Neck ties. They are important for any formal occasion and make or break a suit. You spend a crazy amount of time making sure you have chosen the right tie, belt, shoes, pants, shirt and jacket. However one important element always seems to come last, the Tie Bar. Here are some of the burning questions relating to tie bars.
1. What's the go with a tie bar?
It's pretty simple. The tie bar is there to secure your tie to your shirt. This stops it flying around during a busy business day or the frivolity of a wedding celebration.
2. Which tie bar should I wear?
Well it all depends. A general rule is that you can wear a silver tie bar for any occasion or suit. It's a versatile color choice. Gold tie bars need to match with gold accessories. Different material, say wood? It's up to you! Also, the tie bar should never be be wider than the tie.
3. Are all tie bars the same?
Nope. There are two styles. Pinch clasp and slide clasp. Both do the job well and it's really a personal preference. We like the slide clasp as it doesn't have any moving parts that a susceptible to mechanical failure. Simple is good.
4. Ok. I've got one. Where on earth do I place it?
Good question as a lot of men get this wrong. A good rule of thumb is to fasten the tie bar between your third and fourth buttons, around the sternum, and just below the pectoral muscles.
5. Any other important tips for wearing a tie bar?
Just before fastening the tie bar, pull your tie upward to blouse it slightly. This will add a nice bit of depth and visual appeal and will also keep you from feeling constricted or like the tie bar is holding you in place.
And thats it. Tie bars are an often neglected element of a suit ensemble. When worn correctly they are an absolute must to keep your suit in order. No one likes a tie with a mind of its own. Get it under control.
