How to Wear Ties Casually

The approach is about balance if you're wondering how to wear a tie to a casual event. While there's no strict dress code, you can still keep things stylish without going overboard. A classic choice is a simple polo or white shirt paired with chinos. However, adding a casual tie to a crisp white shirt can improve your look. Choose a subtle, well-crafted tie that adds elegance without being too formal, keeping your outfit relaxed but polished. Let's look at how to wear a tie casually while keeping your style. 

Different Types of Casual Ties

Not all neckties are suitable for all shirts. It's essential to pick the best tie and shirt combinations for a polished yet casual look. Generally, wide ties are for shirts with wide collars, and skinny ties are for shirts with narrow collars. Notably, the tie should not have a design similar to the shirt's print, as there will be too much of a clash. 

It's far more advisable to wear plain ties with patterned shirts and patterned ties with plain shirts. Choose appealing colours to enhance your outfit while showing off your flair. Remember the textures and materials—cotton and linen ties are generally great for casual events, while satins and silks are great for formal eveningwear. If you wear a wool jacket or blazer, wear a wool tie or another thick-material tie to complement your ensemble.

How to Wear a Tie for a Casual Event

When it comes to casual events, wearing a tie is about finding the balance between looking sharp and staying comfortable. Here's how to wear a tie for different casual occasions.

For Intimate Weddings: Bow Ties

Bow ties are no longer just for formal events or a black tie dress code. They are a fun and stylish choice for smaller weddings, especially if you want to stand out without overdoing it. Opt for a fun patterned bow tie like polka dots, stripes, or flowers for a casual wedding. Pair it with a simple blazer and a shirt in a light colour to keep the look fresh and light-hearted. A bow tie can also be worn with a suit in more relaxed settings, especially outdoor weddings or evening events with a laid-back vibe.

For Relaxed Dinner Parties: Ties With Sweaters

A tie with a sweater is the perfect combo for a dinner party. It's casual yet smart and works incredibly well in cooler months. Pair a neutral-coloured sweater with a subtle tie, like a solid wool tie or a simple pattern. Consider a deep burgundy tie or a charcoal grey tie. These colours are sophisticated but not too bold, perfectly complementing a neutral sweater while maintaining a relaxed, smart vibe. You can even layer it with a casual blazer or jacket. The key is keeping the tie relaxed but well-tied for a neat, approachable look perfect for a cozy dinner with friends. 

For Casual Office Days: Different Types of Ties

When you want to add a tie to your casual office attire, go for a more laid-back material like cotton or linen. These fabrics are breathable and less formal. You can go right with a simple cotton tie in a muted tone like navy blue, grey or a soft pastel tie for the office. Pair it with a button-up shirt and a jacket or blazer that complements the tie without overwhelming the look. This is an easy way to upgrade a casual workday outfit.

For Laid-Back Weekend Outings: Knitted Ties

Knitted ties are perfect for weekend outings, whether for a relaxed brunch or a weekend get-together with friends. The knitted texture adds a bit of interest while keeping the look casual. Pair a knitted tie with a shirt and jeans for an effortlessly cool vibe. You can experiment with different colours and patterns — try a solid knitted tie with a patterned shirt, or vice versa, to add visual contrast while still looking relaxed.

For Casual Gatherings: Linen Ties

Linen ties are a great way to add style to a more laid-back look for casual gatherings. Whether you're heading to a barbecue or an outdoor party, a linen tie pairs well with lightweight fabrics and gives off an easygoing yet sharp look. Pair a light linen tie with a short-sleeve shirt or casual blazer to keep it stylish but comfortable. Stick to neutral or pastel colours for a fresh, clean appearance.

For Informal Outdoor Events: Solid and Patterned Ties

For casual outdoor events, such as garden parties or a day at the races, a solid tie or one with a simple pattern is the best choice. Avoid bright or flashy colours; opt for muted tones or subtle patterns like checks or striped ties. These ties are versatile enough to complement a range of outfits, from blazers to casual shirts, and they can be easily dressed up or down depending on the event's formality.

How to Tie Casual Knots

The tie knot you choose can significantly impact your overall look. Here are some easy and stylish casual knots that will perfectly complement your laid-back outfit:

Four-in-Hand Knot

The four-in-hand knot is a classic and easy-to-tie knot that gives a more relaxed and slightly asymmetrical look. It's perfect for casual events because it's neat but needs to be more structured. Here's how to tie it:

• Start with the wide end of your tie on the right and the small end on the left.
• Cross the wide end over the small end.
• Bring the wide end under the small end and across the front again.
• Pass the wide end up through the loop around your neck.
• Pull the wide end down through the front loop.
• Tighten the knot by pulling on the wide end while sliding the knot up to your collar.

Trinity Knot

The trinity knot is more intricate but casual enough for less formal events. It has a unique triangular shape and works well with patterned ties. Here's how to tie it:

• Start with the tie draped around your neck with the wide end on the right.
• Cross the wide end over the narrow end.
• Pass the wide end behind the narrow end.
• Bring the wide end up over the neck loop and through the front loop.
• Pass the wide end through the right loop, from front to back.
• Tighten the knot by pulling the wide end and adjusting it to form a neat triangle shape.

The Simple Knot

If you want something simpler than the four-in-hand knot, go for the simple one. It's quick to tie and gives off a relaxed yet tidy vibe. Here's how to tie it:

• Place the wide end on the right and the small end on the left, with the small end slightly higher than the desired length of the tie.
• Cross the wide end over the small end.
• Bring the wide end under the small end and up through the neck loop.
• Pull the wide end down through the loop you've just created.
• Tighten by pulling the wide end and adjusting the knot.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is there a casual way to wear a tie?

You can wear a tie casually by opting for more relaxed fabrics like linen, cotton, or knitted ties and pairing them with casual outfits like a shirt, chinos, or a sweater.

Can I wear a tie without a suit?

Absolutely! Ties can be worn without a suit by pairing them with casual shirts, sweaters, or jackets for a smart-casual or laid-back look.

What is the proper etiquette for wearing a tie?

The proper etiquette for wearing a tie includes ensuring it is neatly tied, reaches the top of your belt buckle, and complements your outfit's overall tone and occasion.

How do you wear a relaxed tie?

To wear a relaxed tie, choose a fabric like linen or cotton, opt for a simple knot like the four-in-hand, and pair it with casual attire like a shirt or sweater for a balanced, laid-back look.