A well tied-tie

A tailored suit is certainly one of those timeless looks that will never lose its respect. But let’s give credit where credit is due – the necktie. This is the one singular detail that modern male fashion revolves around. It serves as a true centerpiece of any suit – a focal point, if you will.

As I’m sure you have experienced, there are a plethora of options when it comes to selecting the perfect necktie. The importance of picking the proper shape, design and material cannot be exaggerated. It can be a painstaking and grueling process until it becomes like second nature to you – as it will in time.

There are several details to examine when searching for the perfect necktie. Let’s break it down step-by-step to make the process more approachable.

We can all agree this is where our personal preferences show the most. But you need to reign it in a little bit. Don’t go straight for the flashiest one or the humorous one with cartoon ducks plastered all over it. No, no, no. You need to do your research. Understand the colors of your skin tone and of your existing wardrobe. If you aren’t sure of these details yet, you are always safe choosing a navy colored tie. Whether it’s busy or simple, navy will typically work will with any suit/ shirt combination.

Neckties come in a variety of shapes – slim to wide and everything in between. When determining which shape is best for you, choose one that fits your body type, style and shirt collar. For instance, if you are sporting a small collar, try choosing a slim tie. It’s a combination that looks thought-out and purposeful.

There’s one standard when it comes to necktie length and it’s been that way for quite awhile. Your tie should touch your waistband or belt buckle – not below and definitely not above. However, some more casual ties, like square-end ties, can be considered the exception to the rule. These styles can sit slightly higher than the waistband.

The material of the necktie you choose says a lot about the type of event or meeting you’re going into. For more formal occasions and business meetings, stick to the classic silk option. Honestly, if it’s not silk, it’s more informal. Linen and cotton are mostly for casual summer looks. Wool and cashmere can be used for more casual business meetings or lunches. One rule of thumb, always stick to genuine fabrics. Processed, mass-produced materials like polyester don’t send the right message and, simply put, don’t look as good.

Most men know the basic way to tie a necktie. But there is a lot of originality to be expressed through variations of necktie knot arrangements. As a stylish, well-dressed man, you should know several different methods to tie your necktie. There are so many intricate variations that you could feature a new knot each day of the week. Just make sure not to go overboard, you should always let the tie speak for itself in the end.