How to choose a tie for men: a few tips

Every man has faced the question of how to choose a tie to match their suit at least once in their life. Not everyone is familiar with the basic rules of pairing. Today, informal styles predominate, even among office workers and top managers of many companies. Nevertheless, there are still situations where it is necessary not only to acquire a suitable suit, but also to carefully select all accompanying accessories.

Main principles of tie selection

There are several basic rules to follow when choosing a tie. Usually, the tie is chosen to match the suit, not the other way around. When selecting, it is necessary to coordinate the accessories with the jacket, and not only the tie, but also the shirt, and other elements should match. To avoid mistakes, it is best to follow the rule of «from larger to smaller». However, there are other rules that must be followed.

Tie color and fabric pattern

There are several rules that will help you choose the perfect tie based on color and matching with other elements of the suit:

• Avoid choosing the same pattern or color for all suit elements. For example, if all elements are in a checkered pattern, the ensemble as a whole will look simply ridiculous.
• When choosing the tie color to match the suit, you can notice that any tie color will be suitable for a neutral-colored suit. If the suit is blue and the shirt is white, the tie can be dark blue or burgundy.
• It is appropriate to combine two dark colors with one light and vice versa.
• If the suit and shirt are striped, it is necessary to ensure that the pattern is of different scales. The same applies to the width of the stripe on the shirt and tie if the jacket and pants are solid. There should be no more than two elements in the ensemble with stripes of different widths, and the third element should duplicate the color of the stripe.
• The same applies to the checkered pattern: no more than two items in the ensemble, and different widths.
  It is not recommended to combine several items with a small pattern in one ensemble, in this case, the rules for checkered or striped patterns no longer apply.
• Choose the tie color at the final stage, when the suit and shirt have already been selected.
• In the classic version, choose a plain dark tie without patterns, which should be darker than the shirt but lighter than the jacket.
• Black, burgundy, and dark blue are considered universal tie colors.

Tie material

Great attention should be paid to the fabric when choosing a tie, specifically its quality. Natural wool can be considered as the best lining, while silk is commonly used as the material for the tie itself. More expensive items consist of three components, while more affordable ones consist of two. The surface of the tie should feel soft and smooth to the touch.

How to choose a tie based on the type of fabric:

• The best ties are always made from more expensive fabrics, such as wool, silk, cashmere, cotton, or linen.
• More affordable ties are made from polyester. They are more difficult to tie and cheaper fabrics are easily recognizable by their characteristic sheen. Viscose ties quickly lose their presentable appearance.
• Ties made of wool or heavy silk are suitable for thick suits. Ties made of cotton or linen are suitable for summer suits.

Shape and length of the tie

When choosing a tie for a man, there are several secrets to consider, such as the shape and length of the accessory, usually chosen according to the man’s build.

• Wide ties are more suitable for larger men;
• Medium-width or narrow ties are more suitable for slim men;
• The taller the man, the longer the tie should be;
• The bottom tip of the tie should, according to the rules, cover the belt buckle;
• The narrow end of the tie should be such that you can remove the tie without untying it, but only by loosening it.

Quality of a tie

One of the most important criteria when choosing the right accessory is its quality. First and foremost, this is important from the standpoint of tie durability, as you want it to last you for many years. However, there are also other reasons. In certain circles, a low-quality tie immediately catches the eye. It’s better not to have one at all than to demonstrate such a faux pas. When choosing a tie, you need to take into account both the quality of the main fabric and the quality of the lining, which is most often made of wool.

• Handmade ties are usually made from three pieces of fabric sewn diagonally. Usually, such ties are quite expensive, but when choosing one, it is still necessary to check for any protruding threads and rough seams;
• The loop on the back of the tie should be made from the same fabric as the tie itself;
• A good tie cannot be easily wrinkled. In addition, it should hold the knot’s shape well and not twist. To check the latter point, you just need to hang it on your hand.

How to wear a tie correctly

There are several basic rules that will help you determine how to wear this accessory. Mostly the recommendations are related to choosing the tie color depending on the situation, but there are also other important rules.

• To avoid a conflict between the shirt and tie, you need to consider the combination of color and pattern. A colored shirt goes well with a tie in the same color palette;
• A tie in the same color as the print should be chosen for a striped or checkered shirt; Striped ties are considered universal and are suitable for almost any shirt;
• A polka dot tie should be worn with a shirt of the same color as the tie print;
• The texture of the tie should correspond to the texture of the shirt;
• Accessories should match in quality and size;
• It is better to choose a tie clip with teeth to prevent it from slipping off at the most inappropriate moment;
• A tie pin is best suited for woolen ties, as this fabric is the least prone to deformation; It is best to avoid bulky or extravagant details in additional accessories.

Stylish combinations of ties and suits

There are several combinations that are guaranteed to attract attention and demonstrate the owner’s bold style.

• Bright ties with geometric patterns, as well as polka dots or stripes, look great with most suits. The tie color can be anything: purple, indigo, ash-green. However, it’s important to remember that when choosing such a tie, it’s best to go for a dark solid color suit;
• Ties with a bulky knot that widen towards the bottom are still considered a stylish accessory. They are suitable for the office;
• A non-standard business look can be achieved by choosing a classic dark blue suit and pairing it with a white shirt with a geometric print, as well as a solid tie that is one or two shades lighter than the jacket;
• An orange tie with an unusual texture can also be an interesting addition to any suit. It pairs best with a light shirt (including one with a small check) and a dark jacket made of thick fabric.

Don’t be afraid to experiment. By following these simple tips, you can easily create the perfect look that will be suitable for any occasion. Remember that a suit can express your individuality as well as, in some cases, even better than casual clothing style.