Let's be honest. Trying to match your dress shirt and tie can be a daunting task. You don't want to look like a fashion disaster, but you also don't want to spend hours trying to coordinate your outfit. Such a headache, right? Fortunately, this is where we come in. We've put together the best tips to help you find the perfect dress shirt and tie combos for any event. Whether you're heading to a wedding, work, or a night out with friends, this guide has you covered.
Common Tie Shapes
Now that we've covered the basics, let's look at some of the most common tie styles and shapes.
Cravat: A wider tie often made from silk or satin, this one's a bit more formal than the Four-in-Hand, so it's a great option for weddings or celebratory occasions. You could also consider a matching pocket square for a more consistent look.
Four-in-Hand Necktie: You've probably seen this one around a lot. It's a classic, long, narrow tie versatile enough for any occasion, from business meetings to dates.
Seven Fold Tie: This one's a tad bit more upscale. It's made from a single piece of silk folded seven times, giving it a luxurious look and feel - an excellent choice for formal events.
Skinny Necktie: As the name suggests, it's slim and narrow, making it a popular choice among younger guys. It can be dressed up or down, depending on your needs.
Learning How to Coordinate Colors
Color coordination is essential to creating winning dress shirt and tie combinations. A well-coordinated outfit will not only make you stand out but also boost your confidence. Here are some tips for choosing complementary colors:
Choose Colors That Match Your Skin Tone: For instance, if you have warm skin tones, such as yellow or olive, consider wearing warm colors like brown or orange. If you have cool skin tones, such as blue or pink, choose cool colors, like gray or blue.
Pair Light and Dark Colors: Combining light and dark colors creates contrast and adds depth to your outfit. For example, pairing a light blue shirt with a navy tie creates a classic and sophisticated look.
Complement Bold Colors with Neutral Colors: If you opt for bold colors, such as red or purple, balance them out with neutral colors, like gray or beige. This combination will tone down the boldness and create a more polished appearance.
Match Similar Colors: Matching colors that are similar in shade and hue is an excellent way to create a cohesive look. For instance, pairing a pink dress shirt with a burgundy tie can invoke immaculate vibes.
Stick to Two or Three Colors: Limiting the number of colors in your outfit to two or three creates a clean and balanced look. Too many colors can make your outfit look chaotic and uncoordinated.
A Brief Guide to Patterns and Textures
Mix-matching patterns and textures are essential in creating a stylish dress shirt and tie combo. However, it can be tricky to get the right balance. Here are some tips for combining patterns and textures:
Mix Small and Large Patterns: Ensure your matching patterns are of varying sizes. Pairing a sizable striped tie with a checkered shirt, for example, creates visual interest without overwhelming the eye.
Keep It Simple: If you're new to mixing patterns, stick to simple and classic patterns such as stripes, checks, and dots. These patterns are often easier on the eyes.
Play with Textures: Textures add depth and complexity to your outfit. For instance, pairing a silk tie with a textured cotton shirt creates a contrasting and unique look.
Match Colors, Not Patterns: This might sound confusing, but it works. If you're wearing a patterned shirt, choose a tie that has one of the colors in the shirt's pattern. This way, you can create a unified look without clashing designs.
Occasion-Specific Outfits
Different occasions call for different dress shirt and tie combinations. Here are some outfit ideas to get you going in typical scenarios:
Business Formal: For formal business occasions, such as job interviews or important meetings, opt for a classic solid-colored dress shirt paired with a conservative tie to maintain a professional and serious appearance.
Business Casual: Meanwhile, dress shirts in light colors such as pastel blue or pink for office parties or networking events are ideal. Pair them with a patterned tie in a complementary color.
Weddings: As for weddings, choose a dress shirt and tie combination that matches the formality of the event. Choose a black tuxedo with a white shirt and black bow tie for a black-tie wedding, while pair a grey suit with a light blue dress shirt and a patterned tie for a semi-formal one.
Night Out: Night Out is a time for fun. Experiment with bolder colors and patterns for a stylish appeal. Perhaps try pairing a black dress shirt with a red tie for a classic look, or go with a chambray shirt and a knit tie to set the mood.
Date Night: For a date night, aim for a combo that shows you put thought into your outfit without appearing overly formal or stuffy. You can start by wearing a light-colored dress shirt with a dark tie and a blazer. Alternatively, a white dress shirt paired with a black tie and jeans can create a sharp and stylish look.
Additional Tips and Tricks
You've probably made the most of your dress shirt and tie combos with everything discussed above. Here are a few extra tips to take your outfit to the next level:
Pay attention to the fit. The fit of your dress shirt and tie is just as important as the colors and patterns you choose. Ensure your dress shirt fits well and isn't too baggy or tight. The tie should also be proportional to your body and the width of your lapels for a keen impression. DETERMINANT offers up to 61 sizes for a series of shirts, treat yourself to the perfect fit as if it was tailor-made! With the all-new tie series, this summer, let’s embrace the most refreshing look & style.
Accessorize appropriately. Accessories can help complete your outfit and tie everything together. Consider adding a pocket square, a watch, or a tie clip to your dress shirt and tie combination. Just make sure the accessories complement the overall look and aren't too distracting.
Don't be afraid to experiment. While there are some general guidelines to follow when it comes to dress shirt and tie combinations, don't hesitate to try new things. You never know what combination might end up working well for you. Just make sure the outfit is appropriate for the occasion and makes you feel confident and comfortable.
To Sum It Up
Dress shirts and ties are essential components that often go together in a wardrobe. By combining the right colors, patterns, and textures, you can create a meaningful outfit for any occasion. With a bit of knowledge from the things you learned in this read and a touch of creativity, create a look that showcases your unique personality and style. So have fun with your dress shirts and ties, and let your wardrobe be a reflection of your personal flair.
