Tie Bar Guide: 5 Rules To Observe When Wearing Tie Bars

I’ve seen a lot of guys wearing their tie bar the wrong way, it’s either it’s too high or too low or not just the right length. If you are a sharp dressed gentleman, you should at least know the rules of ties and how to wear a tie bar.

We’ve already covered the rules of ties earlier on this blog. Today, I’m here to give you the rules of tie bars and to tell you that there is a right way to wear this classic menswear accessory. I’m also going to show you how … but first of all, for the sake of those who don’t know what this fashion accessory is, let’s try to explain its function. Shall we?

WHAT IS A TIE BAR?

A tie bar (also known as a tie clip) is a menswear accessory which is used to clip a tie to the underlying shirt in order to keep it in place and prevent it from swinging.

Well, the above definition explains the traditional use of the tie bar, but like most stylish gentlemen are aware of, this timeless menswear accessory can also be used to make a fashion statement. We’ll get to that in a bit, but, don’t you think it’s important to know the origin of this stylish piece of accessory?

So let me give you a brief history of how it came about.

ORIGIN OF THE TIE BAR

They became popular in the 1920s about the same time there was the introduction of straight neckties made of light materials such as silk. Prior to this time, the tie pin was the popular accessory used to hold or secure the folds of cravats – which was the forerunner of the modern tailored neckties. So we would be right to assume that the tie bar came to replace the tie pin.

Enough of the history now. I hereby present to you the 5 Style Commandments that you should observe when wearing a tie bar. Amen to that!

Related: Collar Pin Guide:  A Timeless Accessory For Extraordinary Gentlemen

 

5 STYLE COMMANDMENTS TO OBSERVE WHEN WEARING A TIE BAR

1: THOU SHALL PLACE YOUR TIE BAR IN THE PROPER POSITION. PLACEMENT IS EVERYTHING

Your tie bar should go between the third (3^rd) and the fourth (4^th) button of your dress shirt. In addition, it should be horizontally placed (across the tie) – not diagonally or vertically. As you wear your tie bar, ensure you frequently check to see that it’s still well-positioned horizontally across the tie and in the right position.

2: THE TIE BAR MUST BE CLIPPED TO THE PLACKET OF YOUR SHIRT

Most guys I’ve seen wearing the tie bar would ignore the placket of their shirts and clip only the tie leaving it to swing in the breeze. That’s a wrong way to wear it. You should ensure you clip both sides of the tie to your shirt.

Definition of Placket: This is the area at the center of your dress shirt where the buttonholes are located.

You should also read this: Bracelets | Stylish Piece of Accessory For The Modern Gent

3: SIZE MATTERS. NEVER FORGET THIS

Oh it does indeed!

Here is the basic rule: Your tie bar should never be wider than your tie. To put it simply – Thou shall not wear a tie bar that is longer than the width of your tie.

Tie Bar is too long … and Yeah… the tie is also too long

4: COLORS MATTER. HOWEVER, KEEP IT SIMPLE

They can come in different colors – silver, gold, blue, red, black etc. However, silver or brushed nickel is a classic color which goes with anything and looks great on anyone.

If you are choosing any other color asides silver, ensure it complements your entire outfit and other accessories you are wearing – but try to keep it simple. For gold and silver, it’s always best to match it with the metal bit of all other accessories like the belt buckle, blazer buttons, signet ring,  watch and cuff links.

5: KNOW WHEN TO (AND WHEN NOT TO) WEAR A TIE BAR

Remember we’ve said it before – A tie bar is used to clip a tie to the underlying shirt in order to keep it in place and prevent it from swinging. Ok, so this means that it shouldn’t be worn if your tie is already in place. True? Correct!

Then you should think twice before attempting to wear a cardigan, vest or waistcoat with a tie and tie bar. These menswear pieces are definitely going to keep your tie from flapping around. So, why wear add a tie bar? – unless of course, you intend making a fashion statement, which by the way, I am not against. But make sure you can pull off the look effortlessly without looking like someone who is trying too hard.

A Must Read: 10 Accessories Every Gentleman Must Have in His Wardrobe

FINAL THOUGHTS

Having learned how best to wear this classic menswear accessory, feel free to try it out next time you suit up. It’s going to enhance the look of your necktie and elevate your entire look, I promise.

I’ll be waiting to hear the feedback…Drop me a comment below.

Until you hear from me again … stay classy!

Yours in Style,

Kobi O. Mbagwu [Mr. Kobi]

Founder, MrKoachman.com

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Mr. Kobi

My name is Kobi O. Mbagwu, a professional image consultant, menswear style expert, and entrepreneur who uses fashion, style and clothing as key tools in transforming ordinary men into extraordinary classy gentlemen. My personal goal is to help gentlemen dress better, live well, do well and develop a unique personal style that matches their lifestyle and goals. I believe that success can be built through style. I believe that fashion is a tool that can be used to change people’s lives positively. I also strongly believe that if you dress well, you look good, and if you look good, you feel good and when you feel good, you worry less, and the less you worry the more you are able to stay motivated and focused on your goals pursuit and by so doing you are able to live a more fulfilling and successful life.

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