How to Select a Shirt-and-Tie Combination

For a conservative event, pick a low-contrast shirt-and-tie combination.

Flex your style muscle by picking the right shirt-and-tie combination. Because your suit is likely a neutral color such as black, brown, gray or navy, you can express your personality through your tie. Keep in mind that such expression is not suitable for every event. A great shirt and tie combination will make you look put together, creative and competent. A poorly matched shirt and tie will make a bad impression.

Instructions

1. For formal business settings, choose classic shirt colors -- light blue or white, generally -- and small tie patterns. For example, if you choose a light blue shirt, pick a tie that has this color incorporated in its pattern.

2. For less formal environments that still require a tie, try contrast in color or a bold pattern. For instance, spice up a brown suit and white shirt with a pumpkin or sage green tie. Trade in your usual thin stripes for paisley or diamonds. Be sure the pattern does not clash with any pattern in your suit.

3. Consider your coloring when purchasing shirts and ties. If you have light hair and eyes, go for low-contrast shirt-and-tie combinations. If you have dark hair and light eyes, or vice versa, pick high contrast combinations. If you have dark hair and eyes, choose either combination.

4. Choose ties that are proportional to your height and weight. If you're short, pick thinner, shorter ties. If you're tall, pick longer ties. If you're portly, pick wider ties.

References

• Art of Manliness: How to Match a Tie with a Dress Shirt and Suit