How to Find the Right Dress as a Man: Tips for the Perfect Fit

Hey there! I'll go ahead and assume you're a man. Or maybe you're the partner of a man who loves wearing dresses, or would like to. Either way, whether you're buying the dress for yourself or for someone else: you're on the hunt for the perfect dress, but you don't know where to start? No problem — I've got you. Let me walk you through how I pick dresses for myself. I know from personal experience as a man just how hard it can be to find the right dress. 🤔💭

But don't worry, there are a few things you need to pay attention to — and then it'll all fall into place, whether it's your neighbor or, more importantly, your new favorite dress.

Let's Start With Size

This is the first and most important step in the search for the perfect dress. Makes sense — it's ultimately the same story with shirts and trousers. You absolutely need to know your size before you buy. No idea how to figure that out? Here's my tip: head to a store and get measured. The staff there are experts in this and can tell you exactly which size you need. Just remember that sizing can vary from brand to brand, so get measured again each time you visit a new store.

Admittedly, that's a bit of a tall order — I know that's not something everyone feels comfortable doing. So here's an alternative for you. Buy two or three dress sizes of the same model, ideally online. But pay attention to how stretchy the fabric is. If the dress has a slightly "stretchy" material, you'll need to decide for yourself which size actually "fits" better. With close-fitting dresses made from rigid, non-elastic fabric, you'll immediately understand what I mean. Which brings us to the next point:

What Actually Fits Me?

Once you know your size, you need to make sure the dress actually fits well. That means it should be neither too tight nor too loose. If a dress is too tight in certain spots, it can look unflattering, and if it's too loose, it loses its charm. If you're unsure, take a look at my rundown of dress shapes and types. And keep in mind: even a perfectly fitting dress doesn't have to be comfortable. Sometimes you just have to suffer a little to look good! 😅👔

Know Your Body

Every man — and every woman, of course — is unique, with a different height and body shape. That means not every dress suits every man. A man with a slim build will look different in a fitted dress than a man with a stockier build. If you're tall and slim, a long, close-fitting dress might be right for you. If you're shorter and sturdier, you might want to choose a shorter, looser dress instead. Color and pattern can also play a role. If you're more of a minimalist type, go for solid-colored dresses. If you love bold clothing, patterned dresses might be more your thing. 🤵

Because one thing is certain: you have to feel good in it. Stepping out in public in a dress might already be a huge step for you as it is. So if the dress doesn't suit your type — or your body — you won't feel comfortable, and in the end the whole endeavor won't be fun, and you won't feel any joy wearing it. Use the world as your stage!

You Have All the Time in the World

So give yourself time! The most important thing when searching for the perfect dress is taking your time. Don't let sales staff pressure you, and don't buy the first dress you like. This happens a lot in department stores when you get styling advice on the spot. Don't let yourself get thrown off either, just because the person advising you might not be entirely comfortable with men wearing dresses. That's exactly why I generally recommend shopping online. That way, you avoid putting yourself — and the salesperson — in an awkward situation. Because you're doing this for yourself! Look at different options and try them on. Thanks to easy shipping and returns, you can order several models, each in different sizes, without any hassle. It's entirely possible you'll need to search across several stores or brands before you find the right dress. But trust me, it'll be worth it! 😎

And Why Should I Even Do This?

Well, I could turn that question right back around: why are you even reading this blog post? Hmm? Exactly — because you'd like to wear dresses, or you're simply interested in the topic. And because wearing dresses is simply an incredibly great feeling. That's why the search takes time, and not every man (or woman) finds THE perfect dress on the first try.

It's completely normal for men to feel unsure while searching for the perfect dress. They're often used to wearing traditional men's clothing like suits or jeans and have no experience with dresses. But there are plenty of good reasons why men should wear more dresses! Dresses are versatile and can be worn in all kinds of situations, from formal occasions like weddings and business meetings to casual events like barbecues and concerts. With the right dress, you can show your best side, wherever you happen to be.

Dresses are also often far more comfortable than traditional men's clothing. They're airy, lightweight, and allow for better air circulation, which is especially pleasant in summer. And by wearing dresses, men can express their personality and their individual style. With different colors, patterns, and cuts, every man can create his own look.

But wearing dresses goes beyond personal fashion. By wearing dresses, men can help dissolve gender boundaries and help create a world where everyone is free to wear what they want without being judged or mocked for it. Dresses aren't just for women. In many cultures, men have worn dress-like garments as traditional clothing for centuries. In today's society, men should have the right to honor and proudly represent their culture and traditions.

Do You Wear Dresses Yourself?

Of course! And I genuinely love it. As you can see on my blog, on social media, and elsewhere, I enjoy slipping into dresses just as much as I enjoy suits, shirts, polos, skirts, and heels. I'm happily married, and my wife is fully on board with all of it. And you know what? She even has a style she likes on me, and one she doesn't. Which means, in both classic men's fashion and — if I can put it this way — the women's side of things, she finds some things I wear prettier than others.

Which means, for you: what are you still waiting for? In my Shopping Guide, you'll find store recommendations for where I love to shop and which brands I prefer. But of course, in the end you'll have to figure out for yourself what suits you and what you like. I'm already wishing you a great time on your journey, and I'd love to read about your experiences!