Izod Big And Tall Shirts

Crafting a Well-Dressed Look with Stylish Izod Shirts

As a bigger guy, I know the struggle of finding shirts that properly fit my tall, broad frame. For years, I resigned myself to boxy suits and ill-fitting dress shirts that made me look sloppy. That all changed when I discovered Izod’s line of big and tall sizes. Now my closet is stocked with sharp Izod shirts that flatter my body type.

In this comprehensive guide, I’ll share everything I’ve learned about buying Izod big and tall shirts. We’ll cover sizing, fit, quality, styles, and where to find the best deals. If you need comfortable, durable dress shirts cut for taller, bigger men, you’ve come to the right place!

Key Characteristics of Izod Big and Tall Shirts

Before we dive into specifics, let’s overview what makes Izod stand out in big and tall sizing. After trying many brands, I’ve found Izod shirts offer these winning qualities:

• True big and tall sizing – They don’t just size up smaller shirts. Izod big and tall shirts are specifically patterned for larger frames.
• Flattering fit – The cut flatters fuller figures rather than draping like a tent. Tailored yet comfortable.
• Soft, durable fabrics – Izod shirts use high-quality 100% cotton, cotton blends and performance fabrics. They hold up well while feeling great against the skin.
• Breathable performance – Special moisture-wicking, no-wrinkle and stretch fabrics keep you cool and collected.
• Traditional styling – Crisp designs in solids, stripes, checks and more mean you can dress them up or down.
• Trusted name – With decades perfecting men’s shirts, Izod is a brand you can rely on.
• Affordable prices – Considering the quality, Izod shirts offer outstanding value. Sales make them a bargain.

Let’s explore those benefits further while offering tips for picking your perfect-fitting Izod big and tall shirts.

Demystifying Sizing and Fit

Fit is everything when it comes to looking and feeling your best in a dress shirt. Follow this fit and sizing guidance to get the outstanding look and comfort Izod shirts offer:

fabrics determine the fit

Izod big and tall shirts come in 100% cotton, cotton blends, and high-tech performance fabrics. Each fits a bit differently:

• 100% cotton offers a traditional, dressier fit. There’s some room to breathe but it’s more tailored than casual.
• Cotton blends have a hint of stretch for added mobility. The fit splits the difference between dressy and relaxed.
• Performance fabrics are the most athletic cut. They stretch generously and move with you. Great for active days.

Consider what occasions and activities you’ll wear the shirt for. That’ll help you choose the right fabric and fit. A cotton poplin or oxford works well for the office, while a performance or stretch fabric is perfect for weekends.

pay attention to measurements

Don’t rely solely on the size label – always measure yourself and compare to the shirt dimensions. Izod’s size chart is accurate, but following precise measurements instead of size names ensures the ideal fit. Some key dimensions:

Neck – Wrap a measuring tape at the base of your neck where a shirt collar sits. Round up to the nearest inch.

Chest – Measure under your arms around the fullest part of your chest.

Waist – Measure around your natural waistline just above your belly button.

Arm Length – Bend your elbow and measure from shoulder tip to wrist.

Compare your numbers to the size chart. Pay extra attention to the chest measurement – too small and the shirt will pull and gap, too big and it’ll look billowy. Use your waist measurement to help choose between regular or tailored fits.

Know the Difference Between Regular and Tailored Fits

Izod labels big and tall shirts with either “relaxed” or “tailored” fit. Here’s how they differ:

• Relaxed fit – Roomy through the chest and waist with longer shirt tails. Perfect if you prefer a casual, loose style.
• Tailored fit – Trimmer overall without being tight. Good option if you like a shirt close to the body.

In between sizes? Size up for a roomier relaxed fit or down for a trimmer tailored fit. For versatility, go with the relaxed fit and bring in the sides with military tucks or have it tailored.

Pay Attention to Arm Length

Izod labels their big and tall shirts by number and sleeve length, like “17 36/37.” The first two numbers are neck size. The second pair indicate sleeve length in inches.

As a taller guy, I need at least a 36” sleeve. 37” is even better, providing full coverage at the wrist. Measure your arm length and choose at least a 1″ longer sleeve. Too short and the cuffs will ride up your forearms – too long and you’ll need to tailor.

Try It On and Test Motion

To confirm fit, button up a test shirt and move your arms, bend, and stretch. At the shoulders, you want smooth fabric without pulling. Bend your elbows to check sleeve length. Does it strained at the buttons? Any pulling across the back or shoulders means sizing up.

The bottom hem should stay tucked when you lift arms overhead. If it becomes untucked, opt for a slimmer fit. Move around and make sure you can reach and move naturally without restriction.​

Dress Shirt Styles for Work and Play

Finding that perfect fit is just the first step to loving your Izod shirts. You also want to choose versatile styles that take you from workdays to weekends. With hundreds of Izod options, here are some favorite picks for big and tall guys:

solids and stripes

These traditional looks represent the bulk of Izod’s line. Crisp solids in white, blue and other tones look sharp under a suit or sport coat. Thick stripes and muted color stripes offer a subtle pattern that pairs well with suits and jeans alike. These easy colors make accessorizing simple.

checked and plaid patterns

Nothing says classic like a check or plaid. Izod’s buffalo check and tattersall check patterns offer great versatility and visual interest. Pair them with solid suits and ties. For weekends, wear them under a sweater or jacket with jeans. Checks and plaids work year-round.

short sleeve shirts

Don’t overlook Izod’s selection of big and tall short sleeve shirts. Tailored short sleeves are perfect when the weather heats up. Look for light, breathable fabrics like soft mesh knits and moisture-wicking materials. Izod’s short sleeve button-ups pair well with casual pants and shorts.

Linen and Cotton Blend

Light and breezy linen or linen blend shirts are perfect for hot, humid weather. They have the dress shirt structure but in lightweight open weaves that allow lots of airflow. Izod adds fresh seasonal colors and patterns each year.

Stretch and Performance

For active days, reach for Izod’s performance stretch fabrics. These moisture-wicking shirts have four-way stretch for full mobility. Yet they resists wrinkles, shrinking and pilling. Great to dress up while staying cool and comfortable.

Where to Buy Izod Big and Tall Shirts

Now for my tips on finding genuine Izod shirts at the best prices:

Shop Directly from Izod

For the complete selection of new arrivals, shop directly from Izod’s website. New big and tall dress shirts, polos, and more arrive each season. Sign up for their newsletter for exclusive discounts and early access to sales.

Check Department Stores

All the major department stores carry a selection of Izod shirts in big and tall sizes. Kohl’s, Macy’s, JCPenney and Dillard’s offer an in-person try on. You’ll save more at seasonal clearance sales.

Shop Online Outlets

Amazon, Walmart and Target have discounted Izod shirts online with free shipping and easy returns. Their selections are smaller but prices beat other retailers. Don’t forget to check the outlets like Sierra Trading Post as well.

Buy Vintage on eBay

If you love Izod’s vintage styling, shop eBay for new old stock and pre-owned shirts from past decades. Well-cared for Izod shirts from the 70s, 80s and 90s are built to last. Search “Izod tall,” filter by Size Type and buy from US sellers to thrift collectible pieces.

Find a Tailor You Trust

Getting the ideal tailored fit starts with finding an experienced tailor. Ask for recommendations from well-dressed friends. Meet with a few tailors, check reviews, and ask about their experience with big and tall shirts. Once you’ve found the perfect tailor, you can tweak any Izod shirt to fit you flawlessly.

Tailoring and Caring for Your New Izod Shirts

Investing in quality tailored Izod shirts means you’ll want them to last. Here are my top tips for proper care and maintenance:

Wash on Gentle and Hang Dry

To prevent shrinking and keep colors vibrant, I wash my Izod shirts on the gentle/cold setting. Unless heavily soiled, cold water does the job. After washing, immediately remove and hang dry. Laying flat to dry also works. Avoid high heat in washers and dryers.

Steam Instead of Ironing

For wrinkle-free Izod shirts without the shine of ironing, I rely on steam. A handheld steamer quickly smooths out wrinkles and refreshes shirts between washes. Or use the steam setting on your iron if you prefer traditional ironing.

Use Wooden Hangers

Upgrade your shirt hangers to wood instead of wire or plastic. The wide, rounded shape of wood hangers leaves no hanger marks on the shoulders. Padding minimizes wrinkles. Position the seams on the hanger evenly to keep shape.

Learn Basic Repairs

Resew loose buttons promptly so they don’t snag and tear fabric. For minor holes and tears, clear nail polish or fabric glue can provide a temporary fix. But for seam repairs and complex fixes, take it to your tailor. Paying for quality repairs will extend the life of your favorite Izod shirts.

Store Properly Between Wears

Letting shirts wrinkle and pile on the floor ruins their shape. After drying, button shirts up and store folded or on quality hangers. Use closet organizer to protect them from other items. And consider special shirt folder boards to minimize creasing in storage.

Mixing and Matching Izod Shirts for Work and Play

A well-rounded wardrobe starts with versatile base pieces that blend seamlessly. Here are ideas to mix and match your Izod shirts for any occasion:

Dress Shirts for the Office

A classic solid or subtly striped Izod dress shirt projects professional polish at the office. Pair with suits in navy, black or gray for timeless style. Add a complementary tie and leather dress shoes to complete the look. Pop an Izod pocket tee under a blazer for a modern touch.

Business Casual Combinations

For more casual offices, try an open-collar Izod dress shirt with flat front chinos. Roll long sleeves above the elbows. Swap in dark wash jeans on Fridays. During warmer months, break out Izod’s breathable short sleeve button-ups.

Weekend Wear

Off the clock, keep it casual with an Izod polo or short sleeve button-up. Contrast Izod’s preppy patterns and colors with worn-in jeans or khakis. Finish with comfortable sneakers or loafers. Try layering an Izod flannel or buffalo check shirt over a t-shirt when cooler weather returns.

Special Occasion Style

An elegant Izod dress shirt brings together dressy looks. Pop the collar and slip on a slim tie, or go tieless for a relaxed vibe. Pair an Izod solid or subtly checked shirt with suits, sports coats and dress pants in rich hues like navy and charcoal. Shined dress shoes complete the sophisticated style.

Why Izod Big and Tall Shirts Are Worth the Investment

If you’re debating trying Izod or want to convince yourself the cost is warranted, these advantages make them a wise investment:

Timeless Style

Izod defined classic American style decades ago. Their heritage designs stay in fashion year after year. The right fit flatters your frame rather than quickly going out of style.

Built to Last

Made from quality natural materials, Izod shirts hold their shape and colors through years of wear and washing when cared for properly. Buying a few Izod shirts saves money over cheaper shirts that fade, rip and tear quickly.

Feel-Good Fabrics

Izod shirts feel broken-in soft right away thanks to pre-washed cottons and perfect stitching. The material against your skin makes a difference you’ll notice.

Stretch for Comfort

Innovative stretch-woven fabrics and athletic cuts provide exceptional ease of movement. They move with you without restrictive pulling and tugging.

Wrinkle-Free Performance

No-iron, no-wrinkle finish treatments on many Izod styles keep you looking crisp even on the go. No need to worry about getting rumpled.

Trade Up Your Wardrobe

Elevate your style with versatile Izod shirts perfect for work or weekends. Compared to off-the rack shirts, you’ll look sharper and pulled together in Izod’s true big and tall fit.

Finding shirts to fit tall, broad frames used to seem impossible. But Izod solved that problem with an extensive big and tall line meticulously crafted for our bodies. Follow this guide and I guarantee you’ll discover the perfect tailored Izod shirts for looking and feeling your best. Whether it’s refining your business casual style or streamlining your weekend wardrobe, Izod shirts are an investment that will serve you for years to come.