How Are Tall Clothes Different?

Building a comprehensive and cohesive wardrobe can feel overwhelming for any fashionista, but if you’re a man over 6’ 3” or a woman over 5’ 9” you’re met with the additional challenge of finding pieces that suit your tall frame. Tall people often find themselves defaulting to basics simply because “it’ll do” versus finding pieces they love and are excited to wear. Tall folks often settle on garments that are made longer without any other proportions taken into consideration or even size up to achieve the additional length and end up with poorly fitting pieces.

Below are some reasons why tall options are best suited for you and a breakdown of the difference between tall options, plus sizes and even big and tall.

Are Tall Sizes Just Longer?

A common misconception about tall clothing is that the pieces are just longer than standard garments. While the additional length is needed, the right details also make the piece wearable for years to come. A properly sized-graded tall garment takes into account all of your proportions, not just the length. For example, in a pair of cargo pants we not only add length to the inseam, but we would also design the side pockets to sit along the leg in the proper position. If only length was added, you would find that the pockets sat incorrectly on your body.

Tall Clothes for Men vs. Standard Sizes

At first glance, the difference between men’s tall clothing and standard size clothing is primarily in the length. It’s worth noting that standard sizing varies from brand to brand, but for the most part it’s garments designed with the “average” body type in mind. This usually conforms to standard heights and straight sizing and does not account for petite, tall or plus-size men.

Tall clothing is most comparable to standard-sizing but with proportional adjustments to suit tall men. This means that not only will the arm and leg lengths be longer, but well-designed tall clothes should also have longer torso measurements, as well as a longer rise (the pant measurement between the waist and crotch). At American Tall, we design with men between the heights of 6’3” and 7’1” in mind. Our “Tall” is for men 6’3” to 6’7” with the option of “Extra Tall” available for men 6’8” and up.

Tall Clothing vs. Big and Tall

If you’re a taller individual, many well-meaning people may direct you towards a big and tall retailer. It's important to note that being tall isn’t the same as being big and tall. Big and tall clothing is a combination of plus-sizing and tall clothing. It is designed for men of a larger and taller frame that need the additional length and width standard sizing doesn’t provide. 

Be sure to check your measurements, not only in height but in the chest and waist to determine which is the best option for you. At American Tall, our chest sizes range from 39” to 54”, while waist sizes go from 28” to 42”. This makes it easier to find the perfect size for your tall frame.

Tall Clothes for Women vs. Standard Sizes

Tall clothing for men has been more readily available for years, whereas tall women have traditionally had more of a challenge finding pieces that fit them properly. More often, tall women are forced to choose between plus sizes, which are larger in every measurement including chest and waist, and regular clothing, which doesn’t provide the torso, arm and leg lengths they need. At American Tall, we design with women between the heights of 5’9” to 6’6” in mind. Our “Tall” is for women 5’9” to 6’1”, with the option of “Extra Tall” available for women 6’2” and up.

Finding Better Options for Men’s and Women’s Clothing at American Tall

Eager to put your new knowledge of tall clothing styles into practice? Visit American Tall. All of our clothing is designed with a tall frame in mind, and we offer inclusive sizing for all of our men’s and women’s styles. This ensures that you can find stylish pieces without sacrificing comfort or fit.

Shop online today to find your new favorites.