How to Match a Shirt With a Tie

“Are ties in fashion?” This question, posed by Imran Amed, Founder and CEO of the influential industry news site, Business of Fashion, emerged in his newsletter after observing numerous neckties on and around the runways of Milan Fashion Week.

Although, as Mr. Amed also concludes, the tie will probably never return as a widespread—pun intended—garment for everyday use by the general public, it's still an excellent way to inject a bit of individuality into your look. Or, as Mr. Amed elegantly puts it, 'it's actually quite punk to just casually wear a tie these days.'

If it’s been a while since you’ve coordinated a shirt and tie and need a refresher, or simply would like to learn how to how to tie a tie, our Creative Lead, Richard Andersson, has some excellent tips for you.

Understanding Color and Patterns

When matching shirts with ties, the first consideration should be color. We favor an ensemble that carries a unifying theme — often referred to as the 'red thread' — throughout the color scheme. In this example, we've combined several patterns, which makes it crucial to limit the palette to two or three colors, such as blue and white. Using more colors with this variety of patterns could result in an overwhelming effect. By sticking to just two colors, the 'red thread' remains visible and brings cohesion to the look, despite the diversity of patterns.

An important consideration when styling different patterns is their scale. In our example, we've chosen a shirt with a small houndstooth pattern, paired with a tie that features a larger medallion design. We've complemented this with a pocket square in blue and white, showcasing an even larger Paisley pattern. Finally, the pinstripe suit ties the ensemble together, creating a harmonious balance of patterns.

Continuing with the principle, maintaining two to three colors in the palette is what binds the look together. Then, you're free to experiment with patterns. Ensure you use varying scales; for instance, a tie with the same pattern scale as the shirt would blend in too much, while a differing scale makes it stand out. Now, the tie pops.

Working with Textures

The next thing to consider – and equally important as colors and patterns – is texture.

This ensemble may appear understated when styled in solid colors, but a closer look reveals a checked shirt with a tonal three-dimensional texture matched with a heavy grenadine tie. These textures alone create an intriguing look. Completing it with a heavier Herringbone jacket adds yet another layer, resulting in a clean, tonal ensemble that is dynamic in its textural interplay.

The Right Tie for The right Occasion

When selecting a shirt and tie, the occasion is a key consideration; it's essential to ensure your outfit suits the event you're attending. Here are some basic guidelines:

• For formal events, such as weddings or job interviews, opt for a solid-color shirt paired with a conservative tie

• For a casual event, such as a night out with friends, feel free to have a bit more fun with your tie selection. A common question we encounter is, 'Can I wear a tie with denim?' and the answer is definitely yes. The key is choosing the appropriate tie. A heavier fabric, like a knit tie, works well. Stripes are particularly complementary with denim, whether horizontal or on a classic flannel tie with diagonal stripes.

Keep in mind these tips when reintegrating ties into your fashion repertoire.