There isn’t much variation in men’s clothing. But ties are one way that even the most conservative guy can engage in self-expression.
“We want guys to pick ties they can relate to and connect with,” said Emmie Howard, who launched Southern Proper with friend Reagan Hardy in March. Black Labradors, cotton blossoms, pink pigs and gray catfish are just a few of the traditional Southern icons adorning the line of ties that they call “conversation starters.”
This fall, more men are experimenting with vibrant colors and bold prints, said Howard and Hardy, who noted that orange, purple and pink are some of their most popular colors. Many men also are returning to a more retro look with ties in paisley, polka dot or swirl-pattern prints.
“In the last two years, there was a big swing toward bold fashions and shirts. That made bold neckties an anomaly, because it was hard to coordinate a bold tie with such a bold look,” said Rajeev Mehra, dress shirts and neckwear buyer for Macy’s. Now that men’s shirts are more classic, bold ties have made a comeback, he said.
But wearing the look means taking chances and avoiding the “Garanimalistic” attitude that some men have toward dressing, Mehra said.
Here are a few tips to remember when venturing into bold-tie territory:
Wear solid ties in bold colors with classic shirts in white, blue or gray, Mehra said. That way, you create a contrast between your tie and shirt instead of a monochromatic look.
Pair novelty ties with classic shirts and jackets, Hardy said. For example, an orange mallard duck tie adds a kick to the traditional white shirt and tweed jacket.
If you decide to mix patterns, the pattern on your tie should be tighter than the pattern on your shirt, Mehra said. One combination could be a shirt with a check pattern worn with a tie in a smaller check pattern.
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