Phrases › Asking for Size › Ho le spalle larghe.

Ho le spalle larghe.

I have broad shoulders.

Pronunciation

'Spalle' — SPAL-le. Double 'l'.

When to use it

Use this to explain a fit challenge before trying things on. Giving staff this information upfront helps them select cuts that will work for your body type and saves time in the fitting room.

What it means

'Ho' (I have) + 'le spalle larghe' (broad shoulders). Body descriptions in Italian use 'avere' — 'ho le spalle' (I have the shoulders). This construction is natural and different from English where you might say 'my shoulders are broad'. 'Largo' means wide or broad.

Variations

Sono di corporatura robusta.

I have a sturdy build.

General description of a larger frame.

Ho i fianchi larghi.

I have wide hips.

Specific body area — hips.

Sono alta di vita.

I have a high waist.

Relevant for trousers and skirts.

Mini Dialogue

Cliente: Ho le spalle larghe — i vestiti di solito non mi entrano bene. Commessa: Capisco. Le consiglio una giacca con spalle strutturate — valorizza la sua silhouette. Cliente: Che taglia dovrei provare? Commessa: Con le sue spalle, direi la quarantotto.

Customer: I have broad shoulders — clothes usually don't fit me well. Assistant: I understand. I recommend a jacket with structured shoulders — it enhances your silhouette. Customer: What size should I try? Assistant: With your shoulders, I'd say a forty-eight.

Cultural Note

Italian fashion staff are often trained in personal styling and will genuinely try to find the right cut for your body type. Describing your body openly is not considered rude — it is practical information that helps them help you.

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Ho la vita sottile.

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