Tips, Tricks, Dos and Don'ts

Alternate Patterns: Be sure to alternate your tie and shirt patterns. If the stripes on your shirt are vertical, choose a tie that has diagonal stripes for a distinct fashionable look. And while pocket square-neck tie combos are sometimes sold together, consider wearing a pocket square (handkerchief) that does not match your tie. A pocket square that brings out the colors and patterns of the tie and suit works best will work best with your ensemble without look too arranged.

Storage: 'When storing your ties, be sure to roll the tie instead of letting them hang loosely in the closet. Gravity will most likely ruin the fabric.

Sizing: Invest in a tailor. Your slacks and sleeves should never hang or drag. Many men do not wear their proper shirt size. The sleeve line (where the arm and shoulder connect) should be at the top of the shoulder'not at the side of the arm.

Age Appropriate: Choose ties that are the age of your personality rather than your actual age. However, if you are an older gentleman you should consider traditional widths and lengths. Younger men can be more experimental with their tie widths (skinny, normal, wide, long, short).

Don'ts: Unless you are apart of the royal parliament, refrain from Windsor knots. A thick full Windsor knot will make you look pretentious. The Windsor knot is best worn for very formal occasions, and looks best with a spread collar. A spread collar is big and wide enough to accommodate the broad look of the Windsor knot. Consider the four in hand or half Windsor knot for an assertive look that works well with business and business casual apparel.

Dos: If you're seeking a new look, or if you just want to learn how to tie your tie in a different way search the internet for how to videos. These tutorials will open doors for you! It's so easy to get caught in a fashion rut and wear what we've always worn. A necktie tutorial will provide steps for an updated look.

Go Casual: While ties are generally worn for dressier occasions, you can still wear neckties with your semi-casual attire. Avoid looking sloppy by wearing a sports coat instead of a suit coat. The two are two different types of clothing. A suit coat is worn as part of a pantsuit. A sports coat is tailored and can be paired with clean cut jeans, khaki pants, and slacks. Casual attire looks better with the top button of your dress shirt left unbuttoned, and the tie loosely tied. Never wear a suit coat without its matching slacks.

Robert Talbott ties: high quality designer ties

Ralph Lauren: American preppy ties

Burberry ties: English designer ties

Printed ties: a great way to show off your style

Bow ties: daring, bold look

Solid ties: simple solid ties complement any look

Skinny ties: vintage look with modern appeal

Wide ties: Unless you're going for the Bozo the Clown look, wear a jacket with this tie

Pocket squares: handkerchiefs

Paul Fredrick Dress shirts

Paul Fredrick Ties

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