When it comes to building a stylish outfit that shows off your personality, there’s one accessory that is crucial: the necktie. The common tie has a royal history, coming from Croatia as the cravat and ascending to the top fashion tier for French princes during the 1600s. It evolved into what you see displayed today in formal wear, modern suits and casual hipster fashion.

Should You Wear A Tie?

CCO_charcoal tie Ties can be worn out of necessity, as part of a uniform or as a stylish element in your ensemble. So if a tie is a possibility for your chosen clothing, by all means, you should wear a tie. Ties look great and give you a little something extra (a bit of flare, a pop of color, a splash of pattern), especially these days when ties are not as common as they once were.

If you have a collared shirt, why not add a tie for a touch of sophistication or hip style. Ties are appropriate for almost any occasion, from a simple meet-up with the boys after work to a fancy first date. That being said, if you’re wearing a t-shirt, the tie is not necessary – unless you're going for a semi-punk rock look.

How To Choose A Tie

CCO_red tieChoosing a tie is simple: Select a pattern or color that you enjoy and put that tie on. Done. Granted, in most of polite society, you will have to match your tie with a jacket or at least make sure the two items are not in direct color conflict. If you aren’t wearing a suit or a sport jacket, then you can let your tie guide your ensemble.

Playing it safe? Black is the go-to color for formal occasions: business meetings, funerals, weddings and anything where you are reasonably expected to dress up. Dark colors such as navy or charcoal will also be widely usable for many different events. For a fun addition to an ensemble choose a pattern, a thin tie or a colorful tie. You’ll definitely want a plethora of ties to choose from in your wardrobe, so you can choose from a wide array of looks each morning.

How To Wear A Tie

CCO_Tayion_silver_tieKeep it proportional! A tie should be worn from neck to belt, with the thickness depending on your style. If you have a shorter frame, you may need to tie a larger knot to keep the tie above the belt. A conventional tie tends to run wider than youthful, hipper neckties. Fashion trends can change depending on the year; many men have tried to wear neckties too long or too short or even loosely, but these trends are often left behind. It is best to wear a tie in the conventional way and make your color or pattern choice be the thing that stands out.

Neckties run the gamut from simple (and easy to wear) solids to bold patterns, which are not for the faint of heart or fashion newbies. Don’t shrink away from  a bold choice. When you wear a tie confidently, it seems that others will be less inclined to notice if it isn’t exactly perfect. Wear your confidence on your sleeve, or your neck, as is the case with a fashionable tie.