How to Choose a Tie
Few fashion accessories can enhance an outfit like a necktie. Follow these tips to look your classiest.
Up next in Men's Fashion 101 (21 videos)
Why do you need the fashion advice in these Howcast videos? Because every woman likes a well-dressed man.
You Will Need
- Tie
- Jackets
- Suits
- Shirts
- Self-awareness
- Sense of style (optional)
Steps
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Step 1
Size it up
Pick a tie that hits the top of your belt buckle and measures between 2¼ and 4 inches wide. For a classic look, choose a width that corresponds to the width of your jacket's lapel.
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Step 2
Remember textures
Wear wool ties with tweed or heavyweight jackets, and silk ties with business suits. For a deeper color quality on silk ties, make sure they’re woven, rather than screened.
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Step 3
Match colors
Select a tie that has the colors of your suit and shirt as well as at least one other color to provide an accent. For formal occasions, choose a solid colored tie that’s darker than your shirt.
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Avoid novelty ties -- though they can provide a festive look, they're more likely to be distracting.
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Step 4
Look in the mirror
Frame your face. If you have dark hair and a dark complexion, go with a bright tie; if you're fair, choose a darker tie. If your hair and skin tone contrast, wear a tie that contrasts with your skin tone.
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Step 5
Match patterns
Pick a pattern that complements your outfit. If your shirt's pattern is pronounced, choose a subtle tie; if your shirt is muted, your tie can be a bit flashier.
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If you wear a striped tie and striped shirt, make sure the stripes are different sizes.
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Step 6
Stay classy
When in doubt, stay subtle; while a tie can be the focal point of an outfit, it's an accessory and shouldn't pull the focus away from you.
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The French popularized the necktie in the 17th century after seeing it on Croatian soldiers during the Thirty Years War.
