How to pick the perfect tie

Finding the right necktie can often be the secret to giving your formal wear that definitive edge.

Earn your stripes

Striped ties are evergreen neckwears that never go out of vogue. A striped tie screams confidence and elegance. Have a business meeting where you need to score big? Go for this.

Do it right

"Don't forget to consider your shape before buying your neckwear. If you are built on the heavier side or have a round face, avoid horizontal stripes. Vertical ones would be your best bet," says Bengaluru-based celebrity stylist Prasad Bidapa. If you are lanky and have a thin face, opt for horizontal designs.

Check mate

If you fancy a check tie, it's crucial for you to learn the art of mixing this pattern with your shirt.

Do it right

"Though patterns can be mixed, the shirt and check tie patterns should always differ in scale," says designer Komal Sood. A shirt with large checks looks best with a tie that has either smaller checks or thin stripes and vice versa. "Avoid patterns of similar size as they will compete with each other for attention," adds Sood.

Slim down

Skinny ties are known to lift age off your face, making you look younger and flamboyant. Next time you're on a date, try this. Just don't wear it for your appraisal meeting.

Get it right

"If you don't like experimenting much with your look, then opt for a plain tie in the same tone as your shirt, but in a deeper shade," says Mumbai-based designer Nikhil Thampi. If you are tall and thin then skinny ties will look best on you. But if you are short and stocky or overweight, stay away from this variety.

Silk route

Silk ties are perfect for virtually any occasion. They belong as much in the boardroom as they do in a wedding ceremony. "Satin silk ties are a sign of quality," says Bidapa.

Do it right

As these are mostly worn with formal attires, take care that you do not settle for something really loud. When it comes to selecting patterns, it's essential to choose one that complements your outfi t. If you plan to wear a solid shirt then go for a printed tie. "Polka dots in sober colours can look great. Discreet paisley or muted prints also work," says Bidapa. The tie can be worn tucked inside a cotton cardigan for a relaxed, scholarly look.

Think texture

Fabrics such as linen, wool and cashmere have changed the perception about ties being part of boring formals. These prep up your look in a jiffy and also add tactile contrast to your shirt.

Co-ordination

"These ties serve to make a style statement for the younger generation," says Thampi, "It provides ample scope for experimentation in terms of colours." But before choosing a colour, remember, earth tones clash with dark complexions, bold ones exaggerate fair complexion and muted hues look washed out against tan complexions. If you have wheatish skin, go for reds, blues, deep greens and olive. "The tie needn't match with the shirt rather you can try a contrast colour," suggests Thampi.

Source: How to pick the perfect tie