subject: Men's Style Conundrums: Skinny Ties [print this page] Men's fashion pundits remain divided on the topic of skinny neckties. There are those who say that a tie with all the thickness of a shoelace isn't fitting for men over 16, while others say that skinny ties are a good break from the wider tradition of necktie sizing. In these times of changing norms and mores of male style, the skinny tie is still a hot debate in modern fashion - one that may not be fully resolved anytime soon.
A Treatise on Ties
The pro-skinny manifesto is true: the general rule for ties is that a narrower stance almost always means a more 'modern' look. Your dad probably had an entire collection of the traditionally sized silk neckties that were standard in his day, while your everyday work ties are noticeably slimmer than his. Chronological records all agree; the 1930's saw an explosion of wide ties, while skinny ties came into fashion in the last decade.
At the same time, there's also such a thing as a necktie that's too slim. Overly narrow ties have been at fault for many a celebrity faux pas these past few years. There exists a limit where your necktie crosses over from a modern twist on a men's fashion classic to a shoe string that you mistakenly tied around your neck.
Like many other things in fashion, that line is not absolute - unless, of course, you wear a tie that's literally the width of a shoelace. When in doubt, the rule of thumb is to follow your body; slimmer guys can get away with very skinny ties, while heavier built men should stick to more conservative proportions. The litmus test is to always look at yourself in the mirror. If the tie makes your noggin seem inflated, it's too thin.
If you're still not sure, bring someone who could give you an honest opinion on style like a close friend or sibling. When you can't evaluate yourself in the mirror well enough, a third party's opinion is always helpful. Don't be ashamed to ask advice of the sales staff, either; if you're in a men's boutique, they probably know more about ties than you do.
Rocking Rock Star-Skinny Ties
You might not party like a rock star, but dressing up like one with a skinny tie can really bring out a similarly youthful energy in your outfit. Properly wearing the skinny, though, means it'll have take center stage in your ensemble.
'Modern' and slim ties can work in the typical office outfit, complete with suit jacket and maybe even a vest for a three-piece suit. Once you take that step into skinny territory, on the other hand, there's no point in donning office attire since you won't be anywhere near formal anyway. A jacket - suit, sport or otherwise - or a vest will also visually drown the tie; it's prone to happen since the tie itself takes up so little real estate.
Aside from keeping your top half light and straightforward, you should also make an effort to apply that same aesthetic to your bottom. Plain black slacks are okay, but the ideal style piece would be an equally skinny pair of jeans to maintain both the skinny rocker vibe and the proportions of the tie. Similarly, keep your shoes simple and understated, like with a pair of Chuck Taylors.
Seeing Skinny
There are three basic requirements for you wear skinny ties without looking like a total fashion disaster. First of all, you've got to have the right build - in short, slim - for it. If you can't find skinny jeans that fit you, you won't find a skinny tie that will, either.
Second, opt for a simple style. The fact that it's so much thinner than the usual makes it dramatic enough. No need for prints or designs here. Last but not least, wear it with an even simpler outfit to give your tie a stark enough background for contrast. Otherwise, excess accessories and added layers will only drown the tie out in an ocean of fabric and color. Let the skinny tie take center stage, and it'll be sure to give you the limelight too.
by: Hendrik Pohl
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