How to Match a Tie and Shirt

Dressing for success may sound like a tired cliché, but choosing a professional wardrobe is no laughing matter. Well-dressed workers receive more promotional opportunities and make a better impression on colleagues and clients. Learning to match a tie and dress shirt is perhaps one of the most fundamental wardrobe keys. Fortunately, learning to master the art of the tie is a challenge anyone can master.

Before you can match a tie to your dress shirt, you need to purchase a shirt that complements your frame. Ideally, you should visit a department store or men's boutique to work with a professional tailor who can help you choose a shirt with the right measurements. Once you have a comfortable dress shirt, you can match a tie with the right proportions.

Not only is it essential to choose apparel items that fit well, but you also need to select a tie and shirt that are appropriate for the weather. Unfortunately, male shoppers face an uphill battle, as there are fewer formal options for men. Opt for clothing in lighter textiles that provide a breathable alternative to stuffy traditional fabrics. You should also navigate your color selections carefully. In more casual offices, you can wear a tie with color or flair, but traditional industries like finance and law often demand a stricter dress code.

In terms of the tie itself, you need to select an accessory with the right width and length. An average-sized adult man should generally wear a tie that measures at least three inches in width. If you prefer a more modern approach, select a skinnier tie that complements the cut of your suit. If you have a smaller or larger build, adjust the measurements accordingly. Additionally, your tie should fall at the beltline of your pants. Men with small torsos need to look to specialty retailers to find a tie that fits.

Finally, be certain to add your own mark when you match a tie to your shirt. Some men eschew traditional ties altogether and instead elect to wear bow ties. Others pair pocket squares with their ties and shirts for an extra dash of pizazz. Regardless of which look appeals most to you, developing a classic personal style allows you to make a strong impression in your workplace.

While it often feels overwhelming to choose the right formal wear ensemble, the modern man needs to address this dilemma head on. Not only does an attractive suit and tie prove essential in the workplace, but this combination is also appropriate for meetings, special events and upscale social gatherings you attend. Fortunately, by studying the basics, you are bound to learn how to match a tie to any shirt in your closet.

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