Before we dive in, it's important to understand what makes these ties the perfect starting point for any wardrobe.

First, their versatility is key—they work for a variety of occasions, from business meetings to weddings to casual events. These ties are also incredibly easy to pair with blue or white shirts, two of the most common and reliable shirt colors.

Additionally, they seamlessly match with solid or pinstriped navy or charcoal grey suits, which are staples in any man's closet. This combination of versatility, ease of pairing, and timeless suit compatibility makes these ties essential for any man looking to build a versatile and functional wardrobe.

The 5 Essential Tie Types Every Man Should Own

The best ties for men aren't just about what’s trendy—they’re about versatility, quality, and knowing how to match them with your attire. Here are the five essential tie types every man should own, each serving its own purpose for different occasions and settings.

Solid Navy Tie

The solid navy tie is a must-have in every man’s collection. Its classic and understated color makes it suitable for nearly every formal or semi-formal occasion. A navy tie exudes professionalism and sophistication, making it a go-to for business meetings, job interviews, and other corporate events.

Featuring The Dark Knot's Winsted Blue Silk Tie

Pair a navy tie with a grey suit and white shirt, and you’ve got a timeless combination that’s both professional and stylish. The navy tie can also work for more casual occasions, adding a refined touch when paired with a blazer and chinos. Its versatility extends to various fabrics, including silk for a sleek finish or wool for a cozier, textured look in cooler months.

Solid Black Tie

The solid black tie is synonymous with elegance and formality. It's essential for any man who needs a tie that works for the most formal events, like weddings, gala dinners, or black-tie events. The solid black tie pairs perfectly with tuxedos or dark suits, creating a sleek and sophisticated look.

Featuring The Dark Knot's Colebrook Black Silk Tie

In terms of versatility, while the black tie excels in formal settings, it’s important to note that it also provides an understated option for pairing with a navy or charcoal grey suit. Keep it simple with a white shirt for formal events, or add personality with subtle textures for less formal settings. The black tie always ensures you look sharp, regardless of the occasion.

Striped Tie

A striped tie introduces a dynamic element to your wardrobe. The striped pattern adds interest without being overwhelming, making it an excellent choice for business or semi-formal occasions. A classic regimental stripe in shades like navy and red can add a touch of personality to your business look, while still maintaining a polished appearance.

Featuring The Dark Knot’s Canterbury Regimental Stripes Navy / Red Silk Tie

Pair it with a white shirt and navy suit for a traditional yet confident appearance. For a more modern twist, opt for a diagonal striped tie with a grey suit for a stylish update. The striped tie is versatile enough to be worn in casual settings, pairing effortlessly with a blazer and dark denim jeans.

Please feel free to view The Dark Knot's incredible array of striped ties.

Patterned Tie (Polka Dot, Paisley, etc.)

Patterned ties, such as polka dots and paisley, are perfect for adding individuality and flair to your outfit. These ties allow you to showcase your style while maintaining elegance. Patterned ties are great for weddings, casual business events, and dinner parties.

Featuring The Dark Knot’s Exeter Paisley Blue / Brown Silk Tie

For example, a polka dot tie in navy paired with a white shirt and grey suit adds a whimsical touch without sacrificing professionalism. Paisley ties in rich colors like burgundy or emerald work wonderfully for evening events, giving you a more artistic, bold appearance. While these ties are best for occasions that allow a bit more personality, they can still be styled for more formal events when paired with solid shirts and suits.

Please feel free to view The Dark Knot's exquisite range of stunning Geometric Foulard Patterned Ties. 

Please feel free to view The Dark Knot's range of stunning Paisley Ties. 

Knitted Tie

The knitted tie is a more relaxed, yet still polished, option for smart-casual events. Made from silk or wool, knitted ties offer a unique texture that stands out from traditional silk ties. Their casual yet refined style makes them an excellent choice for casual business meetings, weekend outings, or dinners.

Featuring The Dark Knot’s Cherry Creek Stripes Knitted Silk Tie, Navy / Yellow / White

Pair a navy knitted tie with a grey blazer and white shirt for a stylish and approachable look. The knitted tie also works well with a casual shirt and chinos for laid-back occasions. During the colder months, knitted ties in deep burgundy or forest green are perfect for creating cozy yet stylish looks.

Please feel free to view The Dark Knot's range of exquisite knit ties.

Feel free to check out this highly insightful video by Real Men Real Style, highlighting 5 Essential Ties - that also incorporates our products!

Textured or Woven Tie

The textured or woven tie is another essential that adds dimension and character to your wardrobe. Made from fabrics like wool, linen, or silk blends, these ties offer a tactile quality that stands out in both formal and semi-formal settings. Their thicker texture makes them perfect for cooler months, providing a cozy, yet refined touch to your ensemble.

The beauty of a textured tie lies in its versatility. For a sophisticated, layered look, pair a dark wool tie with a charcoal suit and light grey shirt. This combination creates depth and adds richness to your outfit without overwhelming it. Alternatively, a woven linen tie can brighten up a spring or summer look when paired with a beige suit or navy blazer.

Textured ties are ideal for more casual, yet polished, business environments, especially when paired with less formal attire such as tweed blazers or casual suits. They bring an element of warmth and personality while remaining classic and understated. The subtle texture is eye-catching enough to stand alone but can also complement bolder patterns in shirts or suits.

Please feel free to view The Dark Knot's range of stunning Woolen Ties. 

How to Choose High-Quality Ties

The best ties for men are all about quality. When choosing a tie, you want to ensure it’s made from top-notch materials and built to last. To begin, you should consider the material. High-quality ties are typically made from 100% silk, although wool and cotton are excellent choices depending on the occasion. These materials not only look great but also feel good and are durable enough to last for years.

Featuring The Dark Knot’s Melrose Floral Burgundy / Blue Silk Tie

Next, pay attention to the construction of the tie. Look for hand-stitched edges, bar tacks, and gusset reinforcements—these elements ensure the tie will hold its shape and last longer, even with frequent wear. Additionally, when you hold a tie, check that the edge is smooth and flat. If it’s uneven, it’s likely poorly made, and you’ll want to choose a higher-quality tie.

A silk tie is always a safe choice and will improve the overall look of your business attire. Its sleek, glossy finish adds a touch of class to any outfit, ensuring you make the right impression every time.

Occasion-Specific Tie Recommendations

Different occasions call for different tie choices. Here’s how to select the right tie for various events:

Weddings: For daytime weddings, choose a pastel or floral tie, which are light and celebratory, offering a bright, fresh look. For more formal evening events, opt for a black tie or bow tie to keep things classic and refined.

Featuring The Dark Knot’s Bonita Springs Floral Skinny Polyester Tie, Cream / Red

●        Job Interviews: Stick to a solid navy or burgundy tie, as these colors communicate confidence and professionalism.

Featuring The Dark Knot’s Patterson Foulard Burgundy / Silver Silk Tie 

●      Funerals: A black tie or dark grey tie is the most respectful and somber choice, ensuring you show proper reverence.

●      Casual Events: Knitted ties or patterned ties work best for smart-casual events, adding a touch of personality without being overly formal.

Featuring The Dark Knot’s Rhinebeck Stripes Knitted Silk Tie, Brown / Red / White

For a wedding, a light grey silk tie or a floral pattern will help you look stylish and appropriate while maintaining a celebratory mood.

Please feel free to view The Dark Knot's incredible array of silk ties.

Expert Insights: What Menswear Pros Say About Ties

“A high-quality tie is the backbone of a sharp outfit,” says Rishi Chullani. Ties are an essential part of any wardrobe, and choosing the right tie can completely transform your look. By investing in high-quality ties, such as those from The Dark Knot, you’re making a smart choice for your wardrobe.

These essentials give you the power to walk into any situation looking your best, without overthinking it. At The Dark Knot, we offer a curated collection of luxury ties and accessories that combine timeless style, quality, and affordability.

And that's a wrap for this one. We hope that you have enjoyed reading this as much as we have writing it!