How to Wear a Tie Bar
The tie bar is a piece of men’s jewelry that dates back to around the turn of the 20th century. In the last few years it has made a major comeback. A tie bar, the small clip that fastens your tie to your shirt is of our favorite instant upgrades.
It keeps your tie from moving but also adds a stylish detail to your standard shirt-and-tie setup. But you need to make sure you’re wearing it the right way.
Here is a guide on how to wear the tie bar!
Match the tie bar to the outfit:
A metal tie bar in plain silver or gold is generally a stylish choice. Consider how the bar could influence your outfit: a pattered clip can make a plain outfit more interesting, while a simple metal clip may tone down a busy-looking tie.
Try to match the clip to the metal details of your outfit—a watch, jacket buttons, cufflinks.
If you don't have any metal to match go with silver.
A loud tie bar probably isn't appropriate for a somber event.
Tie bars should not be worn with a vest, waistcoat, or buttoned cardigan.
Choose the type of bar based on the weight and width of the tie:
Opt for a slide clasp to keep your skinny tie smooth and flat. With wider and heavier ties, a pinch clasp will work best
Select a tie bar that is between 1/2 - 3/4 the width of your tie:
Never wear a tie bar that is longer than the width of your tie. It's considered a major fashion faux pas. This is one of the only real "rules" when it comes to accessorizing with a tie clip.
Try holding the bar against your tie where it falls at the third or fourth button of your shirt. If it looks too long, you'll need a different clip.
For a retro look, you can get away with a tie bar that is the exact width of your tie, but no longer.
Wearing the tie bar properly:
Open the tie bar and slide both the front and back of your tie, plus the placket of your shirt into it.
Make sure the tie is actually clipped to your shirt.
Clip the tie between the third and fourth buttons of your shirt, or around the middle or bottom of your sternum. Too high makes the tie clip use
less, too low hides the clip behind your jacket.
Check that the tie bar is perpendicular to your tie. It should always be straight across, not angled up or down.
Tip:
Take the top half of your tie and pull it up slightly, so that it's not pulled tight against your chest. It should puff up and forward slightly. This adds some depth and personality to your look, and may make the tie feel less constricting!