When you think of a professional or a successful man, you definitely think of one thing: A well-tailored suit. What's the central fixture of that suit?
The tie.
While it's become more acceptable to go without it on most occasions, the tie is still the staple of the formal man – whether the man attending a job interview, a business meeting, or a presentation. Its importance cannot be understated.
Men's ties are essential.
That's the topic of today, gentlemen. I'm telling you about the ONLY 5 ties you need to own… and 3 to avoid at all costs.
1. The Classic – Solid Ties
If you've followed my content for a while, then you know I'm all about the interchangeable wardrobe. The best way to compliment that collection is by going with a solid tie. This gives you the maximum amount of options for the most outfits.
You could dress them up, but you could also dress them down. You can wear them to an interview or to Thanksgiving dinner. Try for classic colors – we're talking navy, green, purple, or red.
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2. Small, Muted Patterns
A tie with a subtle pattern is a small step below a solid men's tie. It can still be deemed worthy of business-formal, but not quite ultra-formal. Still, you can get away with it on most occasions.
There are a few patterns to go for on a second tie. A classic is a polka-dot pattern. Otherwise, you can go to a foulard. Avoid excess of colors and allow for no more than three on the tie. In fact, I'd recommend having the colors be as muted as possible.
3. Another Solid Tie
Yes, another one. Why do I say this? It's all about building upon the interchangeable wardrobe once again. Just like how I advocate for white and light blue shirts, so to do I recommend two solid men's ties.
You can't go wrong with solid ties.
The color choice is simple: A different one from your first tie.
4. A Conservative Tie You Resonate With
With three ties in your arsenal, it's time to think outside the interchangeable box for a second. By that, I mean it's time for you to pick something you identify with – but that also falls within a modest category.
So, which men's ties count toward this? If you value military heritage, then how about going with a regimental striped tie? If you're in college and you're proud of your school, find one in your university colors. Thinking of going a little wild? Hunt down something in paisley.
5. A Fun Tie
By fun, I mean something a little more wacky and aggressive. They can be big polka dots or a bold geometric pattern.
Hell, I love knitted ties for this. They are the most casual category of tie without a doubt (don't wear them to work), but they're great for adding texture to your outfit while still showing your adherence to elegance.
How To Spot A High Quality Tie
Ok, we've gone over the road map for your first five ties. Now, we need a quick overview of just HOW to spot a quality tie when you go shopping. It's not as simple as hitting up your local Target and getting the first thing on the rack. Pay attention, gents.
The Material
For men's ties, you need to hunt down 100% silk. This is widely considered to be THE material for higher-end ties. It's soft and gives your whole outfit a much sleeker look.
Synthetics are cheaper, yes, but they're not worth it. Synthetic fabrics will not last you nearly as long, and they're far more likely to break down.
Construction
When you lay the blade (the larger end of the tie) down on the palm of your hand, the tie should simply lay flat on your palm. We're talking no crumpling, no stiffness. It should conform like water.
Look at the gusset – the part of the tie that joins the tail and the blade. Quality ties will have a reinforcement built in to keep it as durable as possible.
A simple detail on the back of the tie toward the larger end is the bar tack. This simply grants added protection to the seam.
Finally, check if there's a slip stitch. You have to dig a little into the end of the tie, but you'll find a thread that you can essentially pull. With every tug, you'll see the tie scrunch up – but it should fall back into place once you let go. This essentially helps the tie keep its elasticity.
All of these things are signs you've got a high-quality tie in your hands.
Gents, there you have it – the perfect and quick guide to get started on your tie collection. Remember to prioritize quality over everything else – that way those five ties last you forever.
Click below to watch the video – Tying A Necktie Ultimate Guide (How To Tie A Tie)
The post The ONLY 5 Men’s Ties You Need To Own appeared first on Real Men Real Style.