How to Wear the Right Tie Every Time
Men's ties come in endless colours, fabrics, and styles — making choosing a tie exciting and overwhelming. Finding one that complements your look and personal style can be tricky, even if you've worn ties for years. The perfect tie not only adds polish but also reflects your personality. So, when choosing a tie, consider how it balances your overall outfit and improves your style. We'll walk you through the process.
How to Pick a Tie
To choose the ideal tie, consider how body type, face shape, collar style, and lapel width can enhance your overall look. Beyond its size, consider complementary patterns, colours, and textures. Accessories like collar bars, tie bars, and collar stays can further refine your appearance, bringing confidence and polish to your outfit.
Here are several factors to consider when you're trying to choose the right tie.
Tie Width
Proportion is the first and perhaps most important thing to consider when choosing a tie. That is, the length and width of the tie should be considered, as well as how they relate to the overall look. Generally, the right tie is proportional to the size of the individual wearing it. This rule is straightforward to understand. For instance, slimmer men look sharp with slim ties, which balance well with a slender frame. Broader men, on the other hand, may prefer wide ties that match their proportions.
Tie Length
The correct length for a tie should allow it to end precisely at your belt line. This length serves a functional and stylistic purpose, covering all the shirt buttons and creating a clean, streamlined look. The average tie typically means around 57-60 inches. However, longer ties (up to 63 inches) are available for taller individuals or those with larger frames. Adding a tie bar can make your outfit even more stylish by keeping the tie neatly in place, enhancing the overall look.
Tie Colour and Pattern
When creating the best shirt and tie combinations, use pattern size and colour coordination to improve the look. Choose a tie with a small pattern if the shirt has a large pattern and choose a tie with a larger design if the shirt has a small pattern. Whichever design you choose, ensure the shirt's dominant colour is the tie. The easiest way to match the patterns of shirts is to select a solid-coloured tie that matches the shirt's dominant colour.
The choice of tie colour depends on the occasion. A blue, black, or dark grey suit is best suited for many professional encounters. Wear white shirts with any coloured tie to complement your suit. Try adding a pop of colour with a red tie for festive events like Christmas. Even for New Year's Eve, a tie that gives a bold spark of colour, like a gold tie, can be an accessory to consider without looking too classic.
Tie Knot
The style of knots for neckties depends on the occasion and which style you are going for. Here, the size of the knot is vital. The most recommended knot is the "American Knot". It's natural and elegant and complements all types of shirt collars. You may have spent much time choosing a tie that best matches your shirt and suit. Everything seems correct. However, something as basic as the knot is forgotten. The best tie knot complements your shirt collar and, along with the right tie length, enhances your overall look. Matching the knot size and tie length to your frame helps balance your stature and style, making for a polished appearance.
Occasion
A neutral tie, like an olive green or navy blue, is advisable for business meetings and job interviews. Your interviewer may take you more seriously and be interested in you instead of the screaming Disney characters in your tie.
On the other hand, the tie can be chic and showy on festive occasions. A perfect choice would be a silk tie. Such a tie has a luxurious appearance and beautifully reflects the light whilst being soft to the touch. You should reserve black or white ties for the gala events and professional meetings. For a casual wedding, you can opt for a showy colour, such as pink or turquoise. You can also opt for a less discreet tie with more character, like a striped tie, for laid-back office environments.
Your Face Shape
In addition to choosing your tie according to your body shape, you can also consider your complexion and hair and even tie a knot according to the shape of your face. Wear colours contrasting your complexion, hair or eyes and see what works best.
Choosing between a bow tie and a necktie depends on the formality of the occasion and your personal style. A bow tie is great for formal events like black-tie affairs or weddings and gives a classic, polished look that stands out. A necktie is more versatile and suits both formal and semi-formal events, adding a touch of sophistication without being overly formal. Wear a necktie for a modern, understated look; choose a bow tie for a bold, timeless statement.
Bow Tie Basics
Today, bow ties come in various fabrics, patterns, and finishes, each suited for different occasions and styles. A classic black silk bow tie is timeless for formal events and pairs best with a tuxedo or formal suit. However, opt for textured or matte-finish fabrics like cotton, tweed, or even denim to bring a modern touch to your outfit. Patterned or pastel bow ties work well for daytime or semi-formal events.
While bold patterns add character for casual or creative gatherings, a striking diamond bow tie brings a unique edge to your look, standing out subtly without overwhelming your style. Choose the material and design to reflect the event's tone and your personality.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the rules for choosing a tie?
Select a tie that complements your shirt and suit colours, considering the occasion, with darker or more subdued colours for formal events and brighter patterns for casual settings.
How do I know what tie to wear?
Match your tie to your suit's colour scheme, shirt pattern, and formality level, ensuring a balanced, harmonious look that enhances the overall outfit.
How do you decide on a tie?
Choose a tie based on your outfit's colours and patterns, opting for complementary tones or subtle contrasts to create a polished look.
How do you match your tie to your suit?
Coordinate your tie with your suit and shirt by selecting complementary or contrasting colours and avoiding overly similar patterns to maintain visual interest.
