Fit, Fashion & Availability, Episode 7 Season 1

In Episode 7 of the XL Tribe podcast, titled “Fit, Fashion & Availability,” I delve into the challenges that many big and tall men face, particularly around fashion, body image, and finding clothes that fit both in terms of size and style. Broadcasting from a casual, impromptu setting—at a restaurant, while eating—I present an authentic, relatable atmosphere.

Body Image Struggles and Self-Acceptance

The episode begins with a discussion about body image, one of the key struggles that many of the XL Tribesmen community members face. I address how societal pressures to look a certain way affect self-esteem and mental well-being. I encourage listeners to appreciate their bodies as they are, regardless of the extra weight society says they should lose. One of the most powerful messages from the episode is that weight loss will not automatically bring happiness, and in fact, chasing it as a sole means of happiness can often lead to greater disappointment.

Instead, I advocate for self-love and acceptance, encouraging my audience to practice daily affirmations. This technique involves looking in the mirror and consciously focusing on the positive attributes of your body. Whether it’s liking your hair, your smile, or some other feature, these positive affirmations help reprogram the internal narrative from one of criticism to one of appreciation. I emphasize that while weight loss can be a personal goal, it should not be pursued out of a belief that being thinner will lead to happiness. Happiness, I assert, comes from within, through a deep understanding of who you are and your purpose in life.

The Struggles of Finding Fashionable, Well-Fitting Clothes

A significant portion of the episode is dedicated to addressing another major concern for big and tall men: finding fashionable clothes that fit well. I share insights from my audience, who frequently report difficulties in finding clothing in their size. I note that many big and tall men wear shoe sizes 13 and above, pants sizes 42 and up, and shirts sized 2X or larger. Unfortunately, many stores fail to cater to these sizes, making shopping frustrating for larger men.

Affordable Big and Tall Fashion Options

In response to this widespread issue, I highlight two major retailers that offer solutions for the big and tall community: Target and Walmart. Both of these stores carry a decent selection of larger sizes in-store. Target, for example, stocks shoes up to size 15 and clothes up to 4X. I’ve seen pants up to size 50 in stores and have personally verified that these options are available. Similarly, Walmart carries up to size 6X in some stores, offering a wide range of affordable clothing, from $8 shorts to $20 dress pants.

What sets Target and Walmart apart, beyond just their availability of larger sizes, is their affordability. I emphasize that many XL Tribesmen are budget-conscious, and these two retailers offer stylish, well-fitting options that won’t break the bank. You can walk into either store and find an entire outfit for under $100, something that many higher-end stores can’t offer.

The Benefits and Limitations of DXL

While Target and Walmart provide affordable options, I also discuss DXL, a store dedicated exclusively to big and tall men. DXL offers more variety and specialized clothing, but there are two major drawbacks: style and price. Some XL Tribesmen feel that DXL’s offerings lack fashion-forward options, and many find the prices too high. However, I suggest that DXL is still worth considering, especially if you are looking to invest in a few high-quality pieces that fit well.

I advise my listeners to treat themselves occasionally, even if it means spending a bit more. Investing in a well-fitted wardrobe is, after all, an important aspect of feeling good about oneself. However, for those who are primarily concerned with affordability, Target and Walmart remain the go-to options.

A Call to Action

The episode wraps up with a challenge: I encourage listeners to visit their local Target or Walmart and search for clothing items that fit. I ask them to tag me in posts showing their finds so that I can share them with the XL Tribe community. This serves not only as motivation for listeners but also as a way to expand the dialogue around big and tall fashion.

Conclusion

In Episode 7 of the XL Tribe podcast, I provide valuable insights into the struggles that big and tall men face, from body image issues to the lack of clothing options in stores. With practical advice on how to cultivate self-love and a rundown of affordable retailers that cater to larger men, this episode is an essential listen for anyone navigating these challenges. My authenticity and relatable tone make this episode both engaging and empowering, leaving listeners with actionable steps to improve both their mindset and wardrobe.