How to dress as a skinny guy: 15 style tips

Inspiromen selects each product you see, based on personal experience. A commission may be earned from affiliate links in the articles.

Skinny guys style tips
Picture of Niels
Niels

Feeling like nothing fits right when you’re on the skinnier side?

If you are a skinny guy trying to figure out how to dress so you look less skinny, then look no further. 

We know it can be tricky to find clothes that fit well and look good. And especially when you’ve got a thin body. 

In this article, we will show you exactly how to dress if you are a skinny guy to make your appearance less skinny.

Let’s get started!

What clothes are best for skinny guys?

Finding the perfect wardrobe as a skinny guy isn’t just about picking clothes off the rack; it’s about knowing what works for your body type.

The best clothes for skinny guys are those that create a balanced, proportionate look.

Opt for shirts that fit well around the arms and biceps, highlighting your physique subtly. Pair these with slim-fit jeans for a harmonious look.

Style tips for skinny guys

Read our tips on how to dress if you are skinny here below:

1. Right fit is key for skinny guys

Three man: one wearing oversized clothes, one skinny/slim fit clothes and one normal fitting clothes.

When considering how to dress if you are a skinny guy, it’s crucial to strike a balance in fit.

Skinny guys often fall into the trap of thinking oversized clothes will make them appear larger, but this usually backfires.

Super slim fits or very baggy fits will both have the same effect you would like to avoid: they will emphasize your skinniness. And therefore, it is best to just avoid them.

Choosing fitted clothes works wonders in enhancing your appearance.

2. Do not wear too slim or too baggy clothes

Two men in white t-shirts and one in black

As mentioned, avoid extremes in fit. So, you want to avoid huge or way too oversized T-shirts because this highlights even more that you are a skinny guy.

Instead, you should wear shirts that fit well on your arms and biceps that highlight the muscle definition you do have – even if it’s not so much. And next up: pair them with slim-fit jeans for a balanced look.

3. Avoid wearing too many accessories

A man wearing a watch on his wrist, captured in two pictures.

When it comes to accessorizing, skinny guys can benefit from a less-is-more approach. We therefore recommend you to NEVER wear too many accessories on one arm.

Instead, a simple, stylish watch or bracelet can make a statement without overdoing it. Remember, less is often more.

4. Layer up

A Skinny Man Wearing a Dress Shirt over a Beige Turtleneck

Embrace layering for added depth. Wear a short-sleeve shirt open over a fitted top rather than buttoned up.

Layering can be a game-changer in creating a stylish and more importantly – less skinny look.

For example, Wear a short-sleeve shirt open over a fitted top rather than buttoned up. This will add depth and reduce the emphasis on your slimness.

This is perfect for those looking for clothes that make you look less skinny.

5. Wear an undershirt

A tattooed man sitting on a bench, exuding a sense of calmness and contemplation.

Start wearing a tank top below your shirt, preferably in white. It will make you look more stylish and your torso will appear way thicker.  Learn how to style a tanktop here.

If you know how to style a tank top, then wear it underneath your shirt. We recommended wearing a white undershirt, as white makes you look less skinny. We will come back to this point later.

In general, layering up your fit by wearing an undershirt can significantly enhance your style and make your torso appear fuller.

6. Wear the right clothing items

For skinny guys, wear long-sleeved shirts and then roll up the sleeves to create some access bulk on your forearms.

And rather than wearing only a chunky turtleneck, try a thin turtleneck on a bomber jacket for example. In general, adding multiple layers to your outfit will add depth and make you bulkier.

7. Avoid V-necks

A skinny man in a white v-neck t-shirt
Image by Freepik

V-necks will only emphasize your skinny chest and are an absolute NO.

Instead, try a crew neck, as they are more flattering for most body types and don’t accentuate slimness.

Crew necks give a more balanced appearance to the upper body, making them an essential piece in the wardrobe of clothing for thin guys.

8. Choose neutral and clear colors

Color plays a significant role in how clothing can affect the appearance of body size.

Stay away from dark colors like black and dark grey because they make you look slimmer, also avoid wearing monochromatic outfits like all black.

Instead, go for neutral and bright colors to add a sense of dimension to your look.

9. Do not wear too big watches

Too big watches will make your arms look way skinnier, so they should be avoided at all costs if you are a skinny guy. Instead, choose a properly fitted watch that complements your wrist size without dominating it.

10. Choice of fabrics

A row of plaid shirts hanging on a rack, showcasing a variety of colors and patterns.
Image by Freepik

Go for denser fabrics like:

  • Wool
  • Denim
  • Corduroy
  • Flannel

These materials add substance to your outfits compared to lighter ones like cotton or linen.

11. Wear higher socks

A young man wearing a white t-shirt and black shorts with high socks.
Image by rawpixel.com on Freepik

Especially during summer, when you cannot avoid wearing shorts, at least depending on where you are from, socks can make a huge difference in making you look less skinny than you are.

Wearing high socks can help conceal skinny shins and give the illusion of fuller legs.

12. Wear white

White clothing can broaden your appearance, making you look larger than darker shades like black.

13. Wear bulky sneakers

A person sitting while wearing nike air jordan 4 with nike socks.

Bulky sneakers can add visual weight to your outfit. Consider styles like Nike Air Force 1s, New Balance 550, Nike Air Jordan 4s, and Nike Blazer Mid to achieve this effect. It is also important to know how to style Nike Air Force 1s for example.

14. Start wearing blazers, suit jackets, and sport coats

Blazers, suit jackets, and sports coats are your friends. They can make your shoulders look broader and add an element of classic style to your outfits.

15. Avoid striped clothes

Stripes, especially the horizontal kind, might not be the best choice if you’re skinny. They tend to make you look even thinner. Solid colors or other patterns are a better way to go for a look that suits you better.

Incorporating these style tips into your wardrobe can help you create a look that is both flattering and fashionable.

Remember, fashion is about feeling confident and comfortable in your choices, and with the right approach, any outfit can work for you.

By keeping these tips in mind, you can create an ensemble that not only suits your skinny frame but also enhances your style. Remember, fashion is about feeling confident and comfortable in your skin, and with the right choices, you can make any outfit work for you.

Common questions about skinny guys fashion

Is an oversized t-shirt good for skinny guys?

While oversized T-shirts are trendy, they can overwhelm a skinny frame. Instead of large, baggy tees, skinny guys should consider more fitted options that align closer to their body shape, without being too tight. This ensures the shirt complements your frame rather than obscuring it.

Do hoodies look good on skinny guys?

Hoodies can look good on skinny guys. The key is to select a hoodie that’s not too loose. A slightly baggy hoodie paired with well-fitted jeans strikes a comfortable balance, offering a stylish yet casual look.

Should skinny guys wear skinny jeans?

Skinny jeans can be a great choice for skinny guys, but it’s important to ensure they’re not too tight. The goal is to have jeans that conform to your shape and offer a streamlined silhouette. Pairing skinny jeans with a fitted shirt or a casual blazer can elevate your style significantly.

Should skinny guys wear skinny jeans?

No, skinny jeans might not always be the best choice for skinny guys. While they fit closely to the body and can offer a sleek profile, they also have the potential to overemphasize the slimness of the legs and overall frame.

Instead, a more balanced look can be achieved with slim-fit or straight-leg jeans, which provide a snug fit without clinging too tightly. These styles can flatter a skinny physique and avoid the extreme tightness that can come with skinny jeans.

Leave a Reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

Related Posts