Spring Fashion Essentials For Shorter Men

A Style Guide

May Contain Affiliate Links (What’s This?)

You know that first spring morning when mist rises from the puddles on the ground? The wind finally feels... well, not so cold! That last bit of leftover snow is finally melting (it’s probably brown, and, umm, yellow by now… ugh!) and disappearing into the ever-so-slightly warmer air. Uh-oh! Those New York City smells that have been hiding for the last six or so months are about to make their reappearance! All that’s left now are the April showers. Be patient, it’s coming…

See Also:  Leather Jacket Guide For Shorter Men

Spring is here, at least in name, and it’s almost time for that wardrobe transition. Here at The Lower View, we want to help you make that shift with accessories that are functional, fashionable, and—as we’ve covered in a few of our previous accessory pieces—proportionate. The goal? Accessories that work with your frame rather than overwhelm it, while still giving you a few conversation pieces that might have people asking where you got them. Gentlemen, let’s get to it — Spring Fashion Accessories for Shorter Men.

INTRODUCTION

Okay, none of you are spring chickens (sorry, couldn’t resist), and you should have a general sense of what items you’re going to read about here. As a brief bit of background, many of the spring accessories we use today have surprisingly long histories. Umbrellas have ancient roots as protection from the sun and rain, but they became increasingly popular as rain protection in Europe during the 18th century (still weird to see people popping open their umbrellas on sunny days when they emerge from subway entrances). The Wellington boot evolved from early-19th-century military and riding footwear before rubber transformed it into the waterproof rain boot we know today. Waterproof coats followed with Charles Macintosh's development of rubberized fabric in 1823, while sailors and fishermen relied on oilcloth hats to keep rain and sea spray at bay. And polarized sunglasses emerged in the 1930s, thanks to Edwin Land's pioneering work with polarizing technology, which helped reduce glare.

We can thank those early pioneers—the designers, manufacturers, and fashion houses that kept building on those ideas—for the remarkable variety of ways we now have to enhance an outfit. Accessories have become like the garnish on the main course of an ensemble. It’s all about the presentation, baby! With that, let’s explore some spring accessories and how we shorter men can put them to work.
 

ACCESSORIES AND ESSENTIALS TO HAVE

We originally titled this article, "Spring Fashion Accessories", but then thought, "how could we just limit ourselves to talking about accessories?!" We want to help you pair them and create outfits that would look dope this spring... So here is our categorized list of essentials, and how they'd work:
 

REFINED

UMBRELLAS

Like the credit card commercial says, “Don’t leave home without it” (especially in April!). Every man needs a full-sized umbrella in his accessory closet (for coverage), but at the same time, nothing comes in handier for a shorter gent than a compact one. For a more refined look, go for a stick umbrella (like this—preferably black or clear) and a compact telescoping mini-umbrella (like this one). Some are so small, they can fit in the water-bottle pocket of your average bookbag — super convenient!

One that I purchased even came with a convenient canvas pouch so you can store it in your bag after closing it from a hard rain without getting anything else in your bag drenched. Stick umbrellas will add a refined old-school polish to outfits featuring trench coats and longer leather peacoats. Check out the measurements so you don’t look like you’re schlepping around a ski-pole! As a general guideline, look for a stick umbrella that comes to around waist height when closed.

RAINBOOTS

I’m not going to lie. This is something I skimped out on when younger, but I wouldn’t be without a pair today. Stop ruining your shoes and sneakers! Stop setting yourself up to slip and fall. Have a pair of shoes or kicks in your office and put on some rainboots! Your feet will thank you, and so will the bottom of your pants. You don’t want to show up to the office looking like you wet yourself (sorry for the visual).

I will sound overly biased and traditional, but a minimalist style works best (like these). Black is your safest bet and will match every outfit imaginable. They’ll also look functional, which ideally, is what rainboots are supposed to be (Don’t sleep on other muted shades or earth tones to keep the masculine aesthetic – dark brown, olive, navy). No funny designs or shapes are needed unless you want to look like you’re on your way to first grade. Pay attention to the shape, the traction so you don’t slip, and opt for coverage that reaches at least to your calves (check these out). You know how brutal Manhattan puddles can be. One wrong step and you’re looking for a life jacket. This is the one area where I would say while proportion matters, how much you want to protect might matter a little more.
 

TRENCH COATS

Nothing says spring quite like a beige trench coat for an adult man. No, I’m not trying to make you look like Inspector Gadget, but if there’s anyone who would know a thing or two about accessories, it would be him (haha).

Trench coats and stick umbrellas go together like ice cream and the Mister Softee truck. These are spring staples. Be sure to be a stickler about sizing with your trench. For shorter men, the bottom of the coat generally shouldn't extend much below the knee.

Opt for lighter lining so you don’t burn up in the unpredictable spring weather (you can always layer up with a sweater or cardigan if the temperature drops a bit). Single-breasted varieties (like this one) look sleek, while double-breasted will give off a more corporate or formal feel. While I am promoting beige as the quintessential spring color, olive, an earthy tan, and navy can also work (though I personally reserve navy and darker earthy colors for trenches during the colder months – just a preference).

WATERPROOF HATS

This, I am embarrassed to say, is something I did not consider until my 30s. Today, for me at least, these are an absolute must and I would highly recommend them to you. I’m not talking about the Gilligan sailor hats with the strap either (look it up, if you don’t know what I’m talking about). Many more stylish options are available these days.

Keep your head dry! Even with a great umbrella, you can still get drenched in a heavy rain. I picked up a cool waterproof driver hat to go with my trench coat (like this) and absolutely adore it. Around the house, with a waterproof hat, I can still do yard work, or race down the street to run a quick errand (check out this one). These waterproof hats have been life savers. They may save yours — and whatever haircut you just left the barbershop with. Be sure to know your hat size before you begin your search.
 

BROWN SHOES

Okay, not an accessory (don’t come for me), but footwear. Still, footwear acts as an accessory to an outfit and helps complete the overall ensemble. Muted earthy tones work in the spring, and this is typically when I bring the brown shoes back out. With the snow disappearing, at least on sunny days, you have less to fear when keeping your shoes in good shape.

Don’t be afraid to break out your oxfords (like these), single and double monk straps (like these) and even boat shoes (like these) for those dress-casual and formal outfits. With the exception of the boat shoes, pick up some shoe polish (with leather shoes) and go to town! Let the sun hit the gloss created by the polish and light up every sidewalk paver you step on (you’re not quite Michael Jackson, but just imagine for a second). You’re not relegated to wearing winter boots and winterized sneakers when outside like you were just a few weeks ago.

LIGHTWEIGHT PANTS AND CHINOS

Okay, again not an accessory (stop rolling your eyes), but they’re worth mentioning. Slightly warmer weather warrants the gradual move to lighter fabrics for your pants so your legs don’t sweat when you dash back to the office or campus from that “extended lunch (*clears throat*... you know who you are).  

We’re not quite ready for the linen yet, but this is around the time when ditching wool and looking for cotton or cotton-polyester blends would make the most sense. Those poly blends will hold up against wrinkling a bit better for a more taut and structured look (forget about others looking with skepticism, you know the look you’d have on your own face if your chinos looked like an off-Broadway stage curtain). They’ll dry a little more quickly if you get caught in one of those April rains.

MEDIUM WEIGHT FEDORA HATS

I’m not talking about the lightweight straw hats you’d wear to that summer roof cocktail party. It might seem a bit counterintuitive to warming temperatures, but a medium-weight fedora (with or without the feather), made from a cotton-polyester blend (like this) or, at the heaviest, a breathable wool felt (like this), can also be a good bet.

A perfect complement to your trench and umbrella—or an outfit featuring a sports coat, jeans or chinos—a fedora will add a nice elegant and sophisticated touch to an otherwise well-put-together getup.

CASUAL

CANVAS BOMBERS

Nothing screams “Yankees or Mets home opener” than seeing one of those lightweight canvas bombers (olive green, tan or navy please). Canvas already has you firmly in casual territory, so don’t overdo it. Avoid patches or obtrusive logos and lettering.

Since bombers by nature have ribbed bottoms and those bottoms should generally be at or slightly below the waist, check sizing so you don’t look like you’re a walking canvas balloon. With just a little bit of padding under the lining, a nice bomber will keep the breeze out and some warmth in, but not enough to make you glisten.
 

LIGHT-COTTON BUTTON-DOWNS

I can write an entire article about button-down shirts (in fact, I have—see here). The button down is probably my favorite daily driver as it adds a touch of formality to any outfit. Like our other pointers here, look for cotton-polyester blends. The big box stores have plenty of lightweight options, many of which feel great to the touch, handle wrinkles well and have a bit of stretch to match the contour of your body (like this - perfect to show off that frame you’ve been working hard for).

Think outside of the box. Solids always work, but don’t fear patterns like plaid and pinstripes. (I’d save paisley prints for when the weather warms up a bit more).

Since we’re in casual territory, an untucked button down generally shouldn’t be too far below the waist—two to three inches at most. Though this might seem like overdoing it, don’t be afraid to visit a tailor if need be. Too baggy isn’t great, and neither is too tight. When in doubt, go in and try them on. If need be, alterations are your friend.  
 

POLARIZED SUNGLASSES

For a little bit of chic, a nice pair of polarized sunglasses will add a bit of “ah” to any ensemble. There isn’t much to say here. Look for “cool colors” – gray or silver lenses (like these) or icy blue lenses paired with silver frames will add a bit of polish to most casual outfits with a slight formal touch (think button-downs, dressier Henleys with denim or a nice cardigan-and-denim combo).

There are plenty of low-cost options, but a nice pair of Ray-Ban aviators will turn the trendiness dial all the way up. I can picture the New York City boss walk down Seventh Avenue just thinking about it (for New Yorkers, Seventh Avenue is also known as “Fashion Avenue”, which is wildly appropriate).
 

RAINCOAT

Raincoats aren’t necessarily casual, but they are a must if you want to keep your clothes looking great during typical rainy springs, because great looking clothes are typically dry (duh). Another item on the list of things I skimped on in my 20s… (because looking hip, err dumb, was more important), you absolutely need this in your closet. In this economy where money is tight, you should be more diligent about protecting your investment in clothing.

While you can find plenty of high-end options (like this – which are in a trench style), I want to spotlight really low-cost overcoat options that simply get the job done: keeping you and your clothes dry (like this). At this time of writing, you can find raincoats (overcoat or poncho style) for as little as $20-$30 on places like Amazon. Typically made from polyester, many of them come with tote-bags for storage.
 

WHITE SNEAKERS

Another footwear item. You know the saying, “no white after Labor Day” and “white after March 20^th”. Well, that’s not exactly the saying, and it’s not an actual rule, but many follow this practice. Realistically, white is hard to keep clean, which is why sunnier, warmer days are better suited to white footwear.  

Here in New York City, nothing says “spring casual” more than a fresh pair of white Uptowns (these - otherwise known as “Air Force Ones”). For those who want a more refined look, a pair of white low-top sneakers with a bit of gloss and a brown, gray or navy accent on the back will have you springing forward (pun intended) with denim or a pair of chinos. Pick up a bottle of sneaker cleaner to keep the dirt off and store your kicks away from windows to slow the yellowing. Lastly, if you’re going to wear white sneakers, refrain from spending too much time in the rapidly growing grass. You’ll thank me later.

My personal favorite right now is ordering white sneakers with gum-colored bottoms, because cleaning white soles every day eventually becomes exhausting.
 

DENIM JACKETS

If there’s any time to wear a denim jacket, it’s definitely the spring time. While heavier-weight denim jackets with thick padding exist, when most people think of denim jackets, they’re probably going to think of the lighter-weight kind.

A denim jacket does to formal and preppy outfits what a sports coat does to casual outfits—it dresses them down a bit. This is not to suggest that you won’t look nice in a denim jacket, but I absolutely would not wear this to a fancy dinner. Like their jean counterparts, you can find denim jackets in any blue-tinted wash (like this) from dark to the lightest blue (like this).  For us shorter men, I’d focus on button stance (if buttoned), a taut collar and tighter cuffs.

Go easy on too many designs on the outer shell, as they can bring all of the attention to your top half (this is unless you’re going for a more urban, overly-casual look). As the youth say today, “you’re doing too much” lol.
 

WATCHES WITH METAL BANDS

You don’t need a Rolex to flex. Just like with the polarized sunglasses we discussed above, a metal band, preferably stainless steel, will add a major kick to both casual and semi-formal outfits alike. Think of the glare of that spring late morning sun shining on that wrist band. It may sound corny, but the effect can make for some instant eye candy.

On the subject of affordability, while it may make horologists cringe, don’t shy away from lower end brands like Fossil (take a look at this) and Invicta (and this). Their selection is vast and for the one-off or two-off occasions when you need some cost-effective bling, these brands offer tons of chrome and faux gold options. Another tip: don’t be afraid to go for a larger-faced watch. On our shorter frames, it can make for quite the conversation piece and will stand out. This is one proportion rule I’d be willing to break (some rules are meant to be broken).
 

RELAXED FIT JEANS AND CHINOS

My personal preferences are going to be contrary to my usual recommendations, but with practicality being the main focus here, let your pelvic area breathe. I will forever be a fan of athletic skinny jeans. These cuts give enough breathing room in the crotch, but taper by the leg. Baggy jeans are waking up from their 90s slumber, and may be okay for the youth, but if you’re over 25, I’d shy away.

Relaxed fit is a nice compromise. Particularly in the latter half of this season, you’re not going to want to be moist (cringing? Yeah, me too). Let me clarify that the “athletic skinny” that I mentioned above isn’t actually “skinny”, but more of an in-between. Warmer weather favors lighter hues (like these), but darker washes can work year-round. For chinos, opt for cotton blends to avoid wrinkles (notice a theme here?). Dockers (like these) work. Express has my favorite pair of mid-tier chinos, their performance pants (this here). They provide a little bit of stretch and come in a variety of muted earthy tones and your typical black, navy and beige.

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BEST PLACES TO BUY SPRING FASHION ESSENTIALS FOR SHORTER MEN

For apparel, you’re going to want the experience of feeling items and trying them on. Do yourself a favor then and get out of the house and head to the major retail chains. Likewise, don’t think you’re relegated to using a mouse or tapping on your screen to find deals. With accessories for example, brick-and-mortar stores shine for those looking to go the budget route.

H&M is my first recommendation, especially if you head to one of their flagship locations. At their 34^th Street location in Midtown Manhattan, I found a pretty competitive collection of sunglasses, generic low-top sneakers, scarves, stick umbrellas and trenches. With the exception of the trench, most of these items were under $20 when I visited. Nice for the year of our lord 2026.

As mentioned, you’re not getting Fifth Avenue quality here (ironically, they actually have a store on Fifth Avenue), but for something quick to throw on, they can’t be beat. If you want a premium stick umbrella with a wooden handle (you know, the actual stick part?), British retailer London Undercover sells stick umbrellas in a variety of hues. At this time of writing, prices start at $189 — not exactly budget.

We already mentioned Fossil and Invicta for watches. Both brands have reduced their retail footprints (bummer), but you can find plenty of each in major department stores such as Macy’s. Don’t forget that if you have smaller wrists, you can always have some watch-band links removed.

For trenches and canvas bombers, you can visit Express, H&M and Zara, but you have to get in before the season is out. If you opt for online, Thursday Boot Company currently sells a high-quality canvas bomber called the “Union Bomber” (here) with weather-resistant finish for $168. Sizes go down to XS.  They have other styles and makes as well (like this). Prices vary.

For the white sneakers, I will assume you’ll know where to find Uptowns (just about any mall, sneaker department store, and if you’re in the “hood”, most boutiques). For premium dress low-tops, Cole Haan has a nice selection (like these), but they aren’t cheap. Thursday Boot Company has some of the most attractive dress sneakers I’ve ever seen. Their “Premier Low Top” sneakers (this) are made from hand-finished leather and feature sheepskin interior lining, long-lasting polyester laces and vachetta leather insoles. Their coffee-colored offering is magnifique! Their offerings go all the way down to a size 6.

Of course, you can always search on eBay and Amazon. We’ll say it for the billionth time—be sure to read reviews thoroughly and check whether what you’re looking runs true to size. Some items run big; some run the opposite.

 

OUTFIT IDEAS

THE BOARD ROOM

Laughably tried and true, you might wonder why we even dedicated space to this one. The classic beige trench (like this) over a made-to-measure two-piece suit and tie (like this), coffee-colored brown oxfords (like these) and a premium stick umbrella (like this). Whether you’re in the 1950s or schlepping around today (you’re obviously doing the latter), just the idea of this outfit will have you picturing yourself running down Lower Broadway in the rain to get to the office.

If James Cagney could rock a trench coat in the 1940s and Tom Hanks could pull one off in 1988 (the movie Big ring a bell?), there’s no reason why we couldn’t fast-forward another forty years and see you stealing the spotlight in one today.

THE SINGING IN THE RAIN

If it ain’t raining in April, then it’s probably snowing, and that’s a no-no. Anyone in the five boroughs (or the northeast for that matter) would have a fit if we didn’t have April showers (insert the expletives you’ll hear during the morning rush here). Be ready for the downpours.

Pick up a pair of black rainboots like these and then tuck the legs of dark-wash denim jeans (like these) right in them. Then, layer a charcoal cardigan over a black Henley. Protect the whole outfit with a sleek black raincoat (like this) and finally, add the conversation piece – a large-faced stainless steel watch (like this).

Casual, with a slight touch of formality due to the cardigan, but you know what? You’ll look good, and be dry (I’m sure you’ll still find a way to complain though).

THE BRONX BOMBER

Relax, it’s spring and flowers are getting ready to bloom. That’s how we came up with the title (no need to call the Department of Homeland Security). Spring is ripe for clean casual wear, and this outfit should tick the right boxes.

Pick up a green canvas bomber (like this), wear a gray hoodie underneath, and grab a pair of light-colored jeans (like this — a rip here and there is okay). Slip on a pair of your favorite premium white low-top sneakers (like these – gloss will enhance the look), and voila, you’re ready for a morning stroll. Now smile and make sure that haircut is still fresh. You never know who you’ll meet in your local travels (wink wink).

THE CLEAN CUT CASUAL

Casual doesn’t have to be unpresentable. This is a chance to dress up some denim. Pick up a dark-wash denim jacket with brown trim (like this), a white Henley (like this) and a crisp pair of dark tan chinos (like these).

Round out your outfit with a pair of glossy, coffee-colored low top sneakers (like these) and add a nice brown leather bookbag to complement your kicks. Add a pair of polarized glasses, preferably a gold frame with gold lenses—yes, this goes against what we said earlier, but we couldn’t resist. Now you’ll look so fresh, you’ll steal the bounce right out of bounce freshness (don’t hate me for that quip lol). Super clean, yet casual. Again, don’t forget about the fresh haircut.

BUT WAIT!

So what are our don’ts? Well, for this section, it’ll be less about fashion and more about preparation. Pay attention to the weather. You know how unpredictable spring is. Cold in the mornings, noticeably balmy in the afternoons and then boom—snow. Protect your clothing! These days, raincoats can be stored in tiny tote bags, so you can throw one in your pocket (literally). Rainboots are a must. Store a pair of your dress shoes for work in your office so you can cut down on commuter bulk.

Most importantly, budget, but move with a purpose. Spring accessories, especially budget items, fly out of stores, and before you know it, it’s see you next year! Luckily, umbrellas and sunglasses are a year-round thing.

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CONCLUSION

You’re probably tearing your hair out at the length of this article (or you might just be losing it, ha!). We covered a lot of ground here. Accessories make or break an outfit, of course, but spring’s unpredictability requires smart choices so both function and fashion can be at parity.  You don’t want to sweat, you don’t want to freeze, you don’t want to get wet and you want to keep your clothes looking as new as the day you bought them.

What are you spring fashion accessory go-tos? Are there items you wanted to see on our list? What suggestions do you have? We’d love to hear from you. Drop a comment in our forum and join the conversation. Remember, here at The Lower View, we want our shorter brethren to look and feel their best, but maybe you know something better! Thanks for reading.

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