9 Best Ties for Men: Upgrade Your Style with These Top Picks
Whether you’re suiting up for a job interview, a wedding, or a night out, the right tie can make all the difference. Ties are more than just accessories; they’re statements of style and personality. With countless options available, finding the perfect tie can feel overwhelming.
This guide narrows down the choices to the 9 best ties for men, ensuring you look sharp and stylish for any occasion. From classic silk to modern knit, these ties will elevate your wardrobe and keep you looking your best.
1. The Classic Silk Tie
Silk ties are timeless, exuding elegance and sophistication. They’re perfect for formal occasions and a staple in every man’s wardrobe.
Benefits of Silk Ties
Silk ties offer several advantages. They’re incredibly smooth, providing a luxurious feel and look. Silk’s natural sheen adds a touch of elegance, making these ties perfect for any formal setting. They’re also durable, resisting wear and tear better than many other fabrics. Silk is hypoallergenic, so it’s ideal for those with sensitive skin. Additionally, silk ties hold knots well, ensuring a consistently neat appearance.
How to Style a Silk Tie
Styling a silk tie is versatile and straightforward. Pair it with a crisp white dress shirt and a tailored suit for a classic, polished look. For a smart-casual vibe, match a patterned silk tie with a blazer and chinos. Choose subtle patterns or solid colors for business settings, and explore bolder patterns for social events. Ensure your tie’s color complements your shirt and suit, creating a cohesive and sophisticated outfit.
2. The Versatile Polyester Tie
Polyester ties are known for their affordability and resilience, making them a practical choice for many. Let’s delve into when to opt for polyester and how to care for these ties.
When to Choose Polyester
Opt for polyester ties when you need a budget-friendly option. They’re perfect for daily wear, thanks to their durability. Polyester holds color well and resists wrinkles, making it ideal for busy professionals. Use polyester ties for casual and semi-formal occasions where you want to look sharp without worrying about wear and tear.
Caring for Polyester Ties
Clean polyester ties with ease by spot cleaning with a damp cloth. For tougher stains, use a gentle hand wash. Avoid dry cleaning, as it can damage the fabric. Store them hanging or rolled to prevent creases. Keep them out of direct sunlight to maintain vibrant colors.
3. The Durable Wool Tie
The wool tie combines texture and durability, making it a stylish choice for various occasions. Wool ties are perfect for colder months, offering warmth and a distinctive look.
Advantages of Wool Ties
- Durability: Wool fibers resist wear and tear, making wool ties long-lasting.
- Warmth: Wool naturally insulates, offering added warmth in colder weather.
- Texture: Wool ties have a unique texture that adds depth and character to your outfit.
- Versatility: These ties work well with different fabrics, including tweed and flannel.
- Winter Events: Ideal for holiday parties, wool ties provide warmth and style.
- Business Meetings: Paired with a suit, a wool tie adds a touch of sophistication suitable for professional settings.
- Casual Gatherings: Wool ties offer a relaxed yet polished look for casual meet-ups or family dinners.
4. The Trendy Knit Tie
The trendy knit tie adds a unique and stylish flair to your wardrobe. It’s perfect for those aiming to look sharp and modern without compromising on comfort.
Popularity of Knit Ties
Knit ties have gained popularity for their textured feel and casual elegance. Celebrities and fashion influencers, like David Beckham and Ryan Gosling, often sport these ties, bringing them into the limelight. Knit ties are versatile, suitable for both professional environments and casual get-togethers. Their distinct, often slimmer design makes them a favorite among young professionals and fashion enthusiasts.
Pairing Knit Ties with Outfits
Pairing knit ties with outfits is simple and rewarding. They excel with casual or smart-casual attire. For example, a knit tie pairs perfectly with a button-down shirt and a blazer, offering a laid-back yet stylish look. Try combining a navy knit tie with a white dress shirt for a classic appearance. For a more relaxed outfit, you can match a knit tie with a cardigan and chinos. The key is to play with textures and colors, allowing the knit tie to be a standout accessory.
5. The Distinctive Bow Tie
Bow ties add a touch of charm to any outfit. They’re perfect for formal occasions and can also make a bold fashion statement.
Types of Bow Ties
Understanding the types of bow ties helps you choose the right style for any event. There are primarily three types:
- Pre-Tied Bow Ties: Pre-tied bow ties are the easiest to use. You don’t need to tie them as they come pre-knotted. They’re best for those new to bow ties or looking for convenience.
- Clip-On Bow Ties: Clip-on bow ties are similar to pre-tied ones but attach with a clip. They’re ideal for young children or anyone seeking an effortless accessory.
- Self-Tie Bow Ties: Self-tie bow ties require you to tie them yourself. They’re often preferred by bow tie connoisseurs for their classic and sophisticated look.
How to Tie a Bow Tie
Tying a bow tie may seem tricky at first, but with practice, it becomes easier. Follow these steps for a perfect knot:
- Position the Bow Tie: Drape the bow tie around your neck with one end slightly longer than the other.
- Cross and Loop: Cross the longer end over the shorter and bring it up through the neck loop.
- Form the Bow Shape: Fold the shorter end horizontally to form half of the bow.
- Wrap and Tuck: Drop the longer end over the front and tuck it behind the folded part.
- Adjust and Tighten: Pull the loops to tighten and adjust as necessary.
Starting with a pre-tied or clip-on bow tie can help you build confidence before mastering the self-tie. Bow ties offer an opportunity to showcase your personality and style, completing your look with distinction.
6. The Elegant Ascot Tie
The ascot tie adds a touch of sophistication and a dash of heritage to any outfit. From its rich history to its proper styling, this guide covers everything you need to know about the elegant ascot tie.
History of the Ascot Tie
Dating back to the 19th century, the ascot tie originated in England. It was commonly worn at the horse races held at the Ascot Racecourse, hence the name. Aristocrats favored ascot ties for their formal attire, often made of luxurious fabrics like silk. The ascot became a staple in men’s formal wear during the Edwardian era and remains a symbol of classic elegance.
How to Wear an Ascot Properly
Wearing an ascot tie correctly is essential to achieving its sophisticated look. Start by placing the ascot around your neck, with one end longer than the other. Cross the longer end over the shorter one, then bring it up through the loop around your neck. Adjust the fabric so that it sits comfortably on your chest, ensuring the ends are even. Pair your ascot with a dress shirt and an open-collared vest or blazer for a refined, polished appearance.
7. The Modern Skinny Tie
The Rise of Skinny Ties
Skinny ties have surged in popularity over recent years, resurging from their 1960s origins. They symbolize modernity and sleek style, becoming a staple in fashion-forward wardrobes. Influenced by pop culture and music icons, skinny ties have been embraced by trendsetters for their ability to add a contemporary touch to any ensemble.
Suit Pairings for Skinny Ties
Pairing a skinny tie with a suit is all about balance. Opt for slim-fit suits to complement the tie’s narrow width. Dark, solid-colored suits work well for formal settings, while lighter or patterned suits can add flair for casual or business-casual occasions. Remember, the right pairings accentuate the modern, sophisticated look you aim to achieve.
8. The Luxurious Seven-fold Tie
What Makes a Seven-Fold Tie Special
A seven-fold tie stands out because of its craftsmanship. Crafted from a single piece of silk, it’s folded seven times to create a thicker, weightier tie without the need for added lining. This meticulous folding process gives the tie its unique structure and luxurious feel. Seven-fold ties are typically hand-stitched, which adds to their exclusivity and durability. This type of tie often features intricate patterns and rich colors due to the high-quality silk used.
Appropriate Occasions for Seven-Fold Ties
Choose a seven-fold tie for upscale events. Ideal for formal occasions like weddings, exclusive parties, or high-level business meetings, this tie adds a touch of sophistication to your outfit. Its luxurious appearance makes it perfect for black-tie events where every detail matters. Pair a seven-fold tie with a well-fitted suit and a crisp dress shirt to exude confidence and style.
9. The Casual Square-End Tie
Square-end ties, with their distinct non-pointed ends, offer a relaxed yet refined look. They’re perfect for adding a touch of individuality to your casual outfits.
Features of Square-End Ties
Square-end ties have a unique straight-cut finish instead of the conventional pointed tip. They’re often made from knit fabrics, which provide texture and a laid-back feel. These ties are usually slimmer, enhancing their casual appearance. They work best with lighter materials like cotton or linen, making them suitable for warmer weather.
Casual Settings for Square-End Ties
Square-end ties shine in casual settings, ideal for business-casual environments or weekend outings. Pair them with a button-down shirt and chinos for a smart-casual look. They also complement a casual blazer perfectly, adding a touch of sophistication without being too formal. Wear them to social gatherings, casual Fridays at the office, or even date nights for a stylish yet relaxed impression.
Conclusion: Selecting the Right Tie for Every Occasion
Choosing the right tie can elevate your outfit and make a lasting impression. Whether you’re dressing up for a formal event or opting for a casual look, there’s a perfect tie for every occasion. From luxurious seven-fold ties to relaxed square-end ties, your options are vast and versatile.
Don’t hesitate to experiment with different styles and materials to find what suits you best. Remember, the right tie not only complements your attire but also reflects your personal style. So go ahead and make your choice with confidence, knowing that the perfect tie will always add that extra touch of sophistication to your ensemble.
