Select a tie to go with your suit
There are so many options and finding the perfect one can be overwhelming.
This article is going to show you how to select a necktie in three easy steps.
Why is a necktie important?
A tie is important because it will often add the dash of flavor and strong accent to the overall outfit with its color and pattern.
While suits are typically gray, navy, or black and dress shirts either blue or white, neckties come in all sorts of colors, patterns, and sizes.
Choosing a necktie can be easy
All you need is to understand a little bit about:
- Necktie Pattern
- Necktie Color
- Necktie Proportion
#1- Matching Factor – Necktie Pattern
Necktie patterns range from stripes to paisleys to tartan-check.
The #1 rule for matching patterns is that no two pieces of clothing should use the same pattern size or type.
What is pattern size?
Pattern size is the distance between the stripes on your shirt and the width of the stripes on your tie. The pattern sizes on your shirt and your necktie should not be the same. By doing this you can create an optical illusion of movement which the human eye finds unattractive.
Here is an example of a good match
A subtle pinstriped suit with a larger check patterned dress shirt and intricate paisley pattern tie is acceptable;
Example of a bad or questionable match
Wearing that same pin-striped suit and large check patterned dress shirt with a striped tie that that is similar to the suit’s stripe separation will create a questionable look.
Of all three factors, pattern is the most important. A man will not wear a color he doesn’t like but will often choose the wrong pattern.
For the purposes of tie matching we do not classify solid colored ties as having any pattern.
Therefore the rules of pattern matching do not apply to true solid colored neckwear.
As a result you could match multiple solids. A combination of solids might appear boring, but acceptable and safe. However, because pattern is not a factor the next two variables are even more important when considering a solid necktie.
#2 Matching Factor – Necktie Color
When matching color the first thing you want do is make sure that the colors of your clothing are in harmony.
Trust your gut instinct.
If you have doubts trust your gut and try something different.
You could try and “convince yourself” something matches, but then you won’t wear it with confidence. Trust first impressions – others you meet will.
What does it mean to match?
What has precedent in terms of priority?
- First, start with the suit -it is the largest clothing item and will be the foundation of the outfit.
- Next, pull out a few dress shirts of various colors and patterns and ensure you have two that match the suit.
- After that, pull out a few of your favorite ties and match them to your suit and dress shirts.
- Again, trust your gut, most of us can see when there is a conflict between colors – something just looks wrong.
If you feel your tie does not match, do not try to force it.
If you are not sure, the safest bet is to stick with the traditional red business necktie
Non-bright red and to a lesser extent gold and blue will go with most dark suits and white or light to medium-blue shirt combinations.
Finally, always remember that you want the necktie to accent your suit and shirt, not dominate them. If your tie overpowers your suit, you can bet it will draw attention from your face as well.
#3 Matching Factor – Necktie Proportion
Although often not as important as pattern or color, proportion plays a role in matching your necktie.
What is proportion?Proportion is the size of the tie and how wide it is.
- The standard men’s necktie width is 3.5 inches
- A skinny necktie
(less than 3 inches wide)
- An excessively wide necktie
(more than 3.75 inches).
Which proportion is for me?
It depends on your height, weight, and the width of your suit’s lapels.
A thin petite man will look sharp with thin lapels and a thin tie.
However, a large man with wider build lapels wearing the same skinny tie will look ridiculous.
Now you know how to use pattern, color, and proportion to select the best tie for your outfit.
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