For those with fuller figures, finding new clothes is far from simple. Whether you’re short and stocky or slim and seven-feet tall, the shopping sphere can often feel like a confusing and cold-shouldered place.
But times are changing. And while there’s always room for improvement, there are now more options than ever for the above-average-sized man. From suits to jeans and underwear, burly blokes can finally find clothing that fits.
This guide is going to focus on the best dress shirts for big guys—helping you to look the part regardless of your shape or the number on the scale. So, keep reading as I take you through the different types of shirt suitable for every kind of larger lad.
Key Takeaways
For this article, I pored over countless sites and dozens of reviews to find the cream of the crop. Beefcakes and beer bellies rejoice. I come with good news; the days of settling for shirts that feel like a straightjacket are officially over. But before you can kiss goodbye to bulging buttons forever, allow me to introduce the best dress shirts for big guys.
From wallet-friendly options like
Why it’s great: It doesn’t matter how big you are or how you like your coffee in the morning, all guys should own a plain white shirt. It’s the cornerstone of every well-rounded wardrobe and will serve as the perfect backdrop for a wide range of formal ensembles.This one from
How to wear it: The ultimate staple, you can wear it with just about anything. Pair it with a suit and tie for the most formal fit, or with slacks or dark, slim denim if you’re aiming for something slightly more relaxed.
Flaws but not dealbreakers: It’s quite pricey. But once you add up how many times you’ll be wearing it, you realize what a shrewd investment it’ll become.
Material: 100% Cotton | Sizes available: 36-46 | Colors available: 2 | Fit: Classic
Why it’s great: If you’re searching for proof that all shirts aren’t the same, look no further. As soon as you slip on this piece from Luca Faloni, you can feel the difference from its less-premium counterparts. Soft and seriously comfy, the beautiful textured cloth combines the warmth of cashmere with the breathability of cotton, making it the perfect year-round option. It comes in a slim or regular fit and goes up to size 4XL.
How to wear it: Dress it up with tailoring or keep it casual with chinos and smart sneakers. If you’re tucking it in, don’t forget to add a leather belt in a color that complements your choice of footwear.
Flaws but not dealbreakers: The unique fabric uses mélange yarn, giving the shirt a subtle three-dimensional effect that makes it feel slightly more casual than ultra-dressy.
Material: 85% Cotton, 15% Cashmere | Sizes available: XS-4XL | Colors available: 6 | Fit: Regular & Slim
Why it’s great: Not just a great shirt for big guys, Van Heusen’s design is ideal for messy eaters and clumsy claws—thanks to stain-shield technology that blocks stains before they start (simply rinse them with water and it’s like they were never there). Easy on the wallet and kind to curves, the stretchy fabric offers optimum movability while the relaxed armholes and sleeve openings give you the room you likely require.
How to wear it: If you’re looking to be the best dressed in the office, wear yours with smart slacks and formal shoes—adding a blazer or suit jacket for those important meetings and business trips.
Flaws but not dealbreakers: This one is better suited to larger men than long ones. If you’re tall and slim you’ll probably find it a bit too roomy.
Material: 67% Cotton, 32% Polyester, 1% Elastane | Sizes available: 18-22” Collar | Colors available: 15 | Fit: Big
Why it’s great: Not only is this shirt cut for bigger builds, it features vertical stripes that help to elongate your upper half and make you look slimmer. It’s made from a soft cotton-blend fabric and features a button-down collar for a smart yet care-free appearance.
How to wear it: Keep it casual with khakis and loafers or dress it up with a navy suit and smart leather shoes. If you’re wearing a tie, it’s essential to choose a design that provides a harmonious contrast to the stripes of the shirt. Opt for a solid-colored tie to play it safe or choose one with a different scale of pattern, such as small dots or a subtle geometric design.
Flaws but not dealbreakers: There’s not much stretch in the fabric, so it’s vital you get the fit right. To avoid a struggle, check your measurements before you commit.
Material: 85% Cotton, 15% Polyester | Sizes available: 14.5-18.5” Collar | Colors available: 6 | Fit: Regular
Why it’s great: Being taller than average does come with its fair share of benefits, but finding a shirt long enough is a real pain in the backside. Thankfully, Kenneth Cole has come up with a solution. Cut with extra room all around, this design comes with added length in the sleeve and body, so you don’t have to worry about it riding up. The spread collar looks great with or without a tie, while the light and breathable fabric ensures all-day comfort.
How to wear it: Tuck it into a pair of slacks and add a leather belt and complementing dress shoes for ultimate refinement. For a more relaxed outfit, try some slim-fitting chinos (navy would be my first choice) and smart sneakers.
Flaws but not dealbreakers: Personally, I’d prefer a pure cotton construction. However, the addition of polyester does give it some subtle stretch and wrinkle-free properties.
Material: 60% Cotton, 40% Polyester | Sizes available: 16.5-22” Collar | Colors available: 7 | Fit: Regular
Why it’s great: This non-iron shirt from Calvin Klein requires no steam (yes, really) and stretches for extra comfort. Designed to wick away moisture to help you feel cool and dry, it’s the ultimate four-seasons option that will smarten up any ensemble. The fit is tapered but not too tight and the cuffs can be adjusted to make more room.
How to wear it: Plain white shirts like this one are the perfect blank canvas. They pair well with just about any tie and will complement all kinds of tailoring. For a timeless look that’s suitable for work and the weekend, I’d suggest a navy suit and black Oxford shoes.
Flaws but not dealbreakers: The slim cut is more generous than some of the other options you may have already tried. Great if you want a flattering shape with room to move, but not ideal if you’re built like a beanpole.
Material: 96% Cotton, 4% Spandex | Sizes available: 14-18.5” Collar | Colors available: 10 | Fit: Slim
Why it’s great: Being big doesn’t mean you can’t find a shirt on a budget. Savile Row Company’s puppytooth version is not only affordable but large enough to flatter big shoulders, larger tummies, and love handles. If you’re tall (or short), there’s also the option to change the length of the sleeves—although it will incur an additional cost.
How to wear it: This big and tall dress shirt is the kind you’ll want to wear with a suit and tie or alone with slacks. You can also layer it underneath a fine knit sweater during the cold snap.
Flaws but not dealbreakers: If you’re slim but tall, you may want to opt for the brand’s slimmer fitting shirts. This one is cut larger for wider frames (or men who want their shirts to fit a little looser).
Material: 100% Cotton | Sizes available: 15-20” Collar | Colors available: 1 | Fit: Classic
Why it’s great: Made from fine grade merino wool, this lightweight, itch-free shirt is so smooth you’ll have strangers wanting to stroke it (c’mon guys, keep your distance). It’s antibacterial and moisture-wicking (perfect for summer) and never creases—so you can wear it while traveling and it’ll look as crisp as it did when you put it on. Think performance shirt but with a more premium feel.
How to wear it: The clue’s in the name. You can wear it all day, whether you’re heading into the office or grabbing coffee with friends. It’ll look great with tailoring but looks just as good with chinos and smart-casual footwear.
Flaws but not dealbreakers: Although it’s undoubtedly one of the best dress shirts for big guys, the sizing isn’t as generous as some of the other options on this list.
Material: 99% Merino wool, 1% Elastane | Sizes available: XS-XXL | Colors available: 2 | Fit: Standard
Buying Considerations for the Best Dress Shirts For Big Guys
Fit
When it comes to finding the best dress shirts for big guys, fit reigns supreme. Look for shirts with a generous cut in the chest, shoulders, and sleeves to ensure comfort without sacrificing style. Turn to brands with multiple size options, plus those that offer additional fits for athletic builds or big and tall men.
Fabric
Big guys deserve the luxury of comfortable fabrics just as much as anyone else. For ultimate satisfaction, choose big and tall dress shirts crafted from breathable materials like cotton or a cotton-blend. These will not only keep you cool, but you’ll remain comfortable throughout the day. It also pays to consider the weave of the fabric. A twill or broadcloth weave tends to be more forgiving and drapes well on larger frames.
Alterations
Ideally, your new shirt will fit like a dream. But if it doesn’t, don’t panic—there’s help out there. Find a good tailor who can make adjustments to fit your unique proportions. Whether it’s taking in the waist or adjusting the sleeve length, tailoring can completely transform your off-the-rack purchase.
Why You Should Trust Us
Up until my late teens, I had no problem finding clothes that fit. As a tall, slim, and slightly spotty young man, life was a sartorial breeze. Then, as if by magic, one morning I awoke and found my tees were riding so high they could be filed in the crop top category.
What followed was years of trying to find suitable dress shirts for big and tall guys for my abnormally long torso. It wasn’t easy, but I’m pleased to say I made it safely to the other side. Which is why I was able to put together this list of the best shirts for big guys. Using my triumphs and tribulations (plus heaps of customer reviews and experience as a fashion writer), here you’ll find the answers to all of your ill-fitting worries.
Final Verdict
Remember, gentlemen of ample proportions, it’s not about conforming to standards; the best dress shirts for big guys help us to celebrate just the way we are. And with accommodating options like Asket’s on hand, you’ll always have something to turn to when wanting to feel (and look) your very best. Don’t forget, if you’re still not totally happy with the fit, a quick trip to your local tailor will certainly do the trick.
FAQ
-
-
There is no one-size-fits-all for big guys, but shirts labeled as “athletic fit” or “big and tall” are a great place to start. These designs tend to cater to long torsos and broader shoulders or chests, providing ample room for comfort without compromising on style.
-
The best shirts for big guys are often made from cotton or a cotton-blend fabric (particularly those with spandex for stretch). Cotton offers breathability, ensuring comfort throughout the day, while its natural softness provides a luxurious feel against the skin.
-
