Utilise Clothing To Make You Look Taller
Written by Menswear Style
in
Tips & Advice
on the
14th April 2025
Many men might find their height as a source of self-consciousness, especially when it feels like society often favours taller figures. But our perception of body shapes and sizes has since come a long way, and often, clothing is enough to balance proportions and create the desired looks we aim for.
It all comes down to the strategic wardrobe choices you make, and it is possible to make ones that will elongate your body and boost your confidence. After all, clothing isn’t just about style — it can be a useful tool that can improve how you perceive yourself and how others see you as well.
Read on to learn more about the right fits, cuts and colours, which can help any man feel his best.
Fit is Everything
The first step to creating an illusion of height in your appearance is the fit. Baggy clothes can overwhelm your frame, but overly tight ones can create unflattering bulges and draw attention to areas you might prefer to downplay.
When you wear well-fitted clothing, you create a smooth, streamlined silhouette that complements your natural shape. Tailored pieces, such as a well-fitted blazer or trousers, will flatter and elongate your body.
The key to height and confidence is to find clothes that hug your body just right — neither too loose nor too tight.
High-Waisted Trousers
These can be a game-changer for your appearance. The high-waisted trousers sit higher on the waist, in this way elongating the legs and making you appear taller and more proportionate. The higher rise creates a seamless line from the waist down, which visually extends the lower part of your body.
However, it is essential to choose the right rise for your body type. Men with shorter torsos may benefit from a mid-rise fit, while those with larger ones should opt for a higher rise to balance their natural body proportions.
Take the time to try different fits to find the perfect one that balances your overall silhouette. As the high-waisted fit dominated the past and has now come back in trend, we suggest you look for men’s vintage trousers and retro styles for a wider variety of fits.
Choose Vertical Lines and Patterns
It might sound scary initially, but playing with vertical lines and patterns can be one of the most effective ways to create the illusion of height. When viewing vertical stripes, the eye is naturally drawn upward, which immediately elongates the body and makes you appear taller for others.
Pinstripes are also an excellent classic choice if you prefer a more traditional style. Even subtle patterns, such as textured fabrics with a faint vertical weave, can be enough to create the desired effect.
You can incorporate vertical lines and patterns through shirts, trousers, or jackets. Whatever your personal preference is, you can find the right pieces for you to balance your appearance.
Monochromatic Outfits Are Your Friend
When you dress in one colour from head to toe, you create a continuous line that, again, draws the eye vertically, making you instantly appear taller. There aren’t any visual breaks that can illusory shorten the body.
To take things further, opt for darker shades such as navy, charcoal, or black, as these add depth and definition. Lighter tones or neutrals can also work very well for you if you prefer a fresher look.
No Excessive Layering
Despite it being trendy these days, excessive layering can disrupt your proportions and make you appear way shorter than you actually are. Keep it light and minimal to avoid bulkiness. With thick, heavy layers, you can overwhelm your frame, making it harder to define your natural shape.
Instead, make sure you keep a single layer or choose one well-fitted jacket over a shirt to keep the look clean and streamlined. Thin, lightweight fabrics are your friends if you want to keep your proportions balanced.
Avoid Short Jackets
Maybe you’ve heard that before, but the length of your jacket can affect the way your proportions are perceived. If you want to appear taller, jackets that fall around the hip or slightly below can help make your legs appear longer and give you a balanced frame.
However, a jacket that is short can cut off your body at an awkward place, as it shortens the torso and makes the legs appear shorter in comparison.
If you are a fan of blazers, look for fits that hit just below the hips and mid-thigh for a more flattering look.
Height & Confidence Come With the Right Clothing
The power of confidence is often hidden in the clothing choices we make. Pieces that fit us well, complement our features, and align with our personal style will help us find a sense of self-assurance that will radiate outward.
So, we encourage you to explore these tips with an open mind, enjoying the process of discovering what best complements your natural physique—without overthinking it.
