Ties are classic pieces of men’s wardrobe that comes in a wide range of colors and patterns. Picking out the perfect tie for work can be a hassle where you constantly feel placed on the spot to choose between the pieces you love and the ones best suited and professional for work. Your choice of tie can either make or break your overall look. A tie is a vital accessory that makes your outfit look well put together, it compliments your outfit, boosting your confidence and respect. However, these accessory ranges between colors and pattern which could make it a lot of hard work in finding the right piece that suit the occasion. Mixing colors and patterns can be difficult to master but to assist you in making informed picks that are work-worthy here are some tips to put you in perspective.
Choice of colors
The idea of color matching can be challenging to even the stylish but there are colors that should be included to your work wardrobe. The possible tie colors you mostly find at work places are usually basic common colors. Dark shades are the common staples for work. Remember, the tie is a complimenting accessory for your outfit so any color that comes out as too eye-catchy would most likely be used more for social events than for work. Depending on your work environment, you might be able to use more or less of bold colors. Taking into consideration basic color coordination can come in handy as well by comparing your outfit to a color wheel to be sure you are not committing any color flaws. The color wheel present a visual color representation of color shades, sectioning similar, complementary and contrasting colors of each shade.
Similar colors
Similar colors are colors that are next to each other. They are close colors to each other and when colors are close, it is easy to choose one of the colors and accessorize using the neighboring colors.
Complementary colors
Complementary colors are colors that are opposite each other. These colors are usually the hardest colors to pair together and even when they complement each other, pairing them at a go can come out as overpowering.
Contrasting colors
Contrasting colors have three colors in-between them. Pairing together these colors involves combining one of them in a darker tone.
Plain black or white ties are a no-no for work and they are best reserved for formal or somber occasions. A rule of thumb for color matching is to highlight one bold color which could either be your tie, shirt or suit. You can pair up ties in the same color shade as your shirt provided it is darker. An example could be pairing a navy blue tie with a blue shirt provided the shirt comes in a lighter shade of blue. So a loose
guide is that your tie should be darker than your shirt so that attention can be drawn to your chest and a lighter shade of tie will be an obvious pick for a darker shirt. Having a basic understanding of the color wheel is a great way to help you match colors. Also, having an idea of complementary and contrasting colors will make matching ties on outfit a piece of cake.
Choice of fabric
Your choice of work ties is not only dependent on color. You must consider the fabric to help you create a contemporary collection. The texture of a tie is an important way to communicate the choice of event it can grace. Silk ties tend to be made for formal business environment while textured fabrics are best for business-casual events. Silk ties are mostly appropriate for work because of its elegance. The kind of tie you wear especially to work communicates a lot about you. They voice your professionalism and class so, it is important to invest in quality as a tie is most likely always the first thing people will notice on your outfit. Investing in quality doesn’t mean it has to be expensive or a novelty collection but it just have to be simply tasteful.
Choice of pattern
Small consistent and evenly spaced patterns are commonly considered to be business ties over bold designs which are best for casual events. So for the most part, wearing a bold necktie to work can be a bit out of place. Patterns generally add dimension to your outfit provided it is well paired up with your outfit. A rule of thumb for pairing patterns is to wear just one loud element hence, a patterned subtle shirt can be matched with a patterned tie but, matching up a patterned tie, shirt and suit can be overwhelming. Avoid matching patterned ties to pocket square instead, aim for a complementary look over a perfect match. Popular patterns great for work includes spots, foulards and stripes which are the most popular pick for work. Wearing a bold colored tie with delicate patterns can add personality to your work outfit whilst maintaining professionalism. The key here is subtle because choosing an all design pattern is less professional.
Consider size
Size is a key consideration in selecting work ties. The width of your tie should and must match the width of your suit’s lapel which helps in complementing your body type. Wide ties can make your frame appear slighter while thin ties can make your frame appear wider. Remember to always choose a necktie that fits your face, shape and shirt collar.
How to wear a necktie
Follow these tips to feel confident next time you are adding a tie to your outfit:
⦁ Fit: The length of your tie should hit your belt buckle and lay flat on the placket of your shirt and the width of your shirt collar, tie and lapel should be the same.
⦁ Consider formality: Textured ties are appropriate for casual looks and events while smoother ties are great for formal occasions. Solid ties are usually best fits for professional environments
⦁ Knot types: Different knot types are appropriate for different occasions. A rule of thumb is that achieving classic tie knots ranging from formal to casual goes from full Windsor knot to half and then to four-in-hand knot. You can learn and practice knotting the different types in front of a mirror.
⦁ Visibility: It is important to button the ends of your collar above your tie when wearing a button-down shirt for disguise. You may choose to unbutton the top button of your shirt collar if it does not look untidy.
As always, your discretion is highly recommended when it comes to selecting the right picks for work. It is always best to put into consideration your work environment and what is obtainable there to avoid a disaster.
Let me know in the comment section how this worked out for you.