Building a Quality Neck Wear Collection

But where does a man begin? Stores and websites offer every type of neck tie, from skinny ties to bowties to striped ties to pink ties. Beyond the vast array of styles, prices also range from discount neckties under $10 to luxury neckwear upwards of $200. It’s easy to get overwhelmed, but a few simple tips can get a man on the road to a lifetime of tie-wearing success.

Basic Solid Ties

Flashy orange or checkered purple neckwear may be tempting, and they have their time and place. However, it is best to begin with basic solid ties. Many fashion experts advise wearing a tie that is darker than one’s shirt, so black ties, dark blue ties, or various shades of red ties are the perfect place to start. These solid neckties are very versatile, so they can be paired with several different shirts and suits. Lime green neck wear may catch attention, but that might not be a good thing for someone with a small tie collection. Wearing an unusually colored tie twice in one week may be noticeable, but black and blue neckwear provide a professional look while remaining relatively inconspicuous. These starter ties should be viewed as a wardrobe investment, so choose high quality ties that will withstand the test of time. Look for fabric that feels smooth to the touch, and make sure the fabric is heavy and thick enough to drape nicely and hold a strong knot shape. Ties of a moderate width, about 3.25’, are unlikely to go out of style, while the slim tie trend may pass. These basic neck ties will provide the foundation for a collection of good ties.

Adding Colors and Patterns

Once a man has a few solid neckties that can be used in most situations, variations can be added. Solid silver or purple neck wear could add variety while maintaining some versatility. Subtle striped or dotted ties that coordinate with the wardrobe also make more of a statement without running the risk of going out of style next season. Typically, a solid tie of any color should provide contrast with the shirt. A solid blue shirt with a salmon stripe could easily be paired with salmon neckwear, or perhaps a grey tie with small salmon dots or other pattern. For those gradually building a professional wardrobe, it may be wise to keep purchases within a few color families for matching purposes. At this point, versatility should still be a consideration—a gold tie that only matches one shirt won’t get very much mileage and won’t be much help as an option on a daily basis. Experimenting with different forms of neckwear, such as the bowtie or the skinny tie, could also come in at this point. Either of these pieces in a versatile color could add variety to the day-to-day wardrobe.

Adding Flair

When the tie collection provides enough practical choices for everyday wear, the necktie wearer can consider adding some trendy or unique neckwear.  When purchasing these pieces, quality should be considered, but since they may not be worn as long as the timeless ties, they needn’t be seen as a major investment. As long as the craftsmanship is passable, the fabric doesn’t wrinkle too easily, and the knot isn’t conspicuously unshapely, these relatively cheap ties will serve their purpose for the few years they are in style. More dramatic patterns, such as paisley ties or ties with dramatic stripes, dots, plaids, or florals, would come in at this stage. A quick look online demonstrates the fun that can be had with neck wear, as you can find ties of every color and pattern, including many that make a strong statement. As mentioned earlier, skinny ties, about 2-2.5 “ wide, are indeed in fashion, and can create a modern look when paired with a more modern suit. Bowties are back as well, and they are available in almost every striped, dotted, or plaid option imaginable.  Depending on the occasion, then, the complete neckwear collection will give a man the option of looking trendy, professional, subtle, or bold, all in the choice of a tie.