5 Ties Every Man Should Own
No Exceptions
Whether you’re just starting your tie collection or you’re looking to expand an existing one, there are some ties no man should be without. It doesn't matter if you wear traditional, narrow, slim or skinny width ties, these five styles still apply. Here's what you need for your collection.
1. A Dark Solid Color Tie
If you only own one tie, make it a dark solid.
Today’s most versatile options include solid burgundy, navy, and deep green (like hunter green). Each of these works across formal events, weddings, and everyday professional wear without feeling overdone. A solid black tie or a dark gray tie is also a dependable choice, especially for more formal or traditional settings.
For a more modern look, consider adding texture to your solid ties. Subtle weaves or herringbone fabrics give the tie more dimension while keeping it easy to match. It’s a simple way to make a classic feel more updated without stepping into bold patterns. Looking for more options? Explore our guide to textured and knit ties.
Absolutely every single man should own a solid color tie in a dark color.
2. A Striped Navy Tie
When you're ready to introduce pattern, start with stripes. Striped ties are one of the easiest ways to add variety while staying professional. There are a few common styles, including bold two-color stripes, finer pencil stripes, and tone-on-tone stripes. Two-color striped ties tend to feel more traditional and noticeable, while pencil striped ties are more subtle, making them easy to wear in conservative office settings. Tone-on-tone striped ties are the most formal stripe, and can be worn for polished office settings and formal events like weddings.
Rooted in tradition but still widely worn today, a navy or dark blue striped tie is the safest place to start. It’s versatile, timeless, and works well with most shirts, suits, and occasions without much effort.
A striped tie is an easy step beyond solids, adding pattern while keeping a clean, professional look.
3. A Plaid Tie
Plaid ties bring personality. They’re a great way to add variety to your everyday wardrobe without straying too far from a polished look.
Plaid ties often lean more casual, and are a natural choice for occasions that call for something a little less formal, like church services, daytime weddings, family celebrations, or showers.
That said, plaid ties can still work for the office. They can look put-together when styled with solid shirts and suits. In general, smaller plaids in darker colors will feel more formal, while larger, high-contrast plaids tend to read more casual. If you want a plaid tie for work, consider a subtle pattern like this dark red plaid.
A plaid tie brings personality to your wardrobe, offering a versatile option that works for both the office and less formal occasions.
4. A Paisley Tie
Paisley is where you show some confidence.
With its detailed, flowing pattern, a paisley tie stands out more than almost any other style. The intricate design might seem intimidating at first, but you’re missing out if you don’t own at least one.
The key to wearing paisley is to let it be the focal point of your outfit. Pair it with solid suits and shirts in colors that either complement or contrast the tie, or try tonal tie styling for a more coordinated, refined look.
Paisley is a classic pattern with a long history, and when styled correctly, it adds depth and personality without feeling overdone.
A paisley tie makes a statement, adding depth and personality when you want your tie to stand out.
5. A Bow Tie
Even if you never plan to attend a black tie event, you should have a colorful bow tie in your wardrobe. For casual wear, you can often swap a standard necktie for a bow tie in a similar pattern. It’s a versatile option that works in the office, on casual Fridays, or semi-formal occasions when styled appropriately.
Bow ties come in two main styles: Pre-tied and self-tie. Pre-tied bow ties are convenient and give you a consistent, polished look right away, while self-tie bow ties offer a more traditional feel and a slightly more natural shape once worn.
Learning to tie a self-tie bow tie is a useful skill to have up your sleeve for weddings and special occasions, but either style is widely accepted today depending on your preference and comfort level.
Bow ties are also a great way to experiment with pattern and color. If you’re unsure about trying something new or bold, it often feels more approachable in bow tie form.
A bow tie adds variety to your wardrobe, offering a versatile alternative to a necktie for both everyday wear and special occasions. (And if you’re unsure about trying a new pattern, like floral, try it on a bow tie.)
Build a Collection That Works Together
The goal isn’t to own dozens of ties. It’s to own the right ones. With these five styles, you’ll be covered for nearly any occasion without overcomplicating your wardrobe.
Once you’ve got the essentials, the next step is knowing how to pair them. Check out our guide to matching shirts and ties.
Final Thoughts
If you want to go a step further and add an extra tie or two, 2026 brings even more room to experiment with pattern and texture. Floral ties, for example, continue to gain popularity as a way to add personality while still feeling polished. Updated textures, softer patterns, and more relaxed styling are also shaping how ties are worn today.
For a closer look at what’s trending right now, check out our 2026 necktie trend guide.
About TieMart
TieMart is an online retailer of men’s neckties, bow ties and other accessories. A wide selection of pattern ties are available at TieMart, including popular paisley ties for weddings, traditional plaid ties for the office and collegiate two-color striped ties for graduation or school uniforms. TieMart ties are affordable and ship quickly from their Midwest location.
ABOUT OUR FAMILY
We are a family-run tie company based in Illinois. We've been in the biz since the late 90s, so by now we know a thing or two about men's fashion and accessories. Tiepedia is our lil spot on the web to share that knowledge with you.