Q: Even if every day is casual Friday, arm yourself with at least eight. Wearing one
when it’s not required will keep your colleagues on their toes and score points
with the boss. Bonus: Women notice too. For inspiration, use this guide from
Andy Stinson, fashion historian and co-designer at Stinson R Ely.
A: POWER TIES (Key materials: silk, wool, cashmere)
THE BASIC PINSTRIPE Red, blue, and gold mean business.
THE SOLID It’s a go-to solution for that tough-tomatch patterned shirt.
THE DISCREET POLKA DOT Key word: discreet. Avoid contrasting colours.
THE BLACK SILK A good, safe option for a wedding or funeral, it’s an essential that flatters most men.
CASUAL TIES (Key materials: silk, cotton, linen)
THE FLORAL It takes confi dence to break out the blooms—wear it on a date with a black
jacket.
THE SKINNY Stick with solid colours or bold stripes for this 3-inch-wide (or skinnier) noodle.
THE SEERSUCKER Wear it with a lin en sport coat for a cool, casual look.
THE WOOL BLEND It’s more laidback than 100% wool. Wear a classic solid with a corduroy blazer.
