Suits for short men: jacket length, sleeves and trouser break
A suit fits a short man when the jacket just covers the seat, the sleeves show a little shirt cuff, and the trousers have little or no break. Buy for the shoulders and chest, choose a Short length where offered, and have the sleeves and hems tailored.
Jacket length
The jacket should just cover the seat. Regular-length jackets often fall lower on men under 170 cm, which shortens the legs. Many suit makers offer a Short length alongside Regular and Long; it takes length off the body and sleeve while keeping the chest size.
Shoulders, chest and button stance
Buy for the shoulders: they are the hardest part to alter. The chest should close without pulling at the button. A slightly higher button stance and a single-breasted, two-button jacket keep the torso looking longer; a low, wide double-breasted cut does the opposite.
Sleeves and trousers
Jacket sleeves should end at the wrist bone, showing about 1 cm of shirt cuff. Trousers should have little or no break; with a mid rise, they also make the legs look longer. Both are routine alterations at any tailor.
Questions
What is the difference between a Short and Regular suit?
- A Short suit has the same chest size as the Regular with a shorter jacket body and sleeve, cut for men roughly under 170 cm.
Should short men wear slim-fit suits?
- A trim fit that follows the body without pulling looks best; excess fabric adds visual width. Fit the shoulders and chest first.