How to Pair Men’s Dress Shirts and Ties: Tips and Ideas from La Mode Men’s

Men’s dress shirts and ties are two essential items in a man’s wardrobe. A well-fitted dress shirt and a matching tie can instantly elevate a man’s style and make him look sharp and put together. However, pairing the right dress shirt with the right tie can be a daunting task, especially if you’re not familiar with the basics. In this article, we will provide you with tips and guidelines on how to match dress shirts and ties to look your best.

Color Matching
The first rule of matching dress shirts and a tie is to consider the color. Ideally, the color of your tie should complement the color of your dress shirt. If your dress shirt is a solid color, it’s easier to match with a tie. For example, a white dress shirt goes well with a solid red or navy tie. If you’re wearing a patterned dress shirt, you need to match the colors of the tie to the dominant color in the pattern. For instance, a light blue dress shirt with a subtle pattern can be paired with a navy tie that has a touch of light blue in it.

Pattern Mixing
Pattern mixing is an advanced technique that can add depth and texture to your outfit. The key to pattern mixing is to balance the size and intensity of the patterns. If you’re wearing a patterned dress shirt, choose a tie with a smaller and less intense pattern. For example, a gingham dress shirt can be paired with a small polka dot tie. If you want to mix two patterns of the same size, make sure they have different intensities. For instance, a bold stripe tie can be paired with a subtle stripe dress shirt.

Texture Play
Playing with textures can add an interesting dimension to your outfit. Pair a solid silk tie with a subtly textured dress shirt, like herringbone or twill, for a classic look. Alternatively, you can opt for a tie with a subtle texture, such as a knit tie, to add some depth to your outfit. Just make sure that the textures of the dress shirt and tie complement each other.

Occasion
The occasion is also an essential factor to consider when pairing a dress shirt and a tie. A solid dress shirt and silk tie are appropriate for formal events like weddings and business meetings. For less formal occasions, such as dinner dates or casual gatherings, you can experiment with patterns and textures. A chambray dress shirt paired with a wool knit tie, for example, can create a relaxed yet stylish look.

Proportions
Proportions are crucial when it comes to wearing a dress shirt and tie. The width of the tie should match the width of the lapel of the jacket. A slim tie goes well with a narrow lapel, while a wider tie looks best with a broader lapel. The knot of the tie should also be proportional to the collar of the dress shirt. A Windsor knot suits a spread collar dress shirt, while a four-in-hand knot works for a button-down collar dress shirt.

In conclusion, pairing a dress shirt and tie can be challenging, but it’s essential to create a polished and put-together look. By considering the color, pattern, texture, occasion, and proportions, you can create a well-coordinated outfit that suits your personal style and the occasion. With these tips and guidelines from La Mode Men’s, you can confidently wear a dress shirt and tie and look your best.