How To Wear a Tie
A tie can add a touch of sleek sophistication to an outfit or it can be used to achieve a more formal look. Depending on the type of tie and what it is paired with, you can achieve a number of different looks. This tip talks about some of the different things you should consider when wearing a tie.
Picking The Right Shirt
The collar of a dress shirt plays a big role in determining the formality of the shirt and helps you to determine what tie and knot will work best. There are two basic collar types, the Point Collar and the more formal Spread Collar.
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· The Point Collar is characterized by the points of each collar being close together. Standard Point Collars usually have an angle of about 60 degrees, but with some Point Collars the angle can be less. |
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· The Spread Collar (Cut Away) is a more formal look characterized by the points of each collar being farther apart. Standard Spread collars have a 90 degree angle, but the angles may vary. |
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The Right Tie Width
The classic width of a tie is about 3.5”; this width works well for any occasion, however, using different tie widths can help you achieve different looks.
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· Skinny ties give a sleeker more casual look and work great with a button down shirt and jeans or a slim suit with skinny lapels. These ties go best with a short Point Collar and a smaller knot. · Wide ties are a bit more formal and give off a more professional look. A wide tie goes well with any knot, works great for interviews and should be worn with a proportionate collar length and spread. |
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Choose The Right knot
The last piece to achieving your look is the knot. There are several different ways to tie a tie and each knot gives a different look. We will focus on three of the most common knots. To see other knots and how to tie them, read Brooks Brothers tip on How to Tie a Tie.
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· The Windsor Knot gives a look of authority and power. It is a wide triangular knot that is usually worn in business or for formal occasions. This type of knot looks best with a spread collar and a slightly wider tie made from light to medium fabrics. |
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· The Half Windsor is a smaller triangle shaped knot that is less formal and more versatile than The Windsor knot. It can be worn for any occasion and works best with a standard point or spread collar and a slightly wider tie made from light to medium fabrics. |
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· Four-in Hand (Simple Knot) is the most versatile and widely used knot. This method produces a narrow, asymmetric knot that is appropriate for all occasions. It works well with wide or skinny ties and can be worn with a standard Point or Spread collar. |
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There really are no rules when it comes to your personal style, you can wear whatever makes you happy. But at least knowing the different knots, shirts, and tie types will ensure you are making a conscious decision to “color outside the lines” instead of doing it by accident.
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