The Complete Guide to Textured Ties (Including Knit)

A textured tie is any necktie that has visible or tactile dimension in the fabric. Unlike regular, smooth-finish ties, these styles have a matte finish, woven pattern, or slightly nubby surface that gives them more character.

Texture can come from the material itself or from the way the fabric is woven. The result is a tie that feels less formal, more modern, and easier to wear in a variety of settings.

You may have heard of knit ties, which are made from knitted fabric and typically feature a squared-off bottom. While they’re a classic textured option, they’re just one part of a much broader category of ties that can add depth to your look.

Up close, the woven texture of this gray silk and linen blend tie adds dimension you won’t get from a smooth finish.

If you’re looking to add texture to your wardrobe, here are the most versatile styles to start with:

Knit ties are a more casual option with a distinct look. They have a textured, slightly nubby surface that gives them a more relaxed, approachable look. While regular ties come to a point, most knit ties have a flat, squared-off bottom. They can be a great choice for relaxed, smart-casual outfits.

Wool ties bring a thicker, more noticeable texture that pairs naturally with seasonal fabrics like tweed and flannel. Wool ties may be blended with other materials, like silk, giving you texture without feeling too heavy. These are go-to options for fall and winter styling.

Linen ties are lightweight with a slightly relaxed texture that’s perfect for warm weather. Linen blends, especially those combined with silk, offer the same breathable feel with a bit more structure. These are ideal for spring and summer outfits, outdoor events, and destination weddings.

Some ties are woven in a way that creates subtle texture within the fabric, often in a single solid color. Herringbone is a great example, but there are many variations that add depth without introducing bold patterns. These ties sit right between smooth and textured, making them easy to wear in both business and more formal settings.

If you want something subtle, start here. Matte ties are usually the least textured option in this category, but they still offer more depth than a traditional shiny tie. Instead of a glossy finish, they have a soft, flat look that feels more modern and understated.

Think of the difference between a uniform-style tie and a typical business tie worn in an office. Matte ties land right in between. They’re clean and simple, but not completely flat. That makes them an easy choice for everyday wear when you want something polished without looking overly formal.

Both textured and smooth ties have their place. The difference comes down to formality and the overall look you’re going for.

• Textured ties work best in business casual, smart casual, and modern office environments. They add personality without requiring bold colors or patterns.
• Traditional smooth ties are still the standard for formal events, conservative workplaces, and occasions where a clean, classic finish is expected.

If your wardrobe leans more casual or you’re dressing for a flexible office environment, textured ties are often the easier, more versatile option.

One of the biggest advantages of textured ties is how easy they are to style. They naturally add contrast to your outfit, even when you’re sticking to simple color combinations.

Pair a matte or lightly textured tie with a button-down shirt and chinos or dress pants. Add a blazer for a professional look that doesn’t feel too formal. This is a reliable option for meetings, presentations, and everyday office wear.

Try a linen or wool blend tie with a more relaxed shirt like chambray or oxford cloth. Dark jeans or tailored trousers and loafers or boots complete the look. This works well for dinners, events, and weekends when you want to look put-together without overdoing it.

A burgundy matte tie adds just enough depth to a casual chambray shirt without feeling overdressed.

Yes, you can wear textured ties with a suit. A herringbone or matte tie paired with a navy or charcoal suit adds depth without distracting from the overall look. It’s a simple way to make a classic outfit feel more current.

Textured ties are easy to wear, but the shirt and suit you pair them with can change the entire look. The goal is to let the texture stand out without competing patterns or finishes getting in the way.

Solid dress shirts are your safest option. White and light blue work especially well because they let the texture of the tie stand out. If you want a bit more personality, subtle patterns like thin stripes or light checks can work, but keep the rest of the outfit simple.

Oxford shirts are another strong choice for more relaxed outfits. Their slightly heavier texture pairs naturally with matte, linen, and woven ties.

A blue oxford shirt provides the perfect textured base for matte, linen, and woven ties.

Textured ties pair best with suits that also have visual depth. Navy and charcoal suits are the most versatile options, especially in wool or blended fabrics.

For more seasonal looks, tweed, flannel, or other textured suits work especially well with wool and woven ties. The key is balance. If your tie has texture, your suit should support it, not compete with it.

If your suit already has a strong pattern or texture, like a plaid or heavy check, choose a more subtle textured tie such as matte or lightly woven silk. This keeps the outfit intentional without feeling busy.

When building your collection, start with versatile colors that work across seasons and outfits:

• Navy blue: A reliable option that pairs with almost anything.
• Burgundy: Adds warmth and works especially well with gray and navy.
• Hunter green: A subtle way to introduce color while staying neutral.
• Charcoal and black: Clean, simple choices that let the texture stand out.

Once you’ve covered the basics, lighter tones like tan, light gray, or soft pastels can round out your wardrobe for spring and summer.

Good news here, you don't need to learn any new knots. Textured and knit ties use the same knots as any other necktie. That said, because these ties are a bit thicker, we'd recommend sticking with the Four-in-Hand knot. It's the simplest knot, it creates a slim, slightly asymmetrical shape, and it keeps the knot from getting too bulky with the thicker knit fabric.

A Half Windsor works too if you prefer a more symmetrical look, but skip the Full Windsor. It'll create a knot that's way too large with a knit tie's thickness.

Need a refresher? Our step-by-step guide on how to tie a Four-in-Hand knot will get you squared away in about 30 seconds.

One of the best things about textured ties is that you don’t need to spend a lot to see the difference they make. Instead of investing heavily in one style, try a few different textures to see what works best with your wardrobe.

At TieMart, our ties start under $15, making it easy to experiment with matte finishes, linen blends, and woven textures without overspending. You can explore our standard width ties or skinny ties to find the right fit.

If you’re building out your collection, textured ties are a smart addition alongside the five ties every man should own. They give you more outfit options without requiring a complete wardrobe overhaul.

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 collegiate two-color striped ties for graduation or school uniforms, popular paisley ties for weddings, traditional plaid ties for the office and now polka dots, too, of course. TieMart ties are affordable and ship quickly from their Midwest location.