The tie has always signified the gentleman. Ever since formal wear became a major industry, tie makers have consistently strived to bring out better and more luxurious ties. This means that the variety of ties that are on offer can be mind boggling, and not a little intimidating. Assuming you care about your appearance and have bought a shirt and suit that conveys this, how can you choose a tie with confidence?

When you buy a tie, unless you have a solid relationship with the manufacturer, it is always preferable to go and see the tie in the shop. This is because the chances of choosing a good quality tie for yourself depend heavily on you seeing and touching the tie.

Once you have cornered the tie you want and it’s just you and it, its time to get physical. Touch it, noting the texture as you do. A quality tie will feel completely smooth to the touch. It is easy to see what this means when you handle a cheap tie, which will feel, at best, rather rough in places. There is a good chance a quality tie is there in your hands if you can honestly say it feels completely smooth.

Next, and perhaps most importantly when it comes to spotting quality workmanship, find out how many pieces the tie is made of. If you have a quality tie in front of you, you should be able to tell immediately if the tie is crafted from three pieces or two. The three piece ties are the quality ties. And that’s because it’s all about the lining.

As regards the lining, it should stretch to the tips. If it doesn’t, it isn’t the best quality tie you can get. A good lining gives the tie shape and weight, which makes it look better when it is resting against your torso. While you’re at it, make sure that the content of the lining is mostly wool. This is a sure-fire sign of quality.

Then take the tie and sling it over your hands. This is a critical moment. If the tie twists or ruckles in any way as it goes over your hands, it is an inferior quality tie. If it flows smoothly, with the narrow point of the tie fitting neatly behind the broad end, then you have found a tie that is worth investing money in.

When it comes to selecting colours and pattremns, it is mostly about the shirt you are going to wear. With colours, you really cannot go wrong with a good pale blue shirt, and this complements most ties. One movement that has really taken off in recent years is that of the monochrome look, where the shirt and they are of the same colour, but generally different shades. This is easy to perfect, and creates a cool, sleek look.

When it comes to patterns, don’t go crazy. A nicely checked shirt that borders on the ‘almost can’t see those checks’ will be complemented by a tie that has stringer checks. And this is the rule for most patterned ties. Pair them with subtle shirts, and you should find it easy to create a good look.

Author Bio: Dave Matthews is a freelance copywriter. He writes articles for a range of interests, causes and businesses – in this case, designer men’s clothing.

Category: Advice
Keywords: mens, clothes, clothing, fashion