Post
by ausoccer19 » Tue Apr 13, 2010 2:28 pm
Another rule of thumb that has generally held true and aligns with both generational and traditional style: the widest part of the tie should be about the same as the widest part of the lapel. If the lapel on your suit is 3" wide, your tie should be pretty close to this. A 3 1/2" lapel with a 2 1/2" wide tie will look disproportioned, and vice versa. The widths should match closely to maintain proportion. This is not to say you should try to find a suit with 1 1/2" or 2" lapels just so you can wear a skinny tie, but a skinnier tie of 2 1/2" or so is usually fine so long as it reflects or complements the proportions of the suit. If you notice the above pictures, their ties are very broad, as are their lapels. Obviously, this is not as stylish today, at least for people under 40, so keep that in mind.
Also, the width of the tie does depend somewhat on body type, as does the collar. Skinnier ties naturally look more fitting on someone of a smaller stature. Not to say that the person who posted above at 5'7" has a small stature, thats somewhat average, but depending on height/weight proportion, the tie should width should vary accordingly. The skinnier you are, the skinnier you can afford your tie to be (though anything less than 2 1/2" is seldomly justified). Similarly, if you have a wider or rounder face, the a wide-spread collar is suggested to keep the proportion. Similarly, if you have a skinny face, a narrow collar is called for to reflect your features. To avoid conflict though, play it safe for an interview, and once you have the job you can somewhat push the boudaries of personal style while staying moderately conservative.