Ash & Erie Review: Clothes for Shorter Guys (2022 Update)

In this Ash & Erie review, I’ll try on their jeans, shirts, sweaters and outerwear to see if they’re worth your hard-earned money.

Ash & Erie is one of a handful of brands that makes clothes for shorter guys.

Based in Detroit, MI and founded in 2015, the brand received some notoriety after getting a deal with Mark Cuban on Season 9 of NBC’s Shark Tank back in 2017.

Ash & Erie launched with button up shirts, but they now carry an expanded line of clothes made specifically for short men, including:

• Casual button ups
• Dress shirts
• Jeans
• T-shirts
• Polo shirts
• Henleys
• Sweaters
• Outerwear
• Activewear

If you’ve been following The Modest Man for a while, you may remember seeing Ash & Erie shirts and jeans on the blog a while back.

To give you an updated take on the brand, I decided to try on a few pieces from their current lineup.

I’ll show you how everything fits on me so you can decide if you want to try Ash & Erie clothes for yourself.

My Build

For reference, I’m 5’6” in shoes and about 125 lbs after dinner. I have a 35” chest and almost always order XS tops.

My off-the-rack suit jacket size would be 34S, and my ideal pant size is usually 28×28.

What I’ve Tried:

Here’s everything I’ve tried on from Ash & Erie (so far):

• Everyday Shirt, Blue Oxford, XS/Slim
• Flannel Shirt, Sheffield, XS/Standard
• Quarter Zip Sweater, Charcoal, XS
• Quarter Zip Sweatshirt, Burgundy, XS
• Jeans, Midtown Wash, 29×27
• Henley, Heather Charcoal, XS
• V-Neck Tee, Heather Ash Grey, XS
• Long Sleeve Tee, XS, Forest Green
• Daily Polo, Navy, XS
• Short Sleeve Linen, Basin Blue, XS/Slim
• Chino Pants, Grey, 29×27
• Chino Shorts, Smoke Grey, 28
• Winter Parka, Black, XS
• Bomber Jacket, Blue, XS
• Knit Sweater, Navy, XS
• Overshirt, Blue, XS
• Denim Chore Jacket, XS
• Long Sleeve Tee, Heather Navy, XS
• Tech Polo, Red, XS
• Pullover Hoodie, Charcoal, XS
• Terry Joggers, Charcoal, XS/25-27
• Tech Shorts, Charcoal, XS
• Harrington Jacket, Tan, XS
• Denim Jacket, XS
• Peacoat, Black, XS
• Down Jacket, Black, XS
• Puffer Vest, Black, XS

Let’s look at each item in closer detail…

Ash & Erie Everyday Shirt

This is the brand’s original product and one of their best sellers. It’s a casual button up that can be worn tucked in or untucked.

This style is available in plenty of different fabrics, but I decided to go with a classic oxford cotton button down (OCBD) in light blue.

I chose an XS in slim fit, their smallest and slimmest size available, and it fits really well.

These shirts have what I would call a “hybrid hem” that can be worn tucked in or untucked.

The chest and stomach are definitely slim. At 125 pounds soaking wet, I wouldn’t want to go any slimmer, but I’m very happy with this cut.

The sleeve length is great too. The only thing I would change is the cuffs. They’re a bit wide when buttoned, and I think a double button cuff would provide more flexibility (especially for guys with slim wrists).

Otherwise, I have no complaints. The oxford cotton feels sturdy and durable, and I expect this shirt to hold its shape for a long time.

Ash & Erie Flannel Shirt

Since the Oxford was a bit snug, I wanted to try an XS Standard fit button up from Ash & Erie. Enter this flannel shirt:

The standard fit actually works better for me. The length is the same, but there’s a little more room in the chest and torso.

For a standard fit shirt, this is still pretty trim. So if you’re in between sizes, you should probably size up.

The flannel fabric feels nice and soft, and the design is pleasant, if not a bit safe.

My only gripe is the collar: I wish it had a button down collar or collar stay slots to avoid flyaway.

Ash & Erie Quarter Zip Sweater

Ash & Erie offers crew neck, v-neck and quarter zip sweaters. I decided to try a quarter zip.

It’s cut just a bit fuller than the other tops I tried on, probably because this type of sweater is meant to be worn over another shirt (i.e., you wouldn’t wear it on its own).

I’m wearing it here over the OCBD – a timeless layering combo that looks good on pretty much anyone.

Just like the Everyday Shirt and henley, these sleeves are a good length for my arms. Isn’t it nice not having to go the tailor for a change?

The ribbed hem offers a little bit of compression around the waist/hips, but it’s not so much that the sweater will ride up and produce the dreaded muffin top effect.

My only suggestion for Ash & Erie is to work on offering more colors in the future. I’d love to see this sweater in dark green, burgundy, dark brown and cream.

Ash & Erie Quarter Zip Sweatshirt

This cotton/poly quarter zip is a more casual alternative to the standard wool quarter zip.

While the XS size fits me well, I could probably wear a S for more layering room underneath.

I like the burgundy color and hidden zip placket. Also, the shorter cuff height is a nice detail.

This is a cozy sweater best suited for cooler months. The fleece lining would be too hot for mild or warm temps.

Ash & Erie Jeans

Next up, let’s look at another customer favorite: the jeans.

Ash & Erie only offers one cut right now, a modern slim fit that should work for most guys.

These jeans have 2% stretch built in, and they’re available with shorter inseams (as short as 25 inches).

The leg is slim but not skinny, and there is a slight taper from the knee down. The leg opening is slim enough to wear with no break but wide enough to fit over the top of my boots.

The rise is on the lower side, which should be a good thing for most shorter guys.

I’m wearing the Midtown Wash, a faded medium blue color that works well with grey, brown, green and pretty much any other colors hanging in your closet right now.

I like these jeans, and I’d like to see Ash & Erie offer more colors and fits in the future.

Ash & Erie Henley Shirt

As a shorter man, I find that most henley shirts are too long for me. They go down past my fly, and the sleeves are typically 2-4 inches too long for my arms.

As expected, this isn’t the case with this Ash & Erie henley.

It fits well in the sleeves and torso, and the slightly curved hem is a nice touch. It’s super soft and very comfortable.

I also appreciate the scaled down details, such as the shorter sleeve cuffs and narrow three button placket.

If you have trouble finding henley shirts that aren’t too long, you might want to give this one a try.

Ash & Erie T-Shirt

Speaking of casual shirts, Ash & Erie now sells men’s t-shirts in both crew and v-neck styles.

I decided to try a v-neck because I find that the “V” is often too deep with traditional brands.

Luckily, this neck line has the right shape and depth for shorter guys.

The sleeve length and overall shirt length are also spot on. Like the henley shirt, this tee has a slightly curved hem.

To me, this is a somewhat slim fit t-shirt. It’s definitely not boxy on me, and I’m a pretty slim guy.

Overall, I’m very happy with the way this shirt looks and feels on me.

Ash & Erie Long Sleeve Pocket Tee

This cotton-poly blend long sleeve tee is extremely soft and comfortable, and the heather navy color will look good on anyone.

It does feel slightly big on me, compared to the short sleeve t-shirt in the same size (XS), but this seems like the type of shirt that will shrink up a bit in the laundry.

I do like the fact that the cuffs and pocket are scaled down in size for shorter men.

Ash & Erie Long Sleeve Pima Tee

This pima tee, which also has a chest pocket, seems a bit trimmer than the pocket tee I tried on above.

Or maybe my work on the bench press is finally starting to pay off… 🙏🏻

Either way, the fit is solid with a nice amount of taper from the chest to hem.

I love the saturated green color as a nice alternative to my usually muted palette.

Ash & Erie Knit Sweater

This chunky, warm and casual knit sweater is made from 100% cotton and perfect for cold weather.

If you like weight and texture, you’ll love this sweater. I probably wouldn’t wear it over a button up shirt, but it feels great over a crew neck tee.

The fit isn’t slim, but this sort of sweater is meant to have a bit more room. I think it fits really well on my somewhat slim build.

Ash & Erie Polo Shirt

Of everything I tried on this time around, the polo was the surprise hit. It fits really well:

When a polo fits well, it actually enhances your figure. This is exactly how I like polo shirts to fit.

The shoulders, neck and chest are nice and fitted, and the ribbed sleeves hug my biceps, which tends to make your arms look more muscular.

The length is great for wearing untucked, but you could definitely tuck this polo in. It’s slim enough that it wouldn’t create a muffin top effect.

The jetted check pocked is a nice little touch too. I’ve seen this type of detail on brands like Ted Baker in the past.

Again, my only suggestion for Ash & Erie is to add more colors. I usually stick to the basics, but a few more solid colors or subtle patterns would be nice.

Also, I’d love to see a long sleeve version of the polo shirt at some point in the future.

Ash & Erie Tech Polo

Here’s another short sleeve polo from A&E, this one made from 100% synthetic materials (think golf wear).

I prefer the fit of their standard polo to this one, mostly because of the sleeve width.

I’m also not crazy about the bright red color, which totally washes me out. This bright, saturated hue would look good on darker skin tones and might be more appropriate for the golf course.

Ash & Erie Short Sleeve Shirt

As of summer 2020, Ash & Erie released a bunch of short sleeve shirts in various colors, patterns and fabrics.

These are sized just like their long sleeve button ups, so I took my same size (XS, slim fit).

I chose the Basin Blue colorway, which is a textured violet-blue linen-cotton blend (25% linen).

It fits just like the Everyday Shirt, except the sleeves are shorter (duh).

After wearing this shirt a few times, I’m very happy with the fit, although I prefer cuffing the sleeves once for a slightly shorter, more tapered look.

Ash & Erie Chinos

I wanted to mention that I tried their chinos as well. Like the jeans, these are slim fit and have some stretch built in.

But for some reason, size 28 is too snug in the waist and hips, but 29 is too roomy.

I didn’t have this problem with the jeans, which is weird because the chinos should have more stretch (3% instead of 2%). It might have to do with the construction or weight of the fabric.

That said, I don’t have a hard time finding chinos that fit. I tend to wear chinos cuffed, and many brands make shorter inseam chinos these days, so finding the right length isn’t an issue.

For this reason, I probably wouldn’t buy my chinos from Ash & Erie, at least not until they come out with a different cut that works better for my build.

Ash & Erie Chino Shorts

Ash & Erie’s Chino Shorts are made from lightweight stretch cotton (2% elastane).

They feel like normal weight chino shorts to me – not super thin like some summerweight or “tech” shorts.

The 7″ inseam length and tapered leg opening fits me well, although these seem to run large compared to the chino pants.

Size 28 is almost loose on my waist, but that same size was too tight with the pants (maybe I just got an odd pair?).

Either way, these fit well, and I like the color. Check them out right here.

Ash & Erie Tech Shorts

These Tech Shorts are Ash & Erie’s take on a lightweight workout short.

They’re minimal. I’d probably wear compression boxer briefs underneath these to actually work out.

Otherwise, they’re comfy lounge shorts for warmer seasons. You could also use these for hiking or even as sleepwear.

Ash & Erie Winter Parka

This parka is Ash & Erie’s first attempt at a heavy jacket, and it’s pretty solid, especially for the price.

It’s a hip-length coat with dual function handwarmer pockets, plush synthetic insulation and a removable hood.

The sleeve length is just right for me, but be aware that this is not a slim fit jacket. It’s slightly boxy on me, sort of like the Peter Manning parka.

Then again, there aren’t many parkas made for short men, so I appreciate how this one fits.

Ash & Erie Bomber Jacket

Speaking of outerwear for short guys, let’s look at Ash & Erie’s Bomber, a lightweight jacket in an easy-to-wear, washed dark blue shade.

It fits me really well. I could see wearing this jacket during late spring and on cool summer evenings.

My one gripe has to do with the lack of a ribbed hem at the bottom of the jacket. Like most bombers, this one has ribbing at the collar and cuffs, but the bottom is just a plain hem.

To me, it seems like something is missing, as if the bottom was chopped off.

It’s not a dealbreaker, but I would like to see a more traditional take on the bomber, as I think the ribbed hem makes the garment feel complete.

Ash & Erie Denim Chore Jacket

This denim chore jacket doesn’t fit me perfectly (the sleeves are a bit long) but it’s definitely a high-quality garment – the kind that gets better with age.

It’s made from Cone denim with just a hint of stretch. The washed indigo is inky blue and will likely develop some sick fades, bro.

If you’re a shorter guy and have been looking for a heritage quality denim overshirt or jacket, this is probably the one.

Ash & Erie Overshirt

Speaking of “shackets” or overshirts, this is Ash & Erie’s take on the heavy overshirt.

Like with the Chore Jacket, the sleeves on this overshirt are too long for me. They might shrink up in a high heat dry cycle, but that’s a risky maneuver.

This shirt reminds me a lot of Everlane’s heavy work shirt. Like, it might be from the same factory. The fabric feels exactly the same to me.

Other than the sleeve length, the overall fit and details are spot on.

Ash & Erie Pullover Hoodie

This French terry pullover hoodie is made with 95% cotton and 5% Spandex, so it has a lot of stretch to it.

Compared to other brands, the XS size is very fitted on me. It’s actually perfect for wearing to the gym.

I could definitely size up, but since this is made from pre-shrunk cotton, I’m not too worried about it shrinking in the laundry.

The hood seems slightly large compared to the rest of the garment, but maybe I just have a small head (I never wear the hood up anyway).

It’s not a dealbreaker at all, just something I noticed. Overall, I’m very happy with this hoodie.

Ash & Erie Joggers

Looking for a nice pair of joggers for shorter guys? These might work for you.

Compared to other brands, these are fitted and short.

This size (XS) has a listed inseam of 25-27″ and is closer to 25″ on my build.

These joggers are pretty snug. I think I’d be more comfortable in a size S and possible a 27-29″ inseam.

As is, these fit more like workout pants and will be good for deadlift days.

Update: I tried on their size S joggers, and they actually fit me better. So, if you’re in between sizes, size up.

Ash & Erie Harrington Jacket

I tried the S and XS on, and the XS definitely fit my 5’6″ frame better.

If anything, the sleeves are a touch long, but it’s really not a big deal with this style of jacket.

I really like this take on the Harrington.

The color is great, and it has several classic Harrington features, including reverse flap hand pockets, ribbed cuffs and plaid pattern lining.

I’d like to see a separating zipper – another classic Harrington detail – but since this jacket fits well in the hips, it’s not a deal breaker.

For me, this Ash & Erie Harrington fits much better than the Peter Manning NYC Harrington.

Ash & Erie Denim Jacket

The main problem with most ready to wear denim jackets is the sleeve length. If you’re a shorter guy, the sleeves are probably too long.

The body length is usually okay since denim/trucker jackets are typically cut to hip length.

This one from Ash & Erie is better than most denim jackets I’ve tried (for example, the Levi’s Trucker Jacket), but it’s not perfect.

The main problem is that the sleeves are still slightly too long for my arms.

The fabric feels good. It’s nice and stretchy.

I’d probably opt for a more subtle rinse, or no distressing at all.

But I think this is a solid denim jacket for most shorter guys with average length arms, assuming you like the wash and pre-faded design.

Ash & Erie Peacoat

Calling this a peacoat is a bit of a stretch since it’s single-breasted and doesn’t have lapels. But, naming aside, I was pleasantly surprised by this jacket.

The “black” color is more of a charcoal herringbone, which is really versatile. There’s also a lighter grey version of this jacket, which is even better (for my wardrobe).

The collar can be worn up or down. It stands up on its own easily. The invisible placket hides the five plastic buttons for a clean, modern look.

The fit is just right. It’s not too tight, and it drapes cleanly over a sweater.

I like the sleeve length too. Sure, it could be an inch shorter (on my shorter-than-average arms), but this is meant to be worn during fall and winter, so the extra length would keep my wrists warm.

I have one gripe with this peacoat: it’s 80% polyester and only 20% wool. Wool-poly blends are fine, but at $228 full retail, I’d like to see at least 50% wool in the mix.

Ash & Erie Down Jacket

This is an actual down jacket, meaning the fill is “a 90% duck down / 10% duck feather blend” (according to Ash & Erie’s website).

It fits well. The sleeve length and body length are both correct. I like the simple styling: no high contrast zippers or lining.

It is a puffy down jacket. Maybe even too puffy for my taste.

If you compare this to my light puffer from Everlane, for example, it just looks bulky.

Most guys probably don’t care about this, but I feel like a bulkier puffer makes my somewhat svelte frame look even smaller.

So, while I appreciate the quality and overall fit of this jacket, it’s not perfect for me.

Given how hard it is to find a down jacket with shorter sleeves, though, this one still gets my stamp of approval.

Ash & Erie Puffer Vest

Unlike their down jacket, Ash & Erie’s puffer vest is made with polyester filling (so it’s not a down vest).

Personally, I don’t really care what’s inside as long as it fits well and keeps me warm.

This vest does fit well, and it does feel warm enough for cooler seasons.

It’s the right length for my 5’6″ (in shoes) frame, but I wouldn’t want it any longer. If you’re very short, like under 5’4″, this might be too long for you.

On first wear, the quality feels solid. I like the side zip pockets and hidden inside zip pocket. I also like the internal drawstring that can be used to bring in the hem and trap warm air against your body.

All and all, this is a solid lightweight puffer vest for shorter guys, or really anyone who’s not super tall.

I wish they made more colors, though!

My Recommendation

Overall, I’m very happy with almost everything I tried on from Ash & Erie (with the exception of the chinos).

My favorite pieces are the Everyday Shirt, polo and jeans.

If you’re a shorter man and are tired of wearing clothes that don’t fit or paying to have everything tailored, I think you should give Ash & Erie a try.

Ash & Erie Discount Code

If you’re a first time customer, you can use the code MODESTMAN20 for 20% off your first Ash & Erie order. Enjoy!

Have you tried Ash & Erie? Share your review below!