Choosing the Right Necktie
With thousands to select from, it can be difficult to know where to start when choosing the right necktie. From getting the coordination right to knowing what is expectable for a particular occasion, such as a wedding or job interview, there are many pitfalls to avoid.
However there is no need worry, at 1st Choice Cufflinks we have put our experienced heads together to produce a range of useful tips to help you pick the perfect necktie for your requirements. Whether you are wondering what type of material is best or trying to pick out a necktie for a gift, we have tried to provide you with a comprehensive guide that answers all of your questions.
Although we cover a range of points below, the two most important things to remember when selecting a necktie are to make sure it coordinates with the rest of our outfit and that it is appropriate for type of occasion you attending.
Material
Silk, although more expensive, is the most popular type of material due it being able to hold its shape, as well as being lightweight and durable. Woven silk is probably your best option, as it is a bit thicker than other silk.
For a cheaper alternative, there is a wide and impressive range of polyester ties for you to choose from. Although inferior in quality to silk, polyester ties are still made to a high standard and are ideal for everyday use.
Colour
When selecting the colour of your necktie your main concern should be whether it coordinates with the rest of your outfit. You should also take in consideration the type of occasion you are attending. For example, you shouldn’t wear something too bright for a formal occasion.
No matter how nice your tie looks on its own, if it clashes with the rest of your outfit you will stick out like a sore thumb. For the best results, wear a tie that complements but also creates contrast with your shirt (i.e. if you are wearing a light shirt wear a darker tie).
Pattern
You have to be very careful when selecting a patterned necktie, as it is far easier to select something that doesn’t match the rest of your outfit. Not only do you have to take in consideration whether the pattern is suitable, they often have multiple colours and so there is a greater likelihood it will clash with the rest of your attire.
If you are wearing a patterned shirt it is best to stick with a solid necktie to avoid any nasty clashes.
Gift
Novelty neckties seem to be the most popular choice for people who are buying a tie as gift. Usually, it tends to be something humorous or light-hearted for Father’s Day, Christmas or other special occasion.
However if you after something a little more serious and formal, try to keep in mind the following pointers:
1) Age (While a funky and contemporary tie might be a fantastic gift for someone who is twenty-something it probably won’t be appropriate for an older business executive)
2) Occupation (If they are going to be wearing the tie to work, take in consideration whether it is suitable for their workplace and the type of job they do)
3) Style of clothes they usually wear (If they like to wear thin cut suits you might consider buying them a narrow tie)
4) What colours they prefer to wear? (You don’t want to buy them a tie that clashes with their clothes)
5) When will they be most likely to wear the tie? (If they are going to be wearing it for work, is it appropriate and business like?)
Occasion
Whether you are going to a black tie event, wedding or business conference, the type of necktie you choose is largely dictated by the type of occasion you are attending. For more formal occasions it is best to play it safe and stick with something traditional. For example, for a wedding try and match the colours worn by the wedding party or something similar.
Obviously the more informal the occasion is the more you can experiment and try something different. However no matter how creative you feel, you should always make sure your necktie coordinates with the rest of your outfit.
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