The fashion industry is notoriously unforgiving for the larger man. Or at least, it used to be. Yes, runways are still populated by Amazonian ectomorphs, but on the high street, brands are waking up to the fact that the average man is getting bigger and no, he doesn’t want to be fobbed off by yet another black T-shirt.

The era of hiding a bigger body is over. It’s shameful that it took this long for people to realise that every shape is stylish with the right know-how. Still, at least it means that the plus size man now has options that let him embrace fashion. Here’s how to make the most of them.

Jacamo

5 Style Rules For Bigger Guys

It’s All About Fit

When carrying extra timber, the temptation is to either squeeze everything in with tight clothes or mask it by sizing up. Neither works. “That doesn’t hide your shape,” says Freddie Kemp from men’s styling service Thread. “It accentuates it.” Instead, look for clothes that fit and have some structure, which creates a flattering silhouette.

Use Colour Sparingly

Dark, plain colours are more flattering on bigger bodies, but that doesn’t mean you have to swerve bright shades completely. A colourful pocket square will lift the eye away from your waistline. This trick works for anything up top, from a mustard scarf to a red beanie.

Make Friends With A Tailor

Fashion brands make clothes to fit the everyman. Or, rather, their view of what the everyman looks like. The further you diverge from that vision, the harder it is to get dressed. A tailor is the bridge between vision and reality – they can give loose shirts shape, tight waistbands more room, and generally make your clothes fit you better. Which always makes them look better.

Think In Layers

If you don’t have the gym-honed body that fashion is so obsessed with, you can build your way to one with layering. You’re looking to create shape, not bulk, so opt for thin knits, chore jackets and overshirts. “They’re weighty enough not to cling,” says Kemp, “but also won’t turn you into the Michelin Man.”