Choosing a Necktie: What You Should Know

Choosing a Necktie: What You Should Know

The right necktie can make or break the appearance of a men's suit. It enhances the overall look to make it look more uniform and symmetrical, which should be your primary goal when dressing in a suit. Unfortunately, many guys are confused when it comes to neckties. With such a vast array of neckties ranging in size, shape, fabric and style, how do you know which one to choose?

Silk

Men's neckties are available in a wide range of fabrics, including cotton, synthetic, imitation silk, and genuine silk. While many fabrics attempt to mimic the look and feel of silk, nothing compares to the real thing, which is why it's the recommended choice.  Silk has roots dating back to more than 5,000 years ago. Made from cocoons of silk warms, it's an ultra-soft and thin -- yet surprisingly strong -- fabric that's perfect for neckties. Furthermore, it has a natural shiny characteristic that reflects light, adding another unique element to neckties. The bottom line is that you can't go wrong with a genuine silk necktie.

What About The Size?

Pay close attention to size when choosing a men's necktie. Wearing one that's too long or too short will look silly, throwing off your entire appearance. So, what size necktie should you wear? A good rule of thumb is to choose a necktie that just barely reaches the bottom of your belt, and that measures about 2.25-4 inches wide. This is the de-facto standard for men's neckties, allowing for a simple yet refined appearance.

Color Matters

Neckties are available in just about every color under the rainbow, and then some. Rather than grabbing a black necktie and calling it a day, think about the other garments and accessories you'll be wearing with it and choose a color to match. Your necktie should contrast against the color of your shirt; otherwise, the two items will blend together (and not in a good way!). I recommend picking up several different neckties in a variety of colors, as this will give you greater flexibility when choosing your shirt and suit jacket.

Clip-On or Traditional?

If you struggle when it comes to tying a necktie, you may want to choose a clip-on tie instead. There are plenty of stylish clip-ons that look almost identical to traditional ties. As long as neither you nor anyone can tell the difference, there's nothing wrong with wearing a clip-on tie.