This is an honest, long-term review of Peter Manning NYC, a clothing brand that makes classic American clothes for short men.
If you’re thinking about buying Peter Manning clothes, you’ve come to the right place!
I’ve tried on just about everything Peter Manning NYC makes, from their t-shirts and jeans to their suits and outerwear.
There are a few Peter Manning pieces that still have a place in my closet, but I have to pass on most of their collection due to inconsistent fit, odd color/fabric choices, and high prices.
In this detailed, hands-on and unsponsored PMNYC review, I’ll show you how everything fits and give you my recommendation on what to buy and what to avoid.
About Peter Manning NYC
There are only a few brands that cater to short men. Peter Manning is one of these. In fact, they focus exclusively on men 5’8″ and under.
They’ve been around since 2012, but the original founder (Peter) is no longer involved in the company.
An online first brand with a physical showroom in NYC’s Flatiron neighborhood, PMNYC carries shirts, pants, formalwear and outerwear.
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 Tried
Here are the pieces in this review:
- Peter Manning Everyday Shirt
- Peter Manning Short Sleeve Shirt
- Peter Manning NYC Jeans
- Peter Manning Polo Shirts
- Peter Manning T-Shirts
- Peter Manning NYC Chino Shorts
- Tribeca Field Jacket
- Peter Manning Leather Jacket
- Peter Manning Down Jacket
- Peter Manning NYC Suits & Sportcoats
The Peter Manning Aesthetic
Certain brands do a great job of creating a desirable overarching aesthetic, a collection of pieces that can be easily paired into an endless combination of stylish outfits.
Think J.Crew, Ralph Lauren, Everlane, Bonobos, ASKET, Taylor Stitch, Billy Reid, etc.
This isn’t easy. Brands that do this successfully rely on the direction of talented, trained stylists and creative directors who know how to match colors and fabrics to create a cohesive collection.
Menswear brands that are run by entrepreneurs, not fashion designers, tend to struggle with aesthetic and cohesion.
Peter Manning has this problem.
If you try on a bunch of things from Peter Manning NYC, you’ll likely find one or two items that work in your wardrobe. But it’s a difficult to build a 100% Peter Manning outfit without looking a bit…off.
This is due to a lack of contemporary fits, mismatches between product categories, and odd color/pattern choices.
Some of the colors they release are simply tough to match with anything:
View this post on Instagram
Others are okay on their own but don’t gel with the rest of the collection:
View this post on Instagram
Tonal schemes like red-on-red can work, but this washed out brick red henley doesn’t go with the bright red buffalo plaid shirt.
Bottom line: even if you’re into the PMNYC style (classic fit, preppy aesthetic), don’t assume every item from this brand can be worn together.
Peter Manning Everyday Shirts
Possibly the brand’s most popular product, this button up shirt falls somewhere between dressy and casual.
For me, it’s just short enough to wear untucked, but if I tuck it in, it’s a bit billowy around the waist.
The shirt is pre-washed, so it feels soft and broken in. It’s very comfortable.
The sleeves are a bit roomy for my arms. I actually had a different Peter Manning Everyday Shirt tailored for a slimmer fit, and it looks much better.
Peter Manning Short Sleeve Shirt
I’ve also tried on Peter Manning’s short sleeve button up shirts.
Again, these are a bit boxy on my somewhat thin frame (I’m about 5’6″ and 125 lbs). But this one is a good length for wearing untucked, which in nice!
Peter Manning NYC Jeans
Peter Manning makes a few different styles of jeans, all available in shorter inseams. I’ve tried their standard, slim and skinny jeans.
I own two pairs of Peter Manning standard fit jeans, one dark blue and one medium blue (shown here). The length is good, but they’re not as slim as I’d like.
They do have a medium rise, which I prefer over low-rise pants, but the top block is too tight for athletic builds (i.e., the jeans are tight around the hips, especially in skinny fit).
The jean styles can feel a bit…classic. This is a good thing if you’re going for that #dadstyle look!
Peter Manning Polo Shirts
I’ve tried three different Peter Manning polos: the James Polo (a classic pique polo), the Pocket Polo, and the Long Sleeve Polo.
Of the three styles, my favorite would be the Pocket Polo due to the slimmer fit.
The James Polo is your standard pique polo. The body length is a bit shorter than polos you’ll find off the rack.
The fit is standard (cut straight through the torso).
The Long Sleeve Polo didn’t fit as well on me.
The shoulders were too wide and sleeves too long.
Note: PMNYC did release a new version of the LS polo, which was more fitted, but the forearms were impossibly tight (even on my skinny arms!).
Peter Manning T-Shirts
I’ve worn Peter Manning’s pima cotton tees for a while. The fit is okay, but I still prefer Uniqlo tees (which are way cheaper).
On me, Peter Manning tees are tight around the biceps but loose in the midsection.
I’ve also noticed that the collars get wrinkly after a couple of washes, which can only be fixed by ironing (not something I’m willing to do).
PMNYC Chino Shorts
I have a pair of Peter Manning chino shorts that I got taken in for a slimmer fit, and they’re some of my favorite shorts.
Unaltered, PMNYC chino shorts feature a straight leg and wider leg opening:
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If you prefer this sort of traditional shorts fit, these might be a good fit for you, but check out this list of the best chino shorts first.
Tribeca Field Jacket
Like all Peter Manning outerwear, the Tribeca Field Jacket has a classic (boxy) fit.
Fortunately, it has internal drawstrings you can use to suppress the torso to your liking.
I do wish the sleeves were about 2″ shorter.
I find that this jacket looks much better if I cuff the sleeves, essentially hemming them by ~2 inches.
Peter Manning Leather Jacket
Despite the sleeves being about an inch too long, this is still the only non-custom leather jacket I’ve found with a workable sleeve length.
For that reason alone, I’ve gotten a lot of wear out of this jacket over the years.
My one big gripe with the Peter Manning Lambskin Leather Jacket is the fit through the torso.
It’s a wide, boxy fit, especially on my svelte frame. Zipped up, there’s a lot of extra room, even if I’m wearing a couple layers underneath.
Unzipped, it looks fine, but I still wish it was slim fit (like a leather jacket should be, in my opinion).
Also, the lambskin gets very wrinkly. I don’t mind this, but it’s something to keep in mind.
See my full Peter Manning leather jacket review for more details.
Peter Manning Down Jacket
I sound like a broken record, but this down jacket has a roomy, boxy fit, especially for thinner guys.
It would probably work better on a hefty or stocky frame, but not someone with an athletic build (i.e., a large chest to waist drop).
I also think the style of this jacket leaves something to be desired. The contrast zippers and lining aren’t ‘really my thing.
Compare this Peter Manning down jacket to a similar jacket from Everlane, for example:
The Everlane puffer fits better and looks cooler.
Peter Manning NYC Suits & Sportcoats
When it comes to finding a suit that fits well as a shorter guy, jacket length and sleeve length are often the biggest problems.
Peter Manning suit jackets and sport coats do come with shorter jacket and sleeve lengths.
But the overall style and fit is pretty classic. It’s not slim fit, and the styles aren’t very contemporary.
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Basically, you’re not going find the Suitsupply aesthetic here.
Considering the price point, I actually recommend buying suits off the rack and getting them tailored, or going custom.
Buying a made-to-measure or bespoke suit isn’t as difficult or expensive as it used to be, and you’ll be able to choose any fabrics and details you like.
Is Peter Manning Worth It?
If you can stomach the price tag and don’t mind a traditional, somewhat boxy fit, Peter Manning may be a good choice for shorter men who can’t find shirts or outerwear that fits off the rack.
If you need pants shorter than 28 inches, and you’re willing to pay a premium to avoid hemming, you may like PMNYC’s pants collections too.
Peter Manning suits have a classic fit. The length works for shorter guys, but if you’re slender of athletic, you’ll likely need alterations. For the same price, you can consider going custom.
Generally, this brand is best for guys who prefer a classic, preppy fit and aesthetic (think Eddie Bauer or Tommy Bahama).
For the price, Peter Manning activewear isn’t as appealing as the competition (Ten Thousand lululemon, Rhone, Olivers, etc.).
FAQs About Peter Manning NYC
Here are answers to some of the most frequently asked questions about PMNYC:
Who owns Peter Manning?
Jeff Hansen is the majority owner of Peter Manning NYC. Its original founder, Peter, is no longer involved in the company.
Does Peter Manning have sales?
Yes, Peter Manning has several sales each year. Given the prices, it’s a good idea to wait for these sales.
Peter Manning vs. Ash & Erie?
Overall, I recommend Ash & Erie because they have slimmer fits and more modern designs. Personally, I wear more Ash & Erie items than PMNYC items.
Is Peter Manning worth it?
Peter Manning is worth it if you’re very short (under 5’6″) and can’t or don’t want to get your clothes tailored. It’s very easy to get pants hemmed and sleeves shortened, so I mostly recommend Peter Manning for guys who don’t want to go to the tailor and like the classic, preppy aesthetic.
Be sure to check out other shorter guy brands like Ash & Erie and Under 510 too!
I think your build is not average: 125lbs? I’m 5′ 6″, 159 lbs fit and PMNYC shirts are actually a bit snug but the pants at 31 slim/skinny fit me well.
But I def. agree that you can’t do 100% PMNYC; but then you shouldn’t do 100% on any brand, if you ask me.
Good review though!
Hey Brock,
what is the status of your business connection to PM now?
Thanks!
Hi Steve, TMM doesn’t have any relationship w/ PM (no affiliate links or sponsorships).
Hi Brock,
Thank you for the update. Have been watching your channel for a few years. I am about the same build as you. I also wear size 1. Just wondering what you think about their flannel shirt jacket. Thanks.
Thanks for following! I’ve worn one of PM’s flannel overshirts for a while now. The fit is pretty solid (sleeves are slightly long on me), but it hasn’t aged very well (i.e., lots of loose threads and buttons). I have a similar one from ASKET that feels a bit higher quality. I also like “shackets” that have hand pockets. To me, a shirt/jacket with two chest pockets looks too much like a regular flannel shirt. Just my two cents!
First,
I have to laugh, since after reading the comments, I see that you are 5’6” which is exactly what I pegged you at from your pictures!
Second,
You have no idea how excited I am to discover clothing designed for shorter men. My husband is 5’5” (on a good day) and has an inseam of 26 3/4” (I told him he had a 27” inseam after I measured—he has always worn 32-34×30 pants am I always have to take them up a lot!) He can never find pants short enough. He also looks really funny in shorts, (so does my son who inherited the no-leg gene from both sides) so thanks for putting this info out there!
Hey Brock,
Does Peter manning operate in asia?
I always struggle buying long sleeve shirts. The sleeves and torso length are always too long. Hopefully Peter Manning will be a good option to purchase better fitted shirts as I am switching to the corporate workforce.
I’m a 2x and have been on the site for months and it still says they are sold out. Please speed up production. Frustrated!
These prices are pretty high…
I live on Long Island.
Where is your brick and mortar, physical store located?
Mike
So are you actually wearing a size down from their recommended size?
Their fit chart told me I was a 2, and I just tried on an “Everyday” shirt, and it’s a bit baggy. :/ Think I’ll return and try a size 1. For the record, I’m 5′ 4″, 135lbs
Thanks for the site Brock!
Yeah but keep in mind, I prefer a close, slim fit (I’m about 125 lbs). Size 1 should fit you well.
Dang, 5′ 6″ 125lb?! Maybe I need to be buying running shoes instead of shirts. :p Jk. yeah I like a closer fit too. Gonna try the 1. Thanks a lot!
For the record, I exchanged the shirt for a size 1, and it is about as perfect as I could possibly hope for. Best fitting button up I’ve ever owned. Thanks again!
Brock,
What size shirts are you wearing in these pictures?
Large
All size 1.
I’m five foot and weigh a 173 lbs and find it very difficult to find clothes that fit properly and I also have an athletic build
Hi Brock,
Thanks for the review. Personally, I have great trouble finding the right clothes to fit me. I am 5 feet 4 inches and of a heavy built.
Over the last few years I have found the perfect online stores for shirts. I prefer custom shirts now – I frequent the websites of indochino.com and vitruvien.com. Both these websites offer great shirts at great prices. Frankly, I would prefer them to off the rack.
However, I am still on the lookout for well fitting trousers. Somehow the sites i have tried have not worked for me. Will give Peter Manning a shot. Thanks for the tip!
Hi Brock – I just received a pair of shorts and a pair of chinos from Peter Manning – over $250 but I thought it would be worth it. They both have a rise of 11 inches, are baggy in the leg (despite claiming to be slim fit) and are far too big in the waist. Did I use a different Peter Manning? Help!
I would definitely try those on. It’s really hard for me (5plot) to look for some stuff that will fit for my body. It’s also kinda embarrassing for me to look in kids section for my size:D and I am 23 y’old already.
Any suggestions for suits? We’re running into a stone wall of jackets built for 6′ tall men in all the stores.
I love Peter Manning clothes. I can’t express how happy I am to be able to order for a clothing company and know the items I receive will not only fit but also attract positive feedback from the people around me. I’ve had a few people ask where I got my green chino’s from – They are easily the best fitting pants I have ever worn.
The only down side? Living in Australia it costs ~$125 to ship the clothes. It means that I need to order more than I would like to at a time to justify the shipping cost. It would be great if Peter Manning could work out a way to provide cheaper shipping for single items, then I would truly be in short guy heaven! That said, I am very grateful that the company does provide international shipping because I would be lost without them!
I bought chinos and a jumper from Peter Manning. I live in Europe and shipping was very expensive. To be honest it made the exercise uneconomic. The clothes do seem tailored for small guys. I’m 6 ft 6 in and slim. I also felt they cut was not very fashionable so it is a conservative look, useful for business casual.
Hey Ciaran,
Sorry to hear the shipping was so expensive. They’re a small company, so hopefully when they grow (with our support) they’ll be able to offer better rates to overseas customers.
Thanks for leaving your feedback…much appreciated!
-B
Thanks for this blog! I am married to a 5’7″ man and finding clothing, and jeans in particular, is such a nightmare. He’s not one to shop so it’s all on me to prevent him from walking around in badly fitting pants but it seems like they are ALL designed for super tall guys.
I had seen an article about Manning online but was skeptical so it’s really great to have a reviewof the jeans AND the shirts. I’m going to order him some today and see how it goes.
Glad to hear the review was helpful, and thanks for looking out for your man! Let me know how the Peter Manning clothes fit.
-B
Hey Brock,
Any chance of checking out Peter Manning for international online shopping.
Joe Canada is also waiting for your action on this.
Regards,
Barrie
Hey Barrie,
I did ask but don’t have an answer yet. I’d recommend sending them an email:
[email protected]
Let me know if you figure it out!
-B
Manning does ship to Canada, but the cost to Toronto for a $98 US pair of jeans is $25 US. That’s currently a total of $157 Cdn. Then there is $29 Cdn in duty that bumps the price to $186 Cdn. They’re good jeans, but expensive for Canadians. A pair of Levi 516 jeans, costs about $65 Cdn in Canada. A seamstress or tailor can alter the inseam for a lot less than $120 Cdn.
As like Barrie, I’m also wondering about the “if Peter Manning does international orders and what would be the approximate shipping cost for a shirt and jeans.” Or the about the availability of the product in Canada.
A $98 US pair of jeans costs $25 US for delivery, so $159 Cdn plus $29 Cdn in for duty. Grand total is $188.Canadian for jeans. They’re okay, but so are Levis. You can do a lot of tailoring in Canada to a pair of Levi 516s for about half that to alter the inseam.
G’day Brock,
I subscribe to your newsletter and find it helpful. Like you I am a “shorty” and those alterations keep getting expensive. Like $AU17 just to take up a too-long polo shirt.
I was wondering if Peter Manning does international orders and what would be the approximate shipping cost for a shirt and jeans.
It’the sixth day (D-Day) of winter here and it’s bloody cold.
Anyway Brock, have a good weekend. (We have a long weekend to honor the Queen’s Birthday).
Cheers mate,
Barrie Osborne (Port Melbourne — Australia)
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This is a fantastic post, Brock. Looking good. 🙂
Thank you, sir!
Looking good Brock! And you’re so right, the difference is in the details. I particularly like the lengths of these Peter Manning shirts, they are just perfect. For a long time I thought I was doing a decent job by taking my shirts to a tailor, but Peter Manning takes scale and fit to another level.
Hey, if you’re getting your shirts tailored, you’re ahead of most guys! But you’re right, you can really fix the details/scale. It is a whole other level.
Thanks. I look forward to your future posts.