Category: Style Guide

What to wear to a black tie event?

With the party season in full swing, there’s a good chance you may have been invited to a black tie event or two. Whether it’s corporate or social, first impressions count, so let us help you dress to impress with the ultimate black tie guide from Ties R Us.

What is a black tie event?

So you’ve got the invitation, you’re looking forward to the night, then you suddenly stop and think, hang on a minute, what is a black tie event? If like us, your mind instantly conjures up ideas of James Bond or celebrity red carpet events then, to be honest, you’re not a million miles away. A formal event? Yes. A chance to look and feel your best? Also yes. A reason to panic? No no no. A black-tie event is a special occasion that requires a step up from your usual night out ensemble. An important business event, prestigious awards ceremony or a New Years Eve ball are just some of the reasons to host a black-tie event, all of which give you the chance to shine, and we don’t just mean your shoes!

What to wear to a black tie event?

While we appreciate you may not have black tie attire in your everyday wardrobe, it’s easy to create the perfect outfit depending on the level of formality that is required. Sometimes a black tie is optional, meaning a formal dress code is expected but you won’t be turned away if you don’t have a bow tie, a sharp suit will be perfectly fine, or a 3 piece if you want to take it to the next level. However, on other occasions you’ll need the works, so let’s break it down. . .

Trousers – Black, smart, crisp and clean. Trousers should be well fitting, erring on the side of a slimmer fit as opposed to a wide leg because no-one wants to look like a scene out of Big wearing their Dad’s suit!

Jacket – The famous dinner jacket, or tuxedo as it’s also known, complete with satin or silk lapels and of course, single-breasted. For a modern twist you could opt for a velvet jacket or even a glitzy jacket if it’s “creative black tie”, but if in doubt stick with what you know and keep it simple in black.

Shirt – A white dress shirt with winged collars for the bow tie is a must. A pleated front is optional but adds a little extra sophistication. It’s not often you get the chance to go all out, so go for the pleats we say.

Bow tie – A black bow tie, to match the suit, naturally. Hand-tied or elasticated is perfectly acceptable as long as it’s straight. At Ties R Us, we stock a selection of handmade satin bow ties to complement the satin of the jacket lapels perfectly. You could even at a satin pocket square too, for a little extra definition.

Cufflinks – Understated. A little bling is ok but novelty or brightly coloured cufflinks are not. If your shirt has black buttons, then black cufflinks would be an ideal match but if your shirt has white or covered buttons, a simple cufflink will suffice. We recommend keeping things monochrome in black and white for a super smooth look.

Shoes – Dark, preferably black, clean and tidy. Don’t let your shoes let you down when the rest of your attire is impeccable.

Did you know?

The dinner jacket dates back to 1865 when the Prince of Wales ordered a short midnight blue jacket as an alternative to the more formal tailcoat which the upper class wore every evening, how ironic. Originally known as less formal evening wear, the dinner jacket eventually became socially accepted and the tailcoat was limited to extremely formal occasions. Moving onto more recent times, black tie styling has changed throughout the decades, but the importance remains the same.

What to wear to a black tie wedding?

Who doesn’t love a good wedding? A chance to dress up, share an intimate day with the special couple and then, of course, party the night away. But if you’ve been invited to a black tie wedding, that’s a whole different ball game. Don’t expect to see knee slides on the dance floor at a black tie wedding, this is a formal event, with no exceptions. Men are expected to wear formal black tie attire unless stated otherwise and women are expected to wear a formal gown. So if you have been invited to a black tie wedding then simply refer to the above guide, to ensure you arrive in style . . . just be careful not to outdo the groom!

What not to wear to a Black Tie event?

We’ve taken you through the do’s, now lets go through the don’t’s of black tie formal events. A standard business suit usually isn’t suitable for an event of this nature, you should opt for something more elevated. It’s also wise to avoid bright colours and patterns especially on shirts. Casual clothes are a definite no-no, such as jeans or trainers – these are considered inappropriate for a black tie event.

Now you have our best tips for black tie attire – see our full range of ties to perfectly compliment your prime black tie ensemble.

22 November 2024
Dress Code Do’s & Don’ts

Menswear can be something of a minefield when it comes to hitting the right mark with your ensemble, especially if you haven’t experienced many forays into the world of formal fashion.

Though some things may seem fairly obvious, it’s important to get every aspect of your outfit right, and so having a handy checklist at your disposal can be a lifesaver when you’re getting ready to leave for a formal event.

To help you out, the Ties R Us team have put together a list of dress code do’s and don’ts, making sure that you’re dressed to impress down to every last detail.

Get on top of your grooming

As well as your dapper suit and tie combination, one of the first things people will notice is just how well-groomed you are – or aren’t.

A fresh hair cut or trim makes all the difference when attending a formal function and it’ll set off the sharpness of your suit perfectly. Sporting some facial hair? Don’t let this go unattended either! A beard trim or the removal of stubble will go a long way to adding to your outfit’s impact.

Find the right fit

There aren’t may dress code don’ts bigger than poorly fitting clothes, and so finding the right sized clothing, accessories and a snug-fitting suit should be high on your list of priorities.

Too loose and your outfit looks rushed and thrown together, too tight and it’s unflattering on your figure. A good fit is paramount to impressing with your ensemble at any kind of event.

Think about your footwear

It’s not just your garments that need careful thought and attention, your footwear is an essential part of your outfit too. The best way to approach this particular hurdle is to think about the formality of the event and the season in which it’s taking place.

For instance, you might get away with some colour-coordinated, non-flashy trainers and a skinny-fit suit at an informal summer wedding, the likes of Converse are incredibly popular. An event in the colder months might call for some smart-yet-warm boots paired with the right cut of trousers, it all depends on the setting.

Iron out the creases

Turning up to an event with wrinkle-covered clothing is a big no and never a good look. To onlookers, it will seem like you’ve rushed getting ready and perhaps don’t even care about the occasion you’re frequenting.

We recommend ironing and laying out your clothing in a well-ventilated room the day before you’re due to wear your outfit, this will allow the clothes time to breathe and avoid any troublesome creases setting in.

Pick out complementary patterns

One of the most common mistakes made by unwitting suit wearers is pattern clashing. There are a plethora of different styles out there, and an even bigger choice of colours on top of that, so it’s no wonder that things can get a little confusing or overwhelming. Do your research and mix and match different patterns and tones to find out what works best for your ensemble. Need a little extra help? Check out our guides on suit and tie and shirt and tie combinations.

Sunglasses after dark

Sure, sunglasses can add to your outfit’s appeal, but only given the right setting and occasion. They’re a must for summer weddings and they can help with the glare or adding a touch of glam at a daytime winter wedding too.

However, when the sun sets and you’re off cutting shapes on the dancefloor, clinging onto your Ray-Bans as well as your daytime look is definitely the wrong move!

Enjoyed our article and looking for more helpful how to’s and style advice? Don’t miss the Ties R Us blog page for more up-to-date accessory information.

12 April 2020
Style Guide: Tie Widths

As with all fashion trends, things in the tie world regularly change as styles shift alongside new years and changing seasons. Not only does this influence and affect the choice of patterns and colours in the popularity of ties, but it also matters when it comes to tie width too.

The width of a tie should be an important fashion consideration in any formal ensemble, and there are a couple of factors that should enter the equation when navigating which necktie to wear.

To help you grasp the basics of what width tie to wear and pull together the perfect outfit, our Ties R Us team have put together the ultimate style guide of accessory etiquette.

Base Things on Your Body Type

The most important aspect of picking the right style of tie, whether that’s a men’s tie or a woman’s, is body type. A tie should reflect your build, get this wrong and your necktie is likely to get lost in your ensemble rather than standing out and adding to your outfit’s aesthetics.

Follow these recommendations and you won’t go far wrong when it comes to picking the perfect tie width:

Slim or Skinny Build

2.25” – 2.75”

If you’re of a slim build with a smaller chest, you’ll need to mirror this with a slimmer choice of tie. Thankfully, there are plenty of skinny ties out there to choose from in a huge array of styles, so finding a fit that ticks all of the right boxes shouldn’t be an issue.

We would recommend a slim tie between 2.25” and 2.75” if you’re of a slender build.

Athletic or Average Build

2.25” – 3.25”

If you’re of an average build to athletic build, then good news – you’ve got a wealth of tie choices at your disposal! The tie world is your oyster, and you’re good to wear anything between 2.25” and 3.25”, which gives you a huge scope of accessories.

If you’re an average build then your choice of necktie will most likely boil down to personal taste or the needs of your outfit, whether that calls for a classic tie or a skinny number.

Broad or Larger Build

2.75” – 3.25”

The general rule of thumb here is, ‘wider guy – wider tie’. It doesn’t matter whether you’re wide in the chest or around the waist, if you’re of a broader build then skinny ties can soon get lost within your frame and fail to impact your outfit.

With this in mind, we recommend searching for a tie between 2.75” and 3.25” wide. As big as you might be, go too wide and you run the risk of looking like an extra from an Al Capone film, so bear your ensemble in mind before you go buying anything extra-wide.

Don’t Forget to Factor in Your Lapels

Your coat or jacket’s lapels are also an important point to check off the list when it comes to getting your tie width just right. Similarly to ties, lapel width and style change alongside fashion, but whatever the in-thing, there should always be a correlation between your tie and the lapels.

Marrying together the two is important, so you should avoid pairing a skinny tie with a wide lapel, and vice versa; get this wrong and it can throw off your entire outfit as well as the proportions of your body type!

For more up-to-date accessory advice and style guides, browse among our Ties R Us blog page and follow our expert team over on Facebook, Instagram and Twitter.

11 February 2020
Stylish Men’s Ties for 2020

As a new decade rolls around, with it comes a whole slew of new 2020 trends and fashion fads that will make their appearance everywhere from catwalks to street corners. Among these fashion trends is the humble tie – a mainstay of men’s (and women’s) fashion throughout the years.

Many people are set to jump straight onto the necktie bandwagon in the new year, with the likes of Highsnobiety telling us that ‘ties are primed for a comeback’ (of course, we’d argue that they never left), and super-cool celebrities including Frank Ocean and Tyler, The Creator regularly deploying ties from their arsenal of accessories.

So, which ties are set to make heads turn in 2020? We’ve whittled down the wealth of ties at our disposal to just four of our Ties R Us fashion favourites; so, fix up, look sharp, and get ready to enjoy these trendsetting stylish men’s ties.

Go Geometric

Geometric patterns can’t help but catch the eye, in fact, it’s in the very nature of their design. This year we’re primed to see some amazing looking geometric tie prints that definitely deserve a place in your wardrobe.

Though the classic geometric blueprint often features straight lines and triangular shapes, this doesn’t always have to be the case. Ties such as the Red and Blue Geo from Barkley London feature the regular, repeated shapes that give the accessory its geometry, and this great-looking accessory is just one way to add a little colour, pattern and pizazz to your outfit.

Stylish Stripes

Let’s be honest, stripes are likely to never go out of fashion, they’re a staple in most peoples wardrobes – but that doesn’t mean that the striped tie is undeserving of a place on our list.

Striped ties will feature heavily among 2020 fashion trends, and we’re going to see a huge amount of hues and pattern variations making an appearance in plenty of outfits. From classic neckties to skinny knits like this Pink Stripe Knitted Tie from Ben Sherman, there’s a range of textures and designs available to explore.

We recommend simultaneously working in some 2020 colour trends with your striped tie too, pastille shades such as the pink knitted tie pictured or natural tones are all going to be widespread this year.

Distinguished in Dots

Another pattern that has stood the test of time is the polka dot, and it’s sure to be just as ever-present in 2020 fashion as it has been throughout the decades.

Polka dot ties effortlessly bridge the gap between a formal or more informal outfit; you’ll find that they’re just at home with a wedding suit as they are at work or a social event, so having one at the ready in 2020 is definitely recommended.

If you’re looking for something classic and clean-cut, you can’t go far wrong with the Red Spot Silk tie from Stovel & Mason, an eye-catching accessory that can be paired with a range of suit colours. For those looking for something a little more sophisticated and quirky, why not branch out with a bow tie? Polka dot prints lend themselves well to the likes of our Navy Blue and White Polka Dot Bow Tie, pictured here.

Fashionably Floral

2020 is a time to be seen, so why not head into the new decade with some bold accessory designs? Floral ties and novelty print ties are certainly one way to get noticed in style and inject some personality into your ensemble.

As we touched upon earlier, pastille shades are among the top 2020 colour trends, and a soft blue or peach-toned suit looks incredible alongside the likes of the Navy & White Flower Skinny Tie from Original Penguin. Though it’s not recommended for the shrinking violet, if you’re a little less reserved, you should definitely make a purchase – personally, we love it!

Did you find our list of stylish men’s ties for 2020 handy? Do you have any helpful style advice you’d like to share? Join our community on Facebook, Instagram, Pinterest and Twitter! For more style guides and how to’s, head over to the Ties R Us blog page.

24 January 2020
Style Guide: Winter Suits

There’s something distinctly sophisticated and quintessentially British about a winter suit. Summertime in Britain is, of course, very brief, and so winter suit designs have become an intrinsic part of our formal fashion DNA, often being worn throughout the year.

Our climate calls for a suit that can handle high winds, cascading rains and bitterly cold temperatures, not to mention the occasional bit of snow. So, which materials, colours and patterns should you plump for in the colder seasons, and which men’s winter accessories can you pair with them? The ever-stylish Ties R Us team have put together a guide of our favourite winter suits for men, as well as some amazing accessories and ties to wear with them.

Wool Suit

A woollen suit is your best friend in winter, and whether you’re donning wool for a wedding or looking for an everyday suit for work, this versatile material is ideal for the colder months.

For one, it’s a natural insulator and can adapt to changes in temperature, but secondly, it’s also able to be woven into some fantastic looking patterns and can pull off a huge range of colours too.

A quality wool suit will also drape nicely and maintain its shape, meaning that your money spent is a good investment. When it comes to pairing ties with a wool suit, we recommend mirroring the wool of the suit with a stylish tweed tie or opting for block colours that work with the suit’s colour and accents.

Of course, there are many variants of the woollen suit, so we’ve covered some of the most stylish choices for you below.

Tweed Suit

Tweed is among the most popular of wool suits; it’s created by combining a total of three different coloured yarns which are weaved together (or twilled, to use the correct terminology) into the materials distinctive pattern.

Tweed is a timeless classic, and thanks to properties such as being warm, durable and water-resistant, it’s an incredibly popular choice of winter suit. When it comes to accessorising with tweed, the choice of the tie is going to depend on the twill of the suit. If, for example, the suit is a navy blue with red accents, a block-coloured burgundy or red tie could be the perfect option.

Cashmere Suit

Cashmere is a much-coveted material, lauded for its luxurious appearance, soft texture and superior comfort. It’s also incredibly warm, which makes it the perfect wardrobe choice for special occasions in the winter months.

Because of its softness, a cashmere suit is most certainly not for every day, though you can find some great-looking blends around that offer a lot more durability than a 100% cashmere creation would. More often than not, a cashmere suit will feature deep block colours, so when accessorising, you can play around with patterns and add a splash of complementary colour to the ensemble. A tartan tie will look fantastic alongside cashmere, as will a striped pattern.

Herringbone Suit

Similarly to tweed, herringbone suits are comprised of twilled yarn, combining the likes of wool and flannel into a tight weave. This makes herringbone warm, durable and heavy-wearing, while it also gives the material its distinctive zig-zagged pattern. This zig-zag pattern lends itself well to working in other textured fabrics and accessories, don’t be afraid to throw in a polka dot tie or some eye-catching novelty designs to achieve a head-turning winter look.

Corduroy Suits

You may not have noticed, but corduroy is back with a bang and cropping up in outfits everywhere. From sleek corduroy trousers to oversized shirts, this once overlooked material is enjoying something a renaissance thanks to the resurgence in ‘90s throwback fashion.

This classy-looking material also lends itself to a great tailored winter suit too, regardless of whether opting for a full-cord ensemble or mix-matching this versatile material with checks or complementing block colours. When it comes to picking a tie, you’ve got a wealth of amazing accessories at your disposal. Personally, we like to marry corduroy with checked patterns or playoff the perception that cord lends itself to a more reserved look with the inclusion of a charismatic bow tie.

Moleskin Suit

If you’re searching for a material that is lighter and more breathable yet still retains heat, look no further than the moleskin suit. These properties along with the material’s durability make moleskin suits a popular everyday choice for winter, particularly with those that are required to wear a suit for work.

The high cotton composition of moleskin suits run the risk of looking a little drab, so we suggest sparking some life into your look with contrasting bold colours or bright patterns, all topped off with a pocket square that compliments both the suit and your tie.

For more amazing style guides and helpful how to’s, browse among our Ties R Us blog page.

18 November 2019
Style Guide: What To Wear To The Races

In no time at all, we will be donning our fascinators and top hats and stepping out onto the green at the Royal Ascot. Here at Ties R Us we have put together a complete style guide for this season’s races.

The Royal Enclosure

So you’ve got your morning suit steamed and hung, your shirt is starched and waistcoat fitted to perfection. The final touches are crucial to complete the ensemble, so we have taken the liberty to suggest how to accessorise with confidence.

Black Morning Suit

The black morning suit is arguably the most striking choice of suit; paired with either a grey or black trouser, the tie is an important aspect to consider. The way the collar and waistcoats geometric shapes point to the breast makes the tie the centerpiece to any suit. At Royal Ascot, a world like nowhere else, the green will be awash with the black morning suit. Here’s how you may stand out and stay on trend in this classic tailoring.

How to Style It

The detail within your tie can embolden your stance, standing out against the crisp white shirt beneath. The Mint Green Floral Classic Men’s Tie and Handkerchief set brings the freshness of summer to your look, breaking up the dark exterior of the suit. This tie works best with a neutral waistcoat in either grey or beige. If you prefer a dark waistcoat and trouser, the Blue Check Silk Tie and Handkerchief set elevates the on trend single palette look, textured with a subtle quilted check to enhance, but not overpower the suit itself. Be bold with a novel print, such as the Coral Pink Paisley Classic Men’s Tie and Handkerchief set with a dark grey waistcoat to make the rouge pop.

The Grey Morning Suit

With the many shades of grey available, it can be difficult to match your accessories to your suit, without a little guidance. The grey suit works best in a single shade combination, with a matching waistcoat where possible. With a darker grey morning suit, the waistcoat can be paler in colour in either blue or beige, without deterring from the suit itself. A striped waistcoat in a similar shade can optically enhance the triangular form of the torso, making for a flattering choice. Here is how you tie it all together.

How you style it

At times, a darker tie than suit can act like a central pillar, elongating and strengthening your stature. Try the Plain Black Satin Classic Men’s Tie and Handkerchief set against a matt or textured suit to make a sharp impression. A light grey suit needs a softer coloured tie to compliment its illuminating appeal. The Light Peach and White Floral Classic Men’s Tie and Handkerchief set offers a warm pearly contrast to the cold grey of your suit. A slate grey suit is far more stable, meaning you can be more vibrant in your choice of tie. The Rose Gold Satin Classic Men’s Tie and Handkerchief set will glisten against the white of your shirt.

The Queen Anne and Village Enclosure

Here, we leave the morning coat and top hat behind, in favour of a suit and tie. This less formal attire brings more leniencies, meaning you can use all your 2017 style knowledge when forming the best outfit for the occasion. Here are just a few ideas to get you started.

The Olive Suit

It’s commando without the military regalia: best worn in slim fit in a matt finish, the olive suit warms any skin tone and invigorates the palette for suits this summer. Pair it with a white and blue striped shirt and Champagne and White Polka Dot Classic Men’s Tie and Handkerchief set to give a twist to this 1920’s staple.

The Double Breasted Suit

Here, the simplicity of the suit is most definitely its defining feature. When you walk out on that green, the fit, not flair, will get you the admiration you deserve. The bold two button across suit jacket draws the waist in whilst exaggerating the chest, in the subtle yet effective physique enhancing style. Your shoulders appear broader due to the way the collar naturally falls wider than on a single breasted suit. Underneath, wear a crisp white shirt, and the Silver and Blue Stripe Silk Tie and Handkerchief set to add a nautical edge.

The Cool Suit

We can all hope for a sunny Royal Ascot, in which case, the lighter the suit the better. Whether you have the ability to wear a linen suit without creasing or the confidence to wear a lighter shade, summer is well on its way and it’s time we started to embrace the pastel suit. After you have chosen your shade, either aim for a darker shirt or tie, but not both at the same time. The suit is a statement in itself, balanced by the darker tone of the shirt and complimented by the near match of the tie – or the other way around, depending on your preference. If opting for a similarly light shirt, try the Navy Blue Textured Classic Men’s Tie and Handkerchief set for a bold, yet classic look.

The Windsor Enclosure

Smartwear suggested, the Windsor Enclosure allows for the most creativity. Though fancy dress and novelty clothing are inhibited, we encourage you to express yourself in your choice of smart clothing. Check out our post on SS17 Menswear Trends to help select your gear for the day. For smart casual suit wear, opt for statement separates and cuban collars to truly embrace this season’s styles.

Whether you’re living it up at the races or simply looking for accessories to smarten up your everyday look, be sure to explore the full Ties R Us collection. From men’s ties to cufflinks and pocket squares, you can discover the perfect options to give any look an instantly dapper edge.

7 June 2017
SS17 Menswear Trends – Top 7 Wearable Trends

With the new season comes new trends, and there is no better time than spring to give your wardrobe a much needed overhaul. From stylish stripes to ultra relaxed fits, here are some of the top menswear fashion picks to keep your eye out for in spring / summer 2017.

Cuban collar shirts

In general, men’s fashion for 2017 seems to be looking much more relaxed, with loose fits taking centre stage. A cuban collar shirt is the must have shirt for spring and summer – this wider collared shirt is lightweight and airy yet with an air of smart refine. Whether for a formal event or for adding a dapper edge to your day to day look, a cuban collared shirt promises to bring your outfit to the next level.

How to style it

Pair a plain white cuban collar shirt with smart chinos for an effortlessly cool semi-formal style, or work Hawaiian inspired prints with jeans and trainers for a easy to wear day-to-day look.

Sports luxe

Good news for any fans of the sports-luxe trend – it doesn’t look to be going anywhere anytime soon! We spotted 90s inspired streetwear all over the SS17 runways – and even caught a glimpse of the classic shell suit! The great thing about the sports-luxe trend is its effortless appeal, and the fact it can be interpreted in a number of different ways. From zip up tracksuit tops and slouchy hoodies to trainers and joggers, the sports-luxe menswear trend is the perfect excuse to wear your comfiest clothes and call it fashion!

How to style it

This trend can be a tricky one to get right; to keep on the right side of fashion and avoid the look becoming too slobby we’d recommend picking elements of sportswear and pairing them with something a little more refined. Think a smarter shirt with relaxed joggers, or a pair of chinos with a cool sports jacket.

Denim

From jackets and jeans to distressed denim and double denim, this season denim is everywhere! While once doubling up on denim may have made the fashion police cringe in shame, this season all the usual denim rules have gone out of the window. Clashing shades? Totally acceptable! Denim patches? You got it!

Denim is perfect for creating a relaxed yet ever-stylish look. With an air of effortless cool, denim really is a man’s best friend.

How to style it

We’re loving denim shirts for the tricky spring / summer transition period. A medium blue denim shirt with bronze button detailing is perfect for a casually on-trend look. Team with a pair of chinos, or a pair of darker denim jeans if you’re braving double denim.

Suits

You heard it here first – suits are back in fashion (which perhaps begs the question, when were they ever out of fashion?)! This season however, step away from your three piece suit and instead focus on your separates. Suits in 2017 are set to be much more versatile. You can, of course, still wear your double breasted jacket with a smart shirt and tie for a formal affair, but you can also team it with a casual t-shirt and jeans to nail the smart casual look on more relaxed days.

How to style it

For a formal affair, suits in tonal shades are the way forward. Navy blue shades are perfect for this – choose a blue jacket, blue shirt and blue tie in slightly varying shades to keep the look complementary and fashion forward. If you can, opt for some different textures to help break the outfit up – a textured tie, for example, is a great way to keep the look interesting.

To work your suit into a more casual look, try wearing your suit jacket open and relaxed with dark, loose fit jeans and a simple t-shirt.

Relaxed fit trousers

From cuban shirts to wider legged trousers – relaxed fits are officially in. Both trousers and jeans this season have taken a comfortable turn. Gone are the restrictive skinny jeans and slim fit trousers of years gone by, making room for looser cut denims and chinos that project a laid back, casual style.

How to style it

This one is pretty easy – just style as you would your usual jeans or trousers! We love the the juxtaposition of darker, relaxed fit jeans with a suave blazer jacket and smart shoes.

Stripes

Patterns are set to be huge this year, with stripes easily being the frontrunners in the style stakes. From classic horizontal stripes to modern, vertical stripes, stripes this season are worn muted and in varying widths.

How to style it

Opt for a full vertical striped shirt worn loose for a relaxed yet smart day to day look, or work a striped tie into your formal getup to keep your occasionwear looking fashion forward.

20 February 2017
Valentine’s Date Night Style Tips
It’s that time of year once again – Valentine’s Day is upon us! If there’s one evening of the year when guys are expected to really step up and make an extra effort in the style stakes, it’s Valentine’s.

Whether you’re spending the evening with a long term partner or heading out on a nerve wracking first date with someone new, you want to make a fantastic impression with a suave and stylish look. Here at Ties R Us we’ve put together some top tips to keep you at the top of your game this Valentine’s.

Keep it comfortable

No, we definitely don’t mean rocking up to a fancy dinner date in your slouchiest joggers and trainers! Dress to impress, but make sure you feel relaxed and comfortable in whatever you wear – the key here is to feel as good as you look. If you feel uncomfortable it will translate through your body language and make for an instantly awkward date. Here are some key things to consider;
- Is your outfit you? That is, is it something you would usually wear? While it’s always good to be a little adventurous, don’t stray so far from your comfort zone that you’re left feeling unnatural and uncomfortable.
- Do your clothes and shoes fit well? Accessorise with a belt if needed, and if your shoes are new wear them around the house before your date to make sure they’re broken in.
- Are you going to be too warm or too cold? Be practical here – if you’re taking your date to a cosy, fire lit pub then ditch the wooly jumper and scarf, or similarly if you’re heading out to a bar terrace make sure you have a coat to hand.
Dress for the venue and occasion

While a leather jacket and high tops combo may go down a treat in a bowling alley, it won’t quite hit the mark at a fancy bar or five star restaurant. Similarly, turning up to a pub for some casual drinks in your best suit and tie may make for a slightly awkward evening!

Think about where you’re going and how other people there will be dressed. If possible, scope out your venue beforehand (whether in person or online) to get a feel for the place and which looks may work well. Remember, however, that people will be making extra effort with their ensembles on Valentine’s Day. Perhaps consider what you would wear to your venue on a regular evening and step it up a notch to suit the occasion – so if you would usually wear your best polo shirt opt instead for a button up shirt, or switch out your jeans for a pair of smart chinos.

Mix in formal elements to perfect the smart casual look

If you’re still unsure what to wear this Valentine’s Day, play it safe with a smart casual look. Smart casual outfits are hugely versatile, work for a variety of different occasions, and show you’ve made an effort for your date.

The smart casual look is easily achieved by mixing in elements of formal and casualwear. This could be a crisp shirt paired with a pair of chinos rather than suit trousers, or even smart jeans with a suit or blazer jacket and stylish skinny tie.

Colours

For a classic and sophisticated look stick to a neutral colour palette with touches of colour worked throughout. Use greys, white, blacks or navy blues to create a base, then soften the look and add a romantic edge with coloured accessories such as ties, scarves or pocket squares.

While subtle pastel shades and pinks are perfect for the day of love (we love this pink and white polka dot pocket square!), avoid red unless you want to become a total Valentine’s cliche!

Suiting up? Try a tonal look

If you’re heading down the formal route this Valentine’s Day, keep it fashion forward with a tonal look. The tonal trend is set to be huge in 2017, and involves choosing one key colour and working variations of it throughout your outfit – so for a formal look, your suit, shirt, tie and pocket square would all be various shades of the same colour.

The key here is to use subtle layers and complementary shades to break up your outfit – avoid anything too bright unless you’re planning on rocking the children’s television presenter look! Shades such as grey and blue are perfect for this trend, and working in texture, for example with a textured tie, is a fantastic way to provide much needed contrast between pieces.

Patterns

Whether you’re making an impression in a suit or sticking to a more casual look, patterns are the perfect way to bring your look to the next level. A pattern adds a playful, softer touch to any ensemble – perfect for Valentine’s!

If you’re keeping it casual this year, choose a patterned shirt or accessorise with a patterned scarf. For a more formal getup, opt for patterned accessories such as pocket squares and ties. Floral and paisley patterns are ideal for a Valentine’s date; a floral tie adds a romantic edge to your three piece suit, while a paisley pocket square tucked into a blazer pocket brings a refined and ultra stylish edge to a smart look.

Shoes

No matter how much time and attention you put into your outfit, if you get the shoes wrong it will all have been for nothing! Shoes show attention to detail – even the most dapper of outfits can be ruined in an instant with old, scuffed or dirty footwear.
- To step it up for an ultra formal look, keep it traditional with a pair of sleek Oxford or Derby shoes.
- It’s Valentine’s – leave the trainers at home! For a smart casual look that your date is sure to appreciate, opt instead for loafers, boat shoes or boots.
- Brown brogues are a perfect, failsafe choice for a number of Valentine’s occasions. Classic yet with a modern, stylish edge, a pair of brogues look as great with your best pair of jeans as they do with a full suit.
Accessories

Accessories really can make or break an outfit. Whether it’s finding the perfect watch to complete your outfit or pulling everything together with a stylish belt, finishing touches play a key role in your overall look.

For a smart casual look, step it up with a patterned pocket square, a stylish scarf or a luxury timepiece. For a formal look, go the extra mile with a pair of elegant cufflinks or a statement tie pin.

… Remember;
- If in doubt, keep your look simple, understated and sophisticated. Wearing something outlandish and over the top may make a bad first impression.
- If you’re heading out to a luxury restaurant or fancy formal event, be sure to check for any dress codes. There may well be a black tie or white tie requirement – you don’t want to ruin your evening before it’s even begun by turning up in the wrong outfit!
- Make sure all your clothes are clean and ironed well ahead of your date to avoid any last minute panics.
- For further inspirations, whether for a date, special occasion or simply stepping up your day to day style, be sure to check out the full selection of men’s ties, bow ties and formal accessories at Ties R Us!
9 February 2017
What To Wear On New Year’s Eve: A Men’s Style Guide

When it comes to parties, there really is nothing quite like New Year’s Eve. Whether you’re seeing in the new year in a laid back pub with a group of mates, spending time with family, going wild in a club or attending a super swanky party, getting your look right is important. Wherever you’re going to be when the clock strikes midnight, here at some handy guidelines to help you begin 2017 in true style.

Casual

For a casual NYE event when you just want to be comfortable all night long, nothing beats the classic jeans and t-shirt combo. Choose any tee to reflect your personal style, be it plain, patterned or branded. Team with a cool pair of trainers and layer a bomber jacket over the top for an ultra chilled out style.

When to wear it: a casual house party, down the pub with friends or a relaxed outdoor event.

Semi casual

Do you have a New Year’s Eve bash where a casual look won’t quite make the impression you’re looking for, yet a smart casual look will be a little too much? If so, a semi casual look is your new best friend! Think a nice pair of jeans and smart shoes or loafers with a relaxed shirt or polo shirt. This versatile look works for a number of events – it is slightly more dressed up than casual but is still comfortable, with a laid back element. A semi casual look can be perfectly completed with an on-trend jumper, or a smart jacket or coat if you’re seeing in the new year outdoors.

When to wear it: a club, party or night out, or a meal and drinks with friends.

Smart / casual

Ah, the ever tricky smart casual look! The difficulty most people have with this dress code is it can be relatively vague – however, this can be used to your advantage, allowing you to go as formal or as casual as you please. Generally, we’d recommend keeping it simple with a plain shirt – white, black or a very pale blue are perfect. You can pair this with trousers or smart jeans, depending on the level of formality you want to achieve, and a blazer or cardigan (again, down to personal preference). For a dapper edge, add a tie or bow tie, or alternatively opt for a pocket square with a casual fold to finish the look.

When to wear it: a more formal meal, a family affair or sophisticated drinks.

Formal

It goes without saying that for a formal New Year’s event you should dress to impress in a suit, tie or bow tie, cufflinks and pocket square – the whole shebang! If the dress code is simply ‘formal’ you can have some fun with coloured or patterned ties and accessories. However for a black or white tie affair, stricter rules are generally in play. For a black tie event be sure to wear a tuxedo and a plain black tie (the clue is in the name!). A white tie event – the most formal of all formal events – calls for a black jacket with tails, sharp white shirt and a white bow tie.

When to wear it: an ultra formal party or charity event.

23 December 2016
What to Wear to a Job Interview
When it comes to a job interview, what you wear will have a huge impact on both your performance and how the interviewer perceives you. The right outfit will not only make you look more professional, but you will feel more professional in it and therefore act more professional – giving you a better chance of acing the interview!

General Rules Of Interview Dress

Of course, what you wear will depend on where your interview is. As a general rule of thumb we’d recommend sticking to smart attire – it is advised to dress for an interview as your boss would dress day to day. Avoid jeans, t-shirts and trainers unless you’re fully confident that a casual dress will be appropriate. For most a full suit and tie, or at least a shirt with a smart blazer, is the way to go.

When it comes to your suit and tie, simple, muted colours work best. Your tie should complement both your suit and your shirt – often it is easiest to stick to a plain white shirt and choose an understated, plain coloured tie. Avoid loud colours or over the top patterns; whilst these may make an impression, often it will be the wrong one!

Choosing Your Tie

Men’s Satin Electric Blue Tie

If you’re wearing a smart jacket and a white shirt often your tie will be the only source of colour in your look. Colours have been proven to have a huge impression on how others perceive you, so it is important to get this right. Again, think about the job you are going for. For example, generally red can be seen as too aggressive and over-confident for an interview, however if the role is sales or commision based this may work in your favour. Similarly, whilst orange can be seen as too playful for a more serious role, for a creative, media based interview it can be appropriate.

As a general rule however, we’d always recommend a blue tie for an interview. Of all the colours, blue gives a calm, professional, confident and reliable impression that is perfect for any interview situation.

Finishing Touches

Once you’ve selected your outfit, you need to think about the finishing touches. Opt for black or brown smart shoes (brogues are perfect) and make sure they’re clean and polished. It is vital to always be prepared ahead of an interview – ensure you’ve selected everything you’re going to wear and have it washed and ironed ahead of time, as any extra stress on the morning on your interview may impact negatively on your performance.

Finally, make sure your hair is cut and styled professionally and that you’re freshly shaven (or any facial hair is neatly trimmed).

So, if you have a job interview coming up and you’re wondering what to wear, always remember these top tips…

What should a man wear to a job interview?
- Stick to smarter attire – avoid jeans and trainers unless you’re confident that casual dress is appropriate.
- Choose a smart white shirt and an understated coloured tie; blue works perfectly in professional situations.
- Opt for black or brown dress shoes.
- Be prepared. Ensure clothes are ironed and shoes are polished ahead of time.
Follow all these tips and you’ll arrive at your interview well prepared, looking great, and all with the confidence you need to impress any prospective employers!
10 November 2016