16 Tips to Dressing Yourself Thin

Buying big and tall men's clothing is simple as long as you know that what you buy depends on your body type. For instance, vertical stripes are a huge no-no if you are tall, and if you are big like me, horizontal stripes make us look like Saturn!

As far as quality and durability of the clothes you select, you have to go with names you know even if it means paying a bit more up front since better materials and craftsmanship should hold up better than lower quality lines. So, make sure you follow these 16 tips to buying big and tall men's clothing below and you too can look good and feel great!

1. Pick a fabric that doesn't cling to your skin either naturally or when you get over-heated. Once clothes become saturated with sweat they will begin to cling and enhance your figure. Natural fibers drape well over lumps and bumps and wool and stretch denim can hide minor flaws. Avoid shiny fabrics as well.

2. The right fit is essential! Many men buy based on a psychological size instead of their actual size. Too small and the material will cling, too big and you look like Shamu. Aim for a nice tailored look and if getting into the right size is that much of an issue, buy the size up and get your clothes altered.

3. KISS. Not the rock band, keep it simple stupid works well for the rotund! Pleats and huge pockets are a no-no and you should always try to accentuate the smallest points of your body.

4. Color. Dressing in a single color will give the slimming image you are after, but mixing dark and light tones will create separation and highlight your weak spots.

5. Get yourself a proper haircut that will flatter your face and is easy to maintain.

6. Wear the right underwear. Don't let your boxers get worn and saggy, you want quality under garments to enhance your shape, not detract from it.

7. The old staple. Don't wear any stripe that is horizontal or you will look like Saturn. Enough said!

8. If you wear a necktie, don't go for huge geo's or giant floral patterns as these will make you look fatter.

9. Repeat after me; I will not wear spread collar dress shirts I will not wear spread collar dress shirts.

10. Try and avoid elastic waistbands as they can increase bulges.

11. Get boot cut jeans instead of straight leg as the tapered look will make you look like a balloon on a string!

12. This rule should really be for anyone of any size, but especially heavy guys, no sleeveless tees gentlemen!

13. Always and I mean always go with a single breasted suit you John Gotti wannabe!

14. You will hear me say this a thousand times'black, navies and dark grey colors are our friends!

15. Another fashion rule for all of us. Stick to age appropriate clothing. Being 40 and wearing a San Antonio Spurs jersey and a sideways Yankees cap isn't going to make you look thinner, more like a douche!

16. Finally, wear what you like wearing. Your clothes should be fun as well as make you look good.

Robert is the founder of MensBigAndTallOutfitters.com, an online store and blog about men's big and tall clothing and fashion.