fashion tips for skinny guys...

I'll let you in on a secret: For skinny guys, finding the right clothes to wear is like working for Miranda Priestley. It is so hard that it might just kill you. No kidding.

It is surprising that even in a city like Manila, where almost half of the populace is small-framed, there is simply not enough places where a stylish skinny guy can buy tasteful clothes to wear. Almost non-existent, I dare say.

You see, if there is one style rule a skinny guy should adapt, it should be “NEVER wear anything that is LOOSE.” Not unless you want to look like a walking hanger, then by all means go. If not, then I strongly suggest that you take it from Hedi Slimane and start wearing it tight. However, if buying Dior Homme is way beyond your budget, then all you need is a little dose of creativity and resourcefulness.

Here are some tips:

1. Alter-ego. Treat your clothes to a makeover and have them altered to your own specifications. You want it to appear as if it was custom-made so be sure to let a professional do it. Try Alterations Plus or Fit Right (in Glorietta). Or even your friendly neighborhood modista.

2. Extra Small Challenge. For tees, buy 'XS'. But I'm warning you, though, it is really quite a challenge to find them. Most stores only carry 'S' as their smallest size, and for some, 'S' is simply still too big. I have probably scoured hundreds of stores to find that perfect 'S' and, so far, only Folded & Hung and Oxygen carry small-sized tees and collared shirts that passes my standards. And would you believe that they even have XXS size! Amazing.

3. Take it from the girls. It is an envious fact that women have more retail options than men. So why not start buying from the ladies' department? Look for tees, shirts, and jeans that look unisex enough to be worn by a guy. If cross-dressing is your thing, then that is a different story. If you're too shy to buy women's clothes yourself, then just pretend you're buying it as a gift or, better yet, bring a girl friend or even your sister!

So sashay down the street and make the world your runway!