Tie Styling Tips for Senior Pictures and Yearbook Day

Senior pictures have staying power. Even if trends come and go, your yearbook photo will live on in printed pages (and probably your parents’ hallway) for decades. A tie that looks good now and holds up in five, ten, or twenty years? That’s the goal.

Go With:

• Classic solids: Navy, burgundy, charcoal, or black.
• Simple stripes: Think prep school style, not flashy.
• Light patterns: Tiny dots or tone-on-tone texture adds interest without stealing the show.

Avoid:

• Distracting patterns: Busy prints or novelty designs might feel fun, but they can photograph poorly. When in doubt, simpler is better.

Here’s a few recommendations:

A traditional-width tie (around 3.25" to 3.5") is a safe, polished pick for formal photos. But if your school allows a more modern vibe (or your outfit calls for something slimmer) a narrow tie can still look sharp. Just make sure the tie width complements your suit or shirt’s collar and lapels.

A Quick Guide:

• Traditional Width (3.25"–3.5"): Best for most senior portraits.
• Narrow Width (3"): Good with slim-fit shirts and a modern look. Similar look to a traditional tie on slimmer bodies.
• Slim Width (2.5"): Trendy without going too skinny, especially flattering on smaller frames. Wear with a slim shirt.
• Skinny Width (2"): Trendy, but not always timeless in photos.

Here's examples of all four width:

Bow ties can be a stylish choice, if they’re you. But keep a few things in mind:

• Check your school’s portrait guidelines. Some schools may require traditional neckties for official yearbook photos.
• If bow ties aren’t allowed for the official portrait, wear one for additional personal photos (especially if you’re using your own photographer) or in yearbook candid shots like senior superlatives or club pages.
• Still choose from timeless fabrics and colors. Skip anything too flashy or novelty for formal portraits, even if a bow tie is permitted.

Your tie shouldn’t be an afterthought. Once you’ve picked your outfit, likely a button-up shirt and possibly a jacket, make sure your tie coordinates.

Best Color Pairings:

• White Shirt: Almost any color works. Try navy, maroon, gray, or a muted hue.
• Light Blue Shirt: Try burgundy, navy, or charcoal gray.
• Gray Shirt: Go with a darker tie like black, navy, or deep red.

If you’re wearing a school uniform, a fresh, clean tie in school-approved colors is key. Don’t wait until the night before to realize yours is wrinkled or stained.

Your official portrait is usually taken by a professional photographer, perhaps outside of school. Other yearbook photos are often taken throughout the year, like club pics, sports teams, or senior superlatives.

Smart Tips:

• Wear a tie (and/or socks) that reflects your personal style or activity. They might not be right for formal portraits, but a bold or novelty tie could show off your personality here—especially for senior superlatives.
• Bow tie lovers, this is your time to shine.
• If your school allows polos or less formal outfits, a knit or skinny tie can add personality.
• Still avoid neon or shiny fabrics; they can wash out or look strange on camera.

• Steam your tie the night before (a wrinkled tie shows in photos).
• Practice your knot ahead of time. Stick to a classic four-in-hand or half-Windsor.
• Tuck your tie in place with a tie bar if allowed (helps with windy outdoor shots).
• Bring a backup tie if you're unsure or shooting outdoors. The photographer can help you pick!

From classic solids to sharp stripes and camera-friendly textures, we carry a wide selection of neckties perfect for senior portraits and yearbook day. Available in traditional and slim widths, plus multiple lengths for the right fit.

TieMart offers a wide selection of men's neckties, bow ties, and accessories perfect for senior portraits and yearbook day. From classic solids and subtle stripes to school-ready two-color ties and timeless patterns like paisley and plaid, there's something for every student's style. TieMart's affordable ties ship quickly from their Midwest location, making last-minute picture prep a breeze.