• Home
  • Start Here
  • Blog
  • Level Up Your Style
    • A Crash Course To Better Style
    • Expand Your Style Comfort Zone Series
    • How To Dress Well: 21 Important Style Tips
  • Lookbook
  • Manifesto
  • Live Deals
  • ♡ Support
  • Contact + Work With Me
    • Contact Me
    • Work With Me

Gentleman Within

Dress Better, Feel Your Best

  • Facebook
  • Instagram
  • Twitter
  • Pinterest
  • LinkedIn
  • YouTube
  • Buying Guides
  • Spring Style
  • Life
  • Style
  • Fitness
  • Reviews
  • Grooming
  • Watches
  • Travel
  • Essentials
  • Stylin Out
Home › How To › How to Wear a Tie Bar & What to Wear it With

How to Wear a Tie Bar & What to Wear it With6 min read

By Khoi Nguyen — May contain affiliate links (Details)Leave a Comment


The tie bar has seen resurgence in the past few years with a newfound interest in (hashtag) menswear. It’s a classic accessory that’s always been worn with suits, but is becoming increasingly acceptable to wear with casual garments like leather jackets and denim jackets.

How To Wear A Tie Bar | GENTLEMAN WITHIN

A YouTube subscriber recently asked, what is the proper way to wear a tie bar? And so here’s my take on how to wear a tie bar/tie clip and what to wear it with. Additionally, I cover my 7 rules for wearing tie bars.

You can watch the companion video below. If you like it, be sure to hit that thumbs up!

HOW TO WEAR A TIE BAR/CLIP

How to Wear a Tie Bar & Tie Clip | Styling Ideas & Rules To Know

Personally, I think tie bars are one of the best ways to add a finishing touch to any smart casual look.

Let’s get into the 5 looks I put together on how to rock a tie bar.

TIE BAR STYLING INSPIRATION

Look #1: Suited Up

Look 1: Suit & Woolen Tie | GENTLEMAN WITHIN
SHOP THIS LOOK—Suit Jacket: Black Lapel (sold out) | Shirt: Charles Tyrwhitt (similar) | Woolen Necktie: Seaward & Stearn x He Spoke Style | Pocket Square: Brooklyn Wolf | Tie Clip: Amazon

The more formal your look, the more conservative your tie bar should be. Keep it simple and go with a plain, rectangular tie bar. If you wear anything more ornate or novel, you’ll create a dissonance with the rest of your outfit.

Here we have a brown suit with a check pattern paired with a thick woolen tie with a beautiful texture and bold pattern. I love how the subtle blue lines of the suit pick up the navy from the tie and the blue from the pocket square.

Look 1: Suit & Statement Piece | GENTLEMAN WITHIN
SHOP THIS LOOK—Suit Jacket: Black Lapel (sold out) | Shirt: Charles Tyrwhitt (similar) | Necktie: Seaward & Stearn x He Spoke Style | Pocket Square: Brooklyn Wolf | Tie Bar: Etsy (similar)

Since this tie is made of a thick woolen fabric with a lot of weight, it pairs well with a nice statement piece tie bar.

Look #2: Smart Casual

Look 2: Slim Tie | GENTLEMAN WITHIN
SHOP THIS LOOK—Blazer: Zara (similar on a budget) | Shirt: J.Crew Factory (similar) | Necktie: The Tie Bar | Pocket Square: The Tie Bar | Tie Clip: The Tie Bar

The tweed blazer above straddles the fence between dressy and casual. It’s dressy because it’s a blazer, but more casual because of the color and fabric. I paired it with another casual staple, a shirt with a gingham check pattern and a casual chambray slim tie. Since we’ve got some colors to play with, I thought it was a good idea to have the tie bar pick up the colors from the shirt.

I choose a blue and maroon tie bar. They both work with this look. Additionally, the short length of the tie bar also complements the shorter width of the slim tie. There’s a nice balance of texture and proportion here.

Look #3: Harrington Jacket

Look 3: Harrington Jacket & Knit Tie | GENTLEMAN WITHIN
SHOP THIS LOOK—Jacket: Asos | Shirt: GAP (similar) | Necktie: OTTA | Pocket Square: The Tie Bar | Tie Clip: Amazon

You’re not just relegated to wearing tie bars with suit jackets and blazers. You can rock a tie bar with anything from the smart casual harrington jacket and leather jacket to a more dressed down denim jacket.

Look #4: Leather Jacket

Look 4: Leather Jacket FleurDeLis And Arrow Tie Bar | GENTLEMAN WITHIN
SHOP THIS LOOK—Jacket: Peter Manning NYC | Shirt: GAP (similar) | Necktie: Knots Apparel  | Arrow Tie Clip | The Tie Bar | Fleur De Lis Tie Clip: The Tie Bar

The leather jacket leans into smart casual territory which lends itself to being dressed up. In this case I paired it with a cream, structured linen shirt with a navy woolen necktie. The little speckles on the tie add visual interest in a subtle way.

I decided to go with two of my favorite tie bars, the fleur de lis and arrow. These are pretty safe tie bars that can go with most any outfits with exception to the most formal of suits. I’d stick with a plain rectangle tie bar for that.

Look #5: Denim Jacket

Look 5: Denim Jacket & Whale Tie Bar | GENTLEMAN WITHIN
SHOP THIS LOOK—Jacket: Asos (similar) | Shirt: Sold Out | Necktie: The Tie Bar | Tie Clip | Sprezzabox

The denim jacket is a casual style staple. Perfect in the spring and fall seasons as top layers and as a mid-layer in the winter. The beauty of the denim jacket is that you can dress it up, and one of my favorite ways to elevate a denim jacket is with a tie, but not just any neck tie, a silk knitted tie (more casual than other fabrics).

Since it’s a more casual vibe, I wanted to have fun with it and so I went for a playful whale tie bar, which I think adds personality. People are surely going to comment on it. Sometimes it’s cool to equip yourself with a conversational piece, especially if you’re at a networking event or party where you don’t know anyone. It can break the ice for ya.

Tie Bar Style Tip | GENTLEMAN WITHIN

Tie Bar Pro Tip: I like to pull the tie’s fabric up a little bit and then slide the tie bar on. Not only is it a cool and stylish look, but it also gives your neck some breathing room.

And now onto the rules.

Quick note: If you’re enjoying this article on how to wear a tie bar, then you’ll probably find my other writing on all things men’s style useful. Each week, I share updates, style tips and other things not shared on the blog through my free email newsletter.

To join now, just enter your email address below and click “Get Updates!”

MY 7 TIE BAR/TIE CLIP WEARING RULES

Tie Bar Rule #1: Avoid Redundancy

Never wear a tie bar if you’re wearing a waist coat or sweater.

Tie Bar Rule 1: Avoid Redundancy | GENTLEMAN WITHIN

If you are wearing a mid-layer like a sweater or a waistcoat, there’s no need to wear a tie bar since the purpose of the tie bar is to hold your tie in place, it just becomes redundant if you wear one with a waistcoat.

Tie Bar Rule #2: The Sweet Spot

Place the tie bar somewhere between the 3rd and 4th button.

Tie Bar Rule 2: The Sweet Spot | GENTLEMAN WITHIN

Don’t go too high or too low with your tie bar placement, it will look awkward.

If you’re pretty confident with your style, then you can eyeball it for that sweet spot. Trusting your instincts goes a long way when it comes to effortless style.

Tie Bar Rule #3: Just Don’t Do It

Do not slant the tie bar diagonally.

Tie Bar Rule 3: Just Dont Do It | GENTLEMAN WITHIN

You may think you’re being edgy or trendsetting, but it just looks unintentional as if it was knocked askew and you had no idea.

Your best bet is to keep it straight, especially with formal ensembles.

Tie Bar Rule #4: Keep It Functional

Do not negate the function of wearing a tie bar.

Tie Bar Rule 4: Keep It Functional | GENTLEMAN WITHIN

You want to ensure that the tie bar is clamped down to your shirt placket, that way your tie is secured and doesn’t blow away in the wind.

Tie Bar Rule #5: Don’t Overdo It

Take caution with the number of accessories you’re wearing.

Tie Bar Rule 5: Dont Overdo It | GENTLEMAN WITHIN

You can wear a tie bar with a lapel pin and a pocket square so long as the individual pieces aren’t too loud or competing for attention. You want for a nice balance.

Again, trust your instincts, a good old eyeball test can go a long way, especially if when you start developing an eye for good style.

Tie Bar Rule #6: Watch The Length

Do not let the length of the tie bar extend past the tie’s fabric.

Tie Bar Rule 6: Watch The Length | GENTLEMAN WITHIN

This example above is barely passable. In fact, I wouldn’t wear this combination and would instead opt for a shorter tie bar.

Tie Bar Rule #7: Keep It Cas(ual)

Do wear them with formal outfits as well as more casual ones.

The examples above feature 3 versatile jacket types beyond the suit jacket and blazer that work well with a necktie, tie bar combo.

Breaking the Rules With Caution

Of course rules are rules for a reason. It gives us structure and provides a starting point that beginners can feel comfortable when they begin experimenting. Of course as the old adage goes, rules are meant to be broken. You can break the rules (with caution), so long as you know them. Intention is key.

And there you have it. In this post you’ve learned how to wear a tie bar, what to wear it with and my 7 rules for rocking a tie bar. I hope you enjoyed this article as much as I enjoyed creating it.


ONTO YOU. WHAT TIE BAR RULES ARE YOU GUILTY OF BREAKING?

Let’s continue the discussion over in the Gentlemen Within Private Facebook Community.

Looking forward to seeing you in there.

LIKE WHAT YOU READ?

Get more posts like this plus style tips & advice delivered straight to your inbox.

Success! Now check your email to confirm your subscription.

There was an error submitting your subscription. Please try again.

100% privacy. No spam. Unsubscribe at anytime. Powered by ConvertKit

Related


  • 160
    Shares

Filed Under: Accessories, How To, How To Style, Lookbook, Style Tagged With: Button Down, Button Up, Dress Shirt, How To, Knit Tie, Tie, Tie Bar, Tie Clip, Woolen Tie

About the Author

Khoi left the advertising industry, transitioning into a full-time style blogger. He created Gentleman Within as a way to document his own style journey while helping others along the way. He believes that style is worth caring about, and that through style, men can become their best selves. Connect with him on Instagram, Facebook and Twitter.

Drop a Line! Cancel reply

This site uses Akismet to reduce spam. Learn how your comment data is processed.

Our Current Favorites

Twillory (Shirts & Pants)
Huckberry (Best Brands)
Everlane (Minimal Basics)
Uniqlo (Affordable T-Shirts)
Public Rec (Athleisure Wear)
Clarks (Classic Chukka Boots)
Idrese (Quality Shoes & Boots)
Mott & Bow (Premium Denim)
Tiege Hanley (Simple Skincare)
Best Jeans Brands (Round-up)
Black Lapel (Made-To-Measure)
Greats & Koio (Italian Sneakers)
Mr. Davis (Bamboo Undershirts)
Adidas Stan Smith (Vegan Shoes)
Timex Weekender (Classic Watch)
Prime Wardrobe (Try Before You Buy)

POPULAR RIGHT NOW

  • 6 Types of Shoes Every Man Needs (And a Few Nice to Haves)
  • 5 Best Jackets To Keep You Looking Stylish (How to Wear & Where to Buy)
  • 5 Men’s Style Trends for 2019 You Need to Know (& How to Wear ‘Em)
  • How to Wear White Sneakers 5 Stylish Ways (Fashion Lookbook)
  • 10 Best Colors to Wear for Southeast Asian Skin Tone (Men’s Style Guide)
  • 7 Boot Styles All Men Should Know (and How to Wear Them)
  • 8 Essential Types of Shirts for Men & 60 Modern Ways To Wear Them
  • 10 Proven Techniques for Approaching and Meeting Women in 2021
  • The Navy Blazer: Men’s Style Essential (How to Wear & Where to Buy)
  • 5 Key Men’s Fashion Trends for 2020 & Beyond (Bulletproof Style)

INSTYLEGRAM

Four words: stripe print, hyper stretch. For this Four words: stripe print, hyper stretch. For this spring, a striped crew neck sweater pairs perfectly with white denim. As always, @express delivers stylish, on-trend pieces for the new season. Whether slim or skinny jeans is your flavor, with subtle distressed details, you'll be keepin' casual, cool and comfortable in basics like these.

You can shop the Express gear I'm rocking and other spring style essentials via Express.com or the @LIKEtoKNOW.it shopping app. #ExpressPartner #ExpressYou

#liketkit http://liketk.it/3bVa2
A couple of reminders... Embrace possibility. Cr A couple of reminders...

Embrace possibility.

Create change.

Play the long game.

Work harder.

Don't give up.

Challenge others.

Challenge yourself.

Trust your instinct.

Play to your strengths.

Outsource your weaknesses.

Ask for help.

Inspire others.

Live your truth.

Share what you know.

Prove them wrong.

Learn to spot opportunity.

Take the leap.

Say yes to everything.

Say no to everything.

Be great at what you do.

Love the journey.

Trust the process.

Feel the fear.

Do it anyway.

Believe in yourself.

Hold on.

Smile.

Breathe.

Relax.

Play.

Rinse.

Repeat.

Go get it. 💪
It's only a matter of time. 💎 🙌 #details It's only a matter of time. 💎 🙌 #details
an easy v-day fit. an easy v-day fit.
Load More... Follow Gentleman Within on Instagram

VIỆT. DESIGNER. STYLE BLOGGER.

I left the advertising industry as a creative, transitioning into a full-time style blogger. Now I help regular guys dress better and live with more confidence. Read More…

Become a GW Insider

Join 3,000+ Stylish Gentlemen
& Get Exclusive Updates.

Success! Now check your email to confirm your subscription.

There was an error submitting your subscription. Please try again.

Zero spam. Unsubscribe any time. Powered by ConvertKit

RECENT

  • How To Wear A Bomber Jacket | GENTLEMAN WITHIN7 Bomber Jacket Outfit Ideas For Men (And Why It Works)
  • Kodiak Leather Co. Denali Duffle Bag Review (Is It Worth Your Money?) | GENTLEMAN WITHINReview: Kodiak Leather Co. Denali Duffle Bag (Is It Worth Your Money?)
  • Mizu Towel Review: An Innovative Way to Increase Cleanliness | GENTLEMAN WITHINMizu Towel Review: An Innovative Way to Increase Cleanliness
  • 10 Prove Techniques For Approaching And Meeting Women | GENTLEMAN WITHIN10 Proven Techniques for Approaching and Meeting Women in 2021
  • How To Cuff Your Pants/Jeans | 4 Ways | Gentleman Within4 Ways to Cuff Your Pants (Including my Favorite Method)
  • Facebook
  • Instagram
  • Twitter
  • Pinterest
  • LinkedIn
  • YouTube

© 2016-2021 Gentleman Within · Home · Start Here · Blog · A Crash Course To Better Style · Lookbook · Manifesto · Live Deals · Support · Contact · Work With Me · Disclosure Policy