Big and Tall Style Tips

7 Best Types of Shirts for Big & Tall Guys

By Richard Kirstein

7 Best Types of Shirts for Big & Tall Guys

 

Finding a great shirt when you wear sizes XL to 8XL can feel like an impossible task. Why? Most brands design for smaller sizes and just scale up the patterns, leaving you with shirts that are tight in the shoulders and too short in the torso. At Strongsize, we believe you deserve better. We design clothing specifically for a bigger frame. This guide will show you the best types of shirts that actually fit and feel great, covering the key details to look for when you shop.

In this guide, we'll explore the best types of shirts for XL to 8XL guys, highlighting the features that make them especially great for larger body types. From crewnecks to polos, long sleeves to short sleeves, we've got you covered.

 

 

1. Crewneck Tees: The Versatile Classic

Why Crewnecks Are Great

  • Timeless Style: Crewneck t-shirts have a simple, classic design that never goes out of fashion, making them a staple in any wardrobe. Their versatility allows them to be paired with jeans, shorts, or layered under jackets.
  • Comfortable Fit: The round neckline sits comfortably around the neck without feeling constrictive, making it ideal for all-day wear. This design suits various body types and is particularly flattering for big and tall men.
  • Layering Essential: Crewnecks serve as an excellent base layer in cooler weather, adding warmth without bulk. They can also be worn on their own during warmer months, offering a clean and casual look.

Features to Look For

  • Proper Length: Shirts that are too short can ride up and expose the midriff, which is uncomfortable and unflattering. Look for options with extended lengths to ensure full coverage, especially when reaching or bending.
  • Stretch Fabric: Materials like our Bounceback™ Stretch Cotton Jersey provide flexibility, allowing the shirt to move with you. This stretch also helps the shirt retain its shape after multiple wears and washes.
  • Tailored Fit: A well-designed crewneck should contour to your shoulders and chest while providing room in the midsection. This tailored approach avoids the boxy look often found in generic big sizes.

Strongsize Recommendations

 

 

2. V-Neck Tees: The Flattering Alternative

Why V-Necks Are Great

  • Elongates the Neck: The V-shaped neckline creates an illusion of a longer neck, which can be particularly flattering for bigger men. This design element can also help balance broader shoulders.
  • Versatile Style: V-neck tees can be easily dressed up with a blazer or kept casual with jeans. Their slightly dressier appearance compared to crewnecks makes them suitable for various occasions.

Features to Look For

  • Appropriate V Depth: A moderate V-neck is essential; too deep can be uncomfortable or inappropriate, while too shallow may not provide the desired effect. Look for a neckline that complements your proportions.
  • Quality Fabric: Soft, breathable materials ensure comfort throughout the day. High-quality fabrics also maintain their shape and color after washing, providing long-lasting wear.
  • Length Options: Similar to crewnecks, having longer lengths prevents the shirt from riding up. This is especially important for taller individuals or those who prefer extra coverage.

Strongsize Recommendations

 

 

3. Henley Shirts: Casual with a Twist

Why Henleys Are Great

  • Stylish Detail: Henleys feature a buttoned placket below the neckline, adding visual interest and a touch of sophistication to a casual shirt. This makes them stand out from standard tees.
  • Versatility: They can be worn alone for a relaxed look or layered under jackets and hoodies for added warmth and style. The adaptability makes them suitable for various settings, from casual outings to informal gatherings.
  • Comfortable Neckline: The unbuttoned placket can provide more room around the neck, enhancing comfort. This flexibility allows you to adjust the neckline according to your preference and the weather.

Features to Look For

  • Functional Buttons: Ensure the buttons are not just decorative but can be opened or closed to adjust ventilation and fit. This functionality adds to the shirt's versatility.
  • Soft Fabric: Henleys should be made from comfortable materials that feel good against the skin. Fabrics like cotton or cotton blends offer breathability and softness.
  • Tailored Sleeves: The sleeves should fit well around the arms without being too tight, providing a flattering silhouette. Proper sleeve length is also crucial to avoid the sleeves riding up.

Strongsize Recommendations

 

 

4. Polo Shirts: The Smart Casual Essential

Why Polos Are Great

  • Elevated Style: Polos bridge the gap between casual and formal wear, making them suitable for work, social events, and casual outings. Their collared design adds a touch of sophistication to any outfit.
  • Flattering Fit: The structured design of polos enhances the shoulders and chest, providing a more defined silhouette. This can boost confidence and create a polished appearance.
  • Breathable Fabric: Often made with breathable materials, polos are comfortable in warmer weather. The pique cotton or cotton blends commonly used help wick away moisture.

Features to Look For

  • Stretch Material: Fabrics with a bit of stretch offer greater comfort and flexibility, allowing for ease of movement throughout the day.
  • Proper Sleeve Length: The sleeves should hit around mid-bicep, which is flattering for most arm sizes. Sleeves that are too long or too short can throw off the proportions.
  • Length Options: Longer lengths ensure the polo stays tucked in if desired and provides better coverage when moving.

Strongsize Recommendations

 

 

5. Long Sleeve Tees: Year-Round Comfort

Why Long Sleeves Are Great

  • Versatility: Long sleeve tees can be worn alone during transitional seasons or layered under jackets and sweaters in colder weather. They provide more options in your wardrobe.
  • Coverage: They offer additional coverage, which can be more flattering and comfortable for some men. This can also protect your arms from sun exposure or cooler temperatures.

Features to Look For

  • Sleeve Length: The sleeves should extend to the wrist without being too long or too short. Proper sleeve length ensures comfort and a polished look.
  • Cuff Fit: Fitted cuffs prevent the sleeves from hanging loosely or getting in the way. This design detail also helps keep the sleeves in place when layering.
  • Breathable Fabric: Even though they provide more coverage, the fabric should be breathable to prevent overheating, especially when layered.

Strongsize Recommendations

 

 

6. The Oxford Button-Down: Your Wardrobe Workhorse

If you’re looking to build a versatile wardrobe, the Oxford button-down is non-negotiable. It’s one of the most reliable shirts a man can own, easily transitioning from a day at the office to a casual weekend outing. The magic is in the fabric—a special cotton weave that’s durable and substantial, yet softens beautifully over time. This isn’t a stiff, starchy dress shirt; it’s a comfortable staple that looks put-together without trying too hard. For big and tall guys, a well-fitting Oxford provides structure without being restrictive, making it a flattering choice for almost any occasion.

Why Oxfords Are Great

The Oxford shirt is the ultimate utility player. You can wear it with a suit and tie for a business-casual look, pair it with chinos for a smart weekend outfit, or even leave it untucked over jeans for a relaxed vibe. The button-down collar gives it a classic, grounded appearance that always feels appropriate. Because the fabric is a bit thicker than a standard dress shirt, it drapes well on a larger frame and resists wrinkling better throughout the day. It’s the kind of shirt that solves the "what should I wear?" dilemma instantly.

Features to Look For

The key to a great Oxford is the fit, especially around the collar and torso. The collar should have a soft, natural roll to it, not feel stiff or plastered down. It should frame your face comfortably without pinching your neck. For the body, look for a shirt that gives you enough room in the chest, shoulders, and stomach without looking like a tent. A common issue for bigger guys is a shirt that pulls at the buttons or is too short to stay tucked in. Prioritize styles with proper length and a cut that’s tailored for a larger physique.

7. Other Essential Button-Up Shirts

While the Oxford is a cornerstone, a well-rounded wardrobe includes a few other button-up styles for different settings and seasons. From crisp formal shirts to breezy casual options, having the right shirt on hand means you’re prepared for anything. The goal is to find pieces that not only fit your body but also match the occasion, ensuring you always look and feel your best. Let’s explore some other essential button-ups that every big and tall man should consider.

Formal and Business Shirts

The Crisp White Dress Shirt

Every man needs at least one high-quality white dress shirt. This is your go-to for the most formal events on your calendar, like weddings, important business meetings, or black-tie parties. Typically made from smooth, high-quality cotton like poplin or twill, these shirts have a more rigid structure than an Oxford. Many formal styles feature French cuffs, which fold back and are fastened with cufflinks, adding a touch of elegance. A well-fitted white dress shirt is a timeless piece that provides a clean, sharp foundation for a suit or tuxedo.

Casual Button-Up Styles

Linen and Chambray Shirts

When the temperature rises, linen and chambray shirts are your best friends. Linen is incredibly lightweight and breathable, making it the perfect choice for staying cool in hot, humid weather. Chambray looks similar to denim but is much lighter and softer, offering a great option for a smart-casual look. Both fabrics offer a relaxed, comfortable feel without sacrificing style, making them ideal for everything from beach vacations to backyard barbecues.

Flannel and Denim Shirts

For cooler weather, flannel and denim shirts provide warmth and rugged style. Flannel, known for its soft, brushed texture and classic plaid patterns, is perfect for layering over a tee on a crisp autumn day. A denim shirt offers a timeless, masculine look that pairs well with chinos or dark jeans (just be sure the washes are different). When choosing these styles, pay close attention to the fit—a good flannel or denim shirt should be comfortable and allow for movement, but not so baggy that it looks sloppy.

Short-Sleeve and Cuban Collar Shirts

A short-sleeve button-up is a summer staple, and the Cuban collar style takes it to another level. Characterized by its open, relaxed collar that lays flat, this shirt has a cool, retro vibe that’s perfect for warm weather. These shirts often come in bold prints and bright colors, making them a great way to inject some personality into your wardrobe. They are designed to be worn untucked and are best suited for casual settings like a vacation dinner or a weekend get-together with friends.

Key Features for Big and Tall Guys

1. Re-Engineered Fit

  • Broader Shoulders: Shirts designed with broader shoulders accommodate wider frames without pulling or feeling tight, enhancing comfort and appearance.
  • Relaxed Midsection: Additional room around the stomach area prevents the shirt from clinging, offering a more flattering silhouette and increased comfort.
  • Fitted Sleeves: Tailored sleeves that fit the arms well without being too tight or too loose create a balanced look, highlighting the arms in a positive way.
  • Length Options: Providing both Regular and Longer lengths ensures that men of varying heights and preferences can find a shirt that offers the right amount of coverage.

 

2. Premium Fabrics

  • Stretch Cotton: Fabrics like our Bounceback™ Stretch Cotton Jersey offer the softness of cotton with added stretch for mobility and comfort. This blend maintains its shape and resists sagging.
  • Breathability: Breathable materials wick moisture away from the body, keeping you cool and dry throughout the day, which is essential for comfort.
  • Durability: High-quality fabrics withstand frequent washing and wearing without fading or losing shape, offering long-lasting value.

 

Natural vs. Synthetic Fibers

When you're looking for a shirt that feels great and holds up, the type of fiber it's made from is a big deal. The two main categories are natural and synthetic. Natural fabrics, like cotton and linen, come from plants and are known for being breathable and comfortable—perfect for staying cool. On the other hand, synthetic fabrics like polyester are engineered for strength and durability, which means they can handle a lot of wear and tear without losing their shape. Each has its strengths, and understanding the difference helps you choose a shirt that meets your needs for both comfort and longevity.

Understanding Cotton Quality

Cotton is easily the most popular natural fabric for shirts, and for good reason. It’s comfortable, durable, and breathable, making it a fantastic choice for everyday wear, especially in warmer weather. But not all cotton is created equal. The quality can vary a lot, which affects how soft, smooth, and long-lasting a shirt is. High-quality options like Pima and combed ring-spun cotton have longer fibers, which results in a much softer and more durable fabric. That’s why we focus on using premium cotton in our shirts—it makes a noticeable difference in how the shirt feels against your skin and how well it holds up over time.

The Purpose of Fabric Blends

You'll often see shirts made from a blend of different fibers, and this is done for a very specific reason: to get the best of both worlds. Blending fabrics improves how they perform, feel, and look. For big and tall guys, one of the most important blends is cotton and spandex. This combination gives you the softness and breathability of cotton plus the stretch and flexibility of spandex, allowing the shirt to move with you without feeling restrictive. This is the idea behind our Bounceback™ Stretch Cotton Jersey, which is designed to provide a comfortable fit that retains its shape all day long.

Fabric Weight and Thread Count

Two other terms you might see are fabric weight and thread count, and they're key indicators of a shirt's quality. Fabric weight, measured in GSM (grams per square meter), tells you how thick the material is. A lightweight fabric will feel softer and more flexible, while a heavyweight fabric is more structured and durable. Thread count refers to how fine the threads are—a higher number usually means a softer, smoother fabric. Paying attention to these details can help you find a shirt that not only fits well but also has that substantial, high-quality feel you’re looking for.

3. Design Details

  • Curved Hemlines: A subtle curved hem adds style and helps the shirt drape better over the body, preventing it from riding up and exposing the midsection.
  • Quality Stitching: Reinforced seams and attention to stitching detail enhance the shirt's durability and overall look, ensuring it withstands daily wear.
  • Minimal Branding: Simple designs without excessive logos or graphics make the shirts versatile, suitable for various occasions, and easy to pair with other wardrobe items.

 

 

Tips for Choosing the Right Shirt

1. Know Your Measurements

  • Chest, Waist, and Hip: Use a measuring tape to get accurate measurements. This ensures you select the correct size and enjoy the intended fit of the shirt.
  • Refer to Size Guides: Each brand can vary in sizing, so consult our detailed Fit Guide to find your perfect match.

 

2. Consider the Occasion

  • Casual Wear: For relaxed settings, crewnecks and V-necks are ideal choices that offer comfort and style.
  • Smart Casual: Polos and Henleys elevate your look, making them suitable for work events, dinners, or casual Fridays.
  • Layering Needs: If you anticipate varying temperatures, consider long sleeves or thermal options that can be layered easily.

 

3. Pay Attention to Fabric

  • Stretch vs. Non-Stretch: Stretch fabrics provide greater comfort and accommodate movement, which is beneficial for all-day wear.
  • Seasonal Materials: Opt for lighter fabrics like cotton in the summer and heavier materials like thermal knits in the winter to stay comfortable year-round.

 

4. Understanding Collar Styles

It’s easy to overlook the collar, but this small detail has a huge impact on how a shirt looks on you. Think of it as the frame for your face—it can balance your proportions and pull your entire outfit together, which is especially important for men with a larger build. A well-proportioned collar complements broader shoulders and a wider neck, creating a clean, structured silhouette that looks sharp and intentional. Beyond fit, the collar also signals the formality of your shirt. Understanding the different types of collars helps you build a versatile wardrobe. For instance, a spread collar is a great choice for business settings as it accommodates a tie knot nicely, while a classic button-down collar offers a more relaxed vibe perfect for the weekend. Choosing the right one ensures you look appropriate and feel confident, no matter the occasion.

4. Don't Compromise on Length

  • Regular vs. Longer: Choose the length that suits your height and preference. Longer lengths provide extra coverage, which can be more comfortable and flattering for many men.

 

 

5. Build a Core Wardrobe

Creating a solid core wardrobe is one of the best things you can do to simplify your daily routine. It’s all about investing in a handful of high-quality, versatile staples that you can mix and match for any occasion. When your foundational pieces fit perfectly, getting dressed becomes effortless. This is especially true for big and tall guys, as having reliable go-tos means you never have to worry about a shirt being too short or too tight. It’s about building a collection of clothes that make you feel comfortable and confident every single day.

Your core wardrobe should be built around timeless essentials. Start with classic crewneck tees for their unmatched versatility—they work on their own or as a layering piece. Add a few polo shirts to handle smart-casual situations, as their structured collar instantly adds a bit of polish. Henleys offer a great middle ground, providing more visual interest than a standard tee. Finally, a few long-sleeve tees will carry you through transitional weather. The key is to find versions of these staples that are engineered for your frame, with premium stretch fabrics and enough length to provide complete coverage.

Why Choose Strongsize

At Strongsize, we specialize in creating clothing that fits and flatters big and tall men. Our commitment includes:

  • Perfect Big & Tall Fit: Unlike brands that simply scale up smaller sizes, we engineer our clothing from scratch to suit the proportions of larger body types, ensuring a better fit.
  • Premium Quality: We use high-quality fabrics and focus on craftsmanship to produce garments that look and feel great.
  • Comfort Stretch: Our fabrics are designed to move with you, providing comfort without sacrificing style.
  • Fair Prices: We believe premium clothing should be accessible, offering high-quality products without the premium price tag.
  • Unrivaled Fit: Our shirts are designed to contour your arms, shoulders, and chest while providing room in the stomach, creating a flattering silhouette.

 

 

Ready to Upgrade Your Wardrobe?

Finding the right shirt can transform not just your look but also your confidence. Explore our collection tailored specifically for XL to 8XL sizes.

Explore Our Top Picks

Frequently Asked Questions

How do I know if I need a 'Regular' or 'Longer' length shirt? A great rule of thumb is to consider your height and how you like to wear your shirts. If you're over 6'2" or find that most standard tees ride up when you raise your arms, our Longer length is probably the right choice for you. It provides that extra coverage to ensure your shirt stays put. If you're under 6'2" and prefer a classic fit that sits right at the hip, the Regular length should be a perfect fit.

I'm always worried about shirts shrinking. How do your fabrics hold up in the wash? That's a completely valid concern, especially when you've finally found a shirt that fits perfectly. We specifically chose our fabrics, like the Bounceback™ Stretch Cotton Jersey, to combat this exact problem. The blend of high-quality cotton and a bit of stretch helps the shirt maintain its size and shape wash after wash. Just follow the care instructions, and you won't have to worry about your favorite tee suddenly becoming too short or tight.

What's the best shirt style if I want to look a bit more put-together but still feel casual? If you're aiming for that sweet spot between a t-shirt and a dress shirt, I'd point you toward a polo or a henley. A polo shirt's collar instantly adds a touch of structure that makes you look more polished without feeling stuffy. A henley offers a similar effect with its buttoned placket, which adds a bit of visual interest and refinement to an otherwise simple shirt. Both are fantastic options for looking sharp on a casual Friday or a weekend outing.

A lot of big and tall shirts fit my shoulders but are way too baggy around my stomach. How is Strongsize different? This is one of the biggest frustrations we set out to solve. Most brands design a standard small or medium size and just make it wider and longer, which results in that baggy, tent-like fit. We do the opposite. We design our shirts specifically for a bigger frame from the very beginning. This means we build in more room through the chest and midsection while keeping the shoulders and sleeves tailored, creating a fit that follows your body's natural shape instead of hiding it.

What's the best fabric for staying cool and comfortable all day? For all-day comfort, especially in warmer weather, you can't go wrong with a high-quality cotton or a cotton-spandex blend. Natural fibers like cotton are incredibly breathable, which means they allow air to circulate and keep you from feeling overheated. When you add a touch of spandex, you get that same breathability plus the flexibility to move freely without the shirt feeling restrictive. It’s the ideal combination for a shirt that feels as good as it looks.

Key Takeaways

  • Focus on Fit, Not Just Size: A great shirt is designed for a bigger frame, not just scaled up. Look for intentional details like extended length, broader shoulders, and more room in the midsection to get a fit that actually flatters.
  • Let Fabric Do the Heavy Lifting: The right material makes all the difference. Prioritize high-quality fabrics with a bit of stretch for a shirt that moves with you, holds its shape, and feels comfortable all day.
  • Build a Foundation of Core Styles: Simplify your wardrobe by investing in a few versatile essentials. With a solid rotation of well-fitting crewnecks, polos, and button-downs, you'll have a reliable option for any occasion.

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