Tie Bar Buying Guide - For the Suave and Sartorial Man

A tie bar, also known as a tie clip, is a small accessory that can make a big difference in your outfit. It not only elevates your look, but also keeps your tie in place and prevents it from swinging wildly. However, with so many options available, from materials to designs to sizes, buying the right tie bar can be overwhelming. That's why we created this tie bar buying guide, to help you make an informed decision and avoid any fashion faux pas.

Materials

The first thing to consider when buying a tie bar is the material. Tie bars can be made from a variety of metals, such as stainless steel, silver, gold, or brass, each with its own pros and cons.

• Stainless steel: durable, affordable, and low maintenance, but lacks the luxurious look and feel of precious metals.
• Silver: timeless, elegant, and versatile, but prone to tarnishing and requires regular polishing.
• Gold: classic, opulent, and prestigious, but expensive and not suitable for casual wear.
• Brass: budget-friendly, easy to find in unique finishes, but may tarnish over time and require occasional polishing.

Ultimately, the material you choose depends on your personal style, budget, and the occasion you're dressing for. A silver or gold tie bar is perfect for formal events, while a stainless steel or brass tie bar can add a cool touch to your everyday look.

Designs

Tie bars come in a wide range of designs, from simple and minimalist to ornate and expressive. The design you choose should complement your shirt, tie, and overall style, without overpowering them. Here are some popular designs to consider:

• Plain: a sleek and understated design that works well with any outfit, from business to casual.
• Engraved: a personalized touch that can feature your initials, a meaningful symbol, or a pattern that reflects your interests.
• Pinstripe: a subtle yet sophisticated design that adds texture and dimension to your tie bar.
• Matte: a modern and low-key design that eliminates any shine or glare, making it perfect for both daytime and nighttime wear.
• Novelty: a playful and quirky design that showcases your sense of humor or creativity, such as a miniature guitar, a sports ball, or a superhero logo.

When choosing a design, make sure it matches the occasion and the formality of your outfit. A plain or engraved tie bar is appropriate for a job interview, while a novelty tie bar is better saved for a casual outing with friends.

Sizes

The size of your tie bar is crucial for both function and fashion. A tie bar that is too short or too long can ruin the proportions of your look, while a tie bar that is too narrow or too wide can weaken its hold and slide around. The general rule of thumb is that your tie bar should be about three-quarters the width of your tie, and sit between the third and fourth buttons of your shirt.

However, the specific size of your tie bar also depends on the width of your tie and the type of collar you're wearing. Here's a chart that shows the recommended tie bar size for different tie widths:

Tie width	Tie bar size
1.5 inches (3.8 cm) or less	1 inch (2.5 cm)
1.5 to 2 inches (3.8 to 5.1 cm)	1.5 inches (3.8 cm)
2 to 2.75 inches (5.1 to 7 cm)	2 inches (5.1 cm)
2.75 to 3.25 inches (7 to 8.3 cm)	2.5 inches (6.4 cm)
3.25 inches (8.3 cm) or more	3 inches (7.6 cm)

In addition, a tie bar that is too thick or too thin can also affect its function and aesthetics. Typically, a tie bar that is between 1/4 inch (6.4 mm) and 1/2 inch (12.7 mm) in thickness should work for most ties and shirts.

Colors

The color of your tie bar should complement the color of your tie, but not necessarily match it. If your tie has a pattern, such as stripes, dots, or paisleys, choose a tie bar that has a similar color or texture, but not an exact replica. For example, a navy blue tie bar can work well with a navy blue tie with white stripes, while a silver tie bar can accentuate the shimmering effect of a silver silk tie.

However, if your tie is solid and lacks any pattern, you have more freedom to experiment with colors and contrasts. Here are some popular colors and finishes to consider:

• Silver: a classic and versatile color that complements most colors and materials.
• Gold: a luxurious and warm color that adds a touch of royalty and elegance to your outfit.
• Black: a sleek and formal color that pairs well with black, gray, or white ties, but avoid wearing it with colored ties.
• Gunmetal: a modern and edgy color that contrasts well with light or pastel ties, but may clash with darker or bolder ties.
• Wood: a natural and rustic finish that works well with linen or wool ties and adds a touch of earthy charm.

Whatever color or finish you choose, make sure it matches the rest of your outfit, including your shirt, suit, shoes, and accessories. A tie bar that clashes with your belt buckle or cufflinks can create a distracting and uncoordinated look.

Brands and Prices

Finally, it's important to consider the brand and the price of your tie bar. While you can find many affordable and stylish tie bars online or at department stores, investing in a high-quality or designer tie bar can offer better durability, craftsmanship, and exclusivity.

Here are some popular brands and their price ranges:

• The Tie Bar: a well-known and affordable brand that offers a wide variety of designs and materials, from $10 to $40.
• Paul Smith: a premium British brand that features playful and colorful designs, from $100 to $200.
• Burberry: a luxury fashion house that offers timeless and iconic tie bars, from $200 to $400.
• Tom Ford: a legendary designer that creates elegant and opulent tie bars, from $500 to $1000.

Ultimately, the brand and price you choose should reflect your personal style and budget, but keep in mind that a high-quality tie bar can last for years and add a touch of sophistication to your wardrobe.

In conclusion, a tie bar is a small but essential accessory that can enhance your style, keep your tie in place, and add a touch of personality to your outfit. By considering the materials, designs, sizes, colors, brands, and prices of tie bars, you can choose the perfect one for your needs and preferences. While the above tips and guidelines can help you navigate the world of tie bars, remember that fashion is ultimately a form of self-expression, and you should feel confident and comfortable in whatever tie bar you choose.