Open Access Shirts: Capes With Armholes

It wouldn't be too much of a stretch to say that for the past century, the biggest fashion dilemma overweight men have faced is the struggle to downplay the size and shape of their breasts. You don't have to look hard at all to see the various ways that men have attempted to mask their cones, but one gimmick, for whatever asinine reason, has stood the test of time: the open access shirt.

Most often worn over a t-shirt, an open access shirt is simply defined as a button down shirt worn with none of the buttons fastened, or as many fashionistas amicably refer to it, the cape with armholes. Simply put, there are few abominations that have had a further reaching recourse in the world of Fatshion. Not only does it produce an incredibly unkept appearance, but the loose, bedspread-like flow can make overweight people look five to ten percent heavier than they really are. Couple this with the fact that the open access look is incredibly dated, and you have a recipe for disaster.

For a cleaner, more modern look, purchase button downs that actually fit when buttoned, and wear them untucked with only the top button undone. If the drapery effect is a potential problem, don't forget to purchase tall sizes. When put with a securely fitting undershirt and a pair of loose boot cut jeans, the effect can be awe inspiring. To make this look more casual, pair it with a pair of fashion forward tennis shoes, or for a slightly more polished look, wear this with dress shoes and a blazer.

Tell your arm-holed cape to pull a Superman and go flying off a tall building, and take comfort in the fact that you'll never be flying with it again.