Men’s dress is all about proportions. The relation between horizontal, vertical and diagonal lines of a man’s garments can greatly affect the way a man’s body appears to others. In fact, it can make or break any given ensemble. It is essential for men to recognize that different types of lines flatter different body types.
In general, horizontal lines serve to visually widen while diagonal and vertical lines generally serve to slim and heighten a man. This said, men of shorter stature fare well with vertical lines. Pin striped suits and bengal striped shirts are a few common examples. Also, to a shorter mans benefit is to have less of a break in his pants. This will serve to preserve the vertical line created by the crease in his pants which will visually elongate his legs, making him appear taller. This is not to say that a man of height should avoid vertical lines in his clothing, to the contrary actually, as they may take nothing away from his stature. However, he will find more ease in incorporating horizontal lines via check and plaid patterns into his wardrobe than a shorter or heftier man would. In fact, sometimes it is very beneficial for tall and slender man to wear these patterns, as it will help him give off a more well proportioned appearance. Men who are of more heft would find it beneficial to avoid plaids and checks with strong horizontal lines, as it will only make them look heftier. Men who are of an athletic or average build are fortunate because they can generally wear anything with ease, this natural advantage should be utilized whenever appropriate. Remember, Horizontal lines widen and vertical and diagonal lines heighten.
