Are you fit this summer? So I’m not talking about literally being physically fit, but that’s always extra bonus points when it comes to sporting fashion, but I mean more of finding the right fit when it comes to sporting ties. There is something to be said about a great tie. A tie can be one of the trickiest elements in a man’s wardrobe, however if done right it can make a powerful statement. From Wall Street to GQ Magazine to fashion blogs, ties are globally associated with men, style, and status. If you haven’t noticed the tie is the one thing that can make or break a look. Some men have no clue when it comes to choosing a tie. Just take a quick survey around your workplace, and I’m sure you can find one or two victims of loud wall paper print ties, super skinny ties, or even ties that fall below the stomach. No longer do you have to second guess yourself when choosing a tie, I have outlined a style guide to get you in tip top shape when it comes to sporting the perfect tie.
FIT TIP #1 KNOW THE LENGTH & WIDTH STANDARDS
Whether you're six feet four or five feet six, the length of the tie does matter. Be prepared to know the standard measurements of the modern tie before buying. Make sure that the tip of any modern tie should hit right at your beltline, not any lower. The width of the tie matters as well. It’s ok to go for a narrow tie, but not super skinny tie. As a rule of thumb, the modern tie measures around two and a quarter to two and three-quarter inches at it’s widest point.
FIT TIP #2 FABRIC MATTERS
Ties come in a variety of materials and textures. It’s important that you are wearing the right material and texture for the right occasion. The best ties are made out of natural materials like silk, wool, and cashmere. Silk ties have a more polished look and work best when you need a tie for evening attire, whereas polyester or cotton blend ties are usually more durable and can hold out in a repeated wear such daily wear to the office.
FIT TIP #3 EVALUATE THE STRUCTURE OF THE TIE
It’s important that the tie you purchase is able to hang correctly from your neck. To ensure there are no defects within the construction, hold the tie up by the narrow end, and make sure it doesn’t twist and turn. If it does, that means the material wasn’t cut properly and you have a tie that won’t hang correctly from your neck. The next thing to check for is symmetry within the design, and you do this by laying a tie flat on a table to see if one side is longer than the other. Finally, the last sign to check for is if there are any loose threads or runs in the material.
FIT TIP #4 KEEP IT SOLID
Want some great solid advice? When in doubt, keep your tie solid. Every man should start with a few good solid color ties in their wardrobes. Of course, who doesn’t love a vibrantly polka dot, stripe, or club tie. But stay clear of paisleys, loud wallpaper prints, and yes even cartoon characters! These are often conversation pieces, rather than ties that anchor an outfit. Remember when you are assembling your suit and tie narrative, it’s a safe bet to reach for solid or subtly patterned tie. Keep in mind for starters, you should own a solid navy, burgundy, or gray tie in your everyday wardrobe.
FIT TIP #5 KNOT WISELY
Once you have chosen your desired tie, wearing a tie boils down to the famous knot. Your knot shouldn't resemble a huge triangle. You really need to know only one knot—the four-in-hand. Neither too big nor too small nor too perfectly triangular it the quintessential knot to go with. This knot is asymmetrical so it does not convey an overly formal appearance and as a result of it’s smaller and somewhat elongated shape, it goes with shirts that have narrow spread collars or button down collars. The four-in-hand knot typically goes best with skinny or medium width ties. This knot is suited best for dressy occasions that are not too formal, such as parties or nights out on the town. Learn this knot, master it, and never forget, so you will be on your way to sporting the perfect tie all summer!
Here are recommended sites to find the perfect tie:
http://www.thetiebar.com/
http://www.ties.com/
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