Men with broad shoulders often face a unique challenge when shopping for shirts: finding one that fits comfortably across the shoulders without being too tight in the chest or too baggy in the rest of the body. This guide will help you navigate the world of menswear and discover the best shirt styles and fits to flatter your broad shoulders and overall physique.
What Shirt Styles Are Best for Broad Shoulders?
The key is to balance your broad shoulders with the rest of your body. Certain styles inherently achieve this better than others.
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Classic Fit: While often overlooked, a well-tailored classic fit shirt can work wonders. Look for shirts that are cut generously across the shoulders without excessive fabric bunching elsewhere. The cut should accommodate your shoulder width without feeling restrictive. Paying attention to the shoulder seams is crucial—they should sit naturally at the edge of your shoulders, not pulling or bunching.
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Tailored Fit: Similar to classic fit, a tailored fit balances shoulder width with a more streamlined silhouette through the torso. This style provides a more polished appearance, suitable for both casual and formal settings.
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Athletic Fit: Designed with a more athletic build in mind, athletic fit shirts usually offer a better shoulder fit for broader shoulders. However, it’s vital to check the measurements to ensure it doesn't feel too constricting across the chest or too short in length.
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Avoid: Extremely slim-fit or skinny-fit shirts are generally not recommended. These styles often restrict movement and can emphasize the broadness of the shoulders in a way that isn't flattering.
What to Look for When Buying Shirts for Broad Shoulders?
Beyond the style, several other factors play a crucial role in finding the perfect shirt:
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Shoulder Seam Placement: This is paramount. The shoulder seams should align perfectly with the natural edge of your shoulders. Seams that sit too far out will make the shirt look baggy and ill-fitting. Seams that pull are too tight.
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Shoulder Width: Measure your shoulder width accurately before ordering online. Compare your measurement to the shirt’s size chart to avoid purchasing a shirt with shoulders too narrow or too wide.
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Fabric: Choose fabrics that drape well and offer some give. Natural fabrics like cotton or linen are generally more comfortable and forgiving than synthetic materials.
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Sleeve Length: Ensure the sleeve length is appropriate. Too short, and they look stubby; too long, and they look sloppy.
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Chest Measurement: Don't just focus on the shoulders; ensure the chest measurement provides enough room for comfort without excess fabric bunching.
How to Measure Yourself for the Perfect Fit?
Accurate measurements are crucial to avoid purchasing shirts that don't fit.
- Shoulder Width: Measure across your back from the outermost point of one shoulder to the outermost point of the other.
- Chest Measurement: Wrap the measuring tape around your chest at the widest point, keeping it level and snug but not tight.
- Sleeve Length: Measure from the outside of your shoulder, down the length of your arm to your wrist.
- Shirt Length: Measure from the base of your neck (where the collar sits) to the desired shirt length.
What About Different Necklines for Broad Shoulders?
Necklines can subtly influence the overall look.
- Spread Collars: Spread collars offer a sophisticated look and can balance broad shoulders effectively.
- Point Collars: While classic, point collars might emphasize the width of the shoulders depending on their point size and shirt fit. Choose a wider spread if you have broader shoulders.
- Button-Down Collars: These are versatile and generally work well with most shoulder widths.
Are there specific brands known for accommodating broad shoulders?
Many brands offer a wider range of sizes and fits to cater to different body types. It's recommended to check the size charts and reviews from other customers with similar builds to gauge fit and quality. You may want to start with brands known for larger sizes.
This guide provides a comprehensive understanding of selecting shirts tailored to men with broad shoulders. Remember, finding the right fit involves careful consideration of style, measurements, and fabric, ultimately leading to a well-proportioned and confident look.
