There are places like ASOS or BOOHOO that can give you inexpensive statement pieces that you can pair with the typical Big & Tall clothing that is thrown at us.