Men’s Ties: A Guide to Styles, Knots, and How to Wear Them

A tie is one of the most important accessories in men’s fashion, adding sophistication and personality to both formal and casual outfits. Whether you’re dressing for a business meeting, wedding, or casual outing, the right tie can complete your look. Here’s a comprehensive guide to men’s ties, covering essential styles, fabrics, knots, and how to wear them.

1. Types of men’s ties

Classic necktie

The classic necktie is the most common style, typically worn for formal or business occasions. Available in a variety of widths, colors, and patterns, the necktie is a versatile accessory that can be styled to suit different occasions.

• Style tip: For a modern look, opt for ties that are 2.5 to 3 inches wide. Thinner ties are better for slim-fit suits, while wider ties pair well with traditional suits.

Skinny tie

The skinny tie is narrower than the classic necktie, offering a sleeker, more contemporary look. It’s perfect for men with slimmer builds or for those who want a modern, trendy appearance. Skinny ties are typically 1.5 to 2.5 inches wide.

• Style tip: Pair a skinny tie with a slim-fit suit or dress shirt for a sharp, modern look. Avoid wide lapels, as they can look disproportionate with a skinny tie.

Bow tie

Bow ties are a classic and elegant alternative to neckties, typically worn for formal occasions like black-tie events, weddings, and galas. Available in both pre-tied and self-tied versions, bow ties add a touch of sophistication and charm to any outfit.

• Style tip: Wear a black or white bow tie with a tuxedo for formal events, or choose a patterned bow tie for a more playful, casual look.

Knit tie

Knit ties offer a more casual, textured appearance compared to traditional silk or cotton ties. They are often square-tipped and made from wool, cotton, or silk. Knit ties are perfect for smart-casual outfits, adding a relaxed yet polished touch to your look.

• Style tip: Pair a knit tie with a casual blazer and chinos for a smart-casual weekend look. Stick to solid colors or subtle patterns for versatility.

7-fold tie

The 7-fold tie is a luxurious and high-quality version of the traditional necktie, made from a single piece of fabric folded seven times. It doesn’t require an interlining, giving it a softer drape and a rich, elegant appearance.

• Style tip: A 7-fold tie is perfect for formal or business settings. Pair it with a tailored suit for a sophisticated, high-end look.

Clip-on tie

Clip-on ties are pre-tied ties that attach to the shirt collar with a clip. While convenient, they are generally considered less formal and are often worn by those in uniform or young children. For formal events or business settings, opt for a traditional tie.

• Style tip: Avoid clip-on ties for formal occasions; stick with a self-tied or pre-tied option for a cleaner, more polished look.

Cravat

A cravat is a more formal, old-fashioned accessory that predated the modern necktie. It’s usually worn at weddings or formal events, especially in British and European traditions. Cravats are tied around the neck and tucked into the shirt.

• Style tip: Wear a cravat with a formal suit or morning coat for weddings or other special occasions.

2. Tie fabrics

Silk

Silk is the most common fabric for men’s ties, known for its luxurious feel, subtle sheen, and durability. Silk ties work well for both formal and casual settings, and they come in a wide range of colors and patterns.

• Style tip: Opt for a silk tie in solid colors or subtle patterns for business or formal occasions. Pair with a crisp dress shirt and a well-tailored suit.

Wool

Wool ties are thicker and more textured, making them ideal for colder weather or more casual outfits. They offer a rustic, vintage look and work well with tweed or wool suits.

• Style tip: Pair a wool tie with a tweed blazer or a thick wool coat for a sophisticated winter look.

Cotton

Cotton ties are lightweight and breathable, making them perfect for spring and summer. They have a more casual feel than silk ties and often come in playful patterns like gingham or stripes.

• Style tip: Wear a cotton tie with a light-colored shirt and chinos for a casual summer look.

Linen

Linen ties are perfect for warm-weather events, offering a relaxed, casual vibe. The texture of linen adds depth to your outfit, and these ties work well for outdoor weddings or casual gatherings.

• Style tip: Pair a linen tie with a linen or cotton suit for a breezy summer outfit.

Polyester

Polyester ties are more affordable than silk ties but don’t have the same luxurious feel. They are durable and wrinkle-resistant, making them a practical choice for everyday wear.

• Style tip: Polyester ties are great for casual or workwear settings where durability is a priority. Look for simple designs and colors for versatility.

3. Tie patterns

Solid

Solid ties are timeless and versatile, making them an essential part of any wardrobe. Solid-colored ties work well in formal and business settings, providing a sleek, minimalist look.

• Style tip: Pair a solid tie with a patterned shirt or suit for balance. A navy or black tie is a classic choice for formal events.

Striped

Striped ties are a staple in business and professional settings. Whether diagonal, vertical, or horizontal, stripes add visual interest to an otherwise plain outfit.

• Style tip: Pair a striped tie with a solid dress shirt or suit to keep the look balanced and professional.

Paisley

Paisley ties offer a bold, decorative pattern that can add personality to your outfit. They are ideal for formal events or adding flair to business attire.

• Style tip: Pair a paisley tie with a solid suit and a simple dress shirt to let the tie stand out.

Polka dot

Polka dot ties offer a playful, classic pattern that works well in both casual and formal settings. The key to wearing polka dots is balance—keep the rest of your outfit simple to avoid clashing.

• Style tip: Wear a polka dot tie with a solid dress shirt for a fun yet refined look.

Checked

Checked ties, such as plaid or gingham, provide a bold pattern that works well in casual or smart-casual settings. These ties add a touch of character and are perfect for creative or relaxed environments.

• Style tip: Pair a checked tie with a solid blazer and neutral pants for a balanced look.

4. Tie knots

Four-in-hand knot

The four-in-hand knot is the most popular and easiest to tie. It creates a small, asymmetrical knot that works well with most collars and is perfect for everyday wear.

• Style tip: The four-in-hand knot is versatile and looks great with both casual and formal outfits. Pair it with a button-down shirt and slim-fit tie for a modern look.

Windsor knot

The Windsor knot is larger and more symmetrical than the four-in-hand, offering a bold, structured look. It’s best suited for formal occasions or for men with broader necks.

• Style tip: Pair a Windsor knot with a spread-collar shirt and a wider tie for a powerful, confident look.

Half-Windsor knot

The half-Windsor knot is a smaller, easier version of the full Windsor, offering a more subtle, sleek look. It works well in both business and formal settings.

• Style tip: The half-Windsor is perfect for medium-width ties and works well with both button-down and spread-collar shirts.

Pratt knot

The Pratt knot is a versatile option that falls between the four-in-hand and Windsor in terms of size. It creates a medium-sized knot that works well with most collars and tie widths.

• Style tip: The Pratt knot pairs well with business attire, offering a clean, symmetrical knot that isn’t too bulky.

Bow tie knot

The bow tie knot is tied by hand, and while it may take some practice, it’s essential for formal occasions. It creates a classic, symmetrical bow that adds charm and sophistication.

• Style tip: Pair a self-tied bow tie with a tuxedo or formal suit for black-tie events.

5. How to wear men’s ties

Formal looks

• Outfit idea: Pair a solid silk tie with a tailored black or navy suit and polished Oxfords for a sharp business or formal look.
• Outfit idea: Wear a black bow tie with a classic tuxedo for black-tie events like weddings or galas.

Casual looks

• Outfit idea: Pair a knit tie with a casual blazer, chinos, and loafers for a smart-casual weekend outfit.
• Outfit idea: Wear a cotton or linen tie with a button-down shirt and tailored shorts for a laid-back summer look.

Creative looks

• Outfit idea: Combine a paisley tie with a neutral blazer and trousers for a creative twist on business attire.
• Outfit idea: Wear a checked tie with a denim jacket and chinos for a modern, stylish look.

6. Tie dos and don’ts

Do:

• Match your tie with your outfit: Coordinate your tie with your shirt and suit, ensuring the colors and patterns complement each other.
• Consider the occasion: Wear bold patterns and colors for casual or creative settings, and stick to solid or subtle designs for formal events.
• Tie the appropriate knot: Use larger knots like the Windsor for wide collars, and smaller knots like the four-in-hand for narrow collars.

Don’t:

• Wear a tie that’s too short or too long: The tip of your tie should touch the middle of your belt buckle.
• Mix too many patterns: Avoid clashing patterns by balancing busy ties with solid or subtle shirts and suits.
• Ignore the season: Choose lighter fabrics like cotton and linen for summer, and heavier fabrics like wool and silk for fall and winter.

7. Final thoughts

A well-chosen tie can elevate any outfit, adding a touch of sophistication and personality. By understanding the different types of ties, fabrics, knots, and patterns, you can build a versatile tie collection that suits your style and the occasion. Whether you prefer a classic silk necktie for business or a playful bow tie for formal events, mastering the art of wearing ties is essential for any well-dressed man.