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Thursday, January 16, 2025

A Reader Question: Best preppy and traditional options for big and tall people?

 A reader question:

Dear Muffy,

Long time reader here; thank you for your fantastic blog and substack. I wanted to ask what preppy and traditional clothing options are available for big and tall people. I'm in the process of losing a few pounds, but I still have a large frame. I usually have had to resort to the LL Bean Natural fit khakis with the hidden comfort option, big and tall Brooks Brothers sport shirts (Now made with elastane, sadly), and Proper Cloth oxfords for a 100% cotton option. Are there any brands I am missing or guidance that can be given to other brands that service larger customers? Thank you for your time and your dedication to the classics.

Best Regards,

12 comments:

  1. Ralph Lauren has "big and tall" options. I've recently noticed L.L. Bean has more options as well. Bosie and Mercer Shirts have a few options as well; if you look over to the right on this blog, there are links to those companies.

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  2. As a semi-large guy (6'1" 223), I have found that J. Press and O'Connells dress shirts have a very full fit. My 17 x 34 shirts fit comfortably around my neck and my oversized waist. I don't have to size up the neck and endure the dreaded shoulder droop.

    Orvis sport shirts and the ultimate khakis usually have a full cut as well.

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  3. If it's not in a fairly full cut, it's probably not preppy anyway.

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  4. On a recommendation, I just ordered a pair (blue and white) of the Lands End Sail Rigger Oxfords. I understand that the cloth is the real deal, just cotton with no chemicals, and the collars look solid. With their post-Christmas sale, they were $35/ea, so might as well give them a shot. Their sizing comes as big as any of the major companies.

    If you want Made in the USA, Mercer does indeed make nice shirts, and they'll make them to whatever measurements you want.

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  5. 6'5'' 260lb here. Shits Mercer. Khakis O'Connells. Have gotten some items from LL Bean like t-shirts, polo shirts, and recent ragg sweater. Now to find some decent socks.

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    Replies
    1. Has Mercer diversified? LOL!

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    2. I hadn't noticed the typo Ken until I read your comment. Now that I have I can't stop laughing!

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    3. It’s also possible that Anonymous eats his Mercer OCBDs! ;)

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    4. Yes, hadn't thought of that lol !

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  6. Have you considered a duffle coat?

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  7. On a practical note, tall people with long legs can buy unfinished trousers that can be hemmed to the required length. For example, Cording's corduroy, moleskin and flannel trousers are unfinished with a length of 37 inches. They can have a straight hem up to 36 inches or turn-ups up to 34 inches. Some stores offer a MTO/MTM service for a small premium over RTW.

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