Saturday, April 18, 2020

The Necktie: A Must Have or Optional?




There was a time when wearing a necktie was an absolute must for a man especially when working in a professional setting. While there are still certain professions that still require a necktie be worn such as most banking positions and jobs related to law, for the most part it seems that it's become optional in most fields or for most events. Considering it's no longer entirely necessary, is wearing the optional necktie advantageous in any way or is it something you can pass on?

I think the answer is yes, it can be beneficial to wear a necktie occasionally or even daily if you enjoy wearing one. 

Wearing a tie, in most cases, conveys a message of respect and formality. You're a guy who appreciates tradition and stays within the boundary of the rules. People might even treat you differently because with the tie you appear safe; perhaps even more approachable. Interestingly enough, on days which I'm wearing a tie people are more likely to smile and approach me.

Perhaps it is because in their mind someone wearing a suit and tie deserves respect and even admiration. Maybe it reminds them of something familiar, and therefore, they are more receptive to the look.

I would consider a tie essential when meeting a client for the first time, giving a professional presentation, or going to a formal event. For this reason, I think every guy should own at least three or four neck ties (a couple solid and a striped or two). 

And remember: If you wear a necktie, make sure to also wear a tie clip. It should go slightly under the third button of your shirt.

So yes, having at least.a few ties is crucial.

But what happens if you choose to forgo the tie?

Personally, I LOVE the look. Nothing beats wearing a three-piece suit without the necktie. It says that you're still classy and eloquent, but also a free-thinker. Someone who isn't afraid to bend the rules a bit when necessary. You're less conventional, and while you still understand the rules of wearing a suit, you're not afraid to alter the appearance to your liking. Not wearing a tie conveys a sense of rebellion.

Of course, you will still get attention and even possibly compliments while not wearing a tie, but it is a different kind of attention than what you will get while wearing one. You see, not wearing a tie makes it a bit harder for people to assess you. They might wonder if whether or not you are safe or approachable. There is a sense of ambiguity in the outfit, and it could either make you appear more debonair and alluring or just straight-up unapproachable. 

That is why I think it is crucial to wear a tie during very important interactions; interactions in which you want to appear familiar to other people.

Personally, I have about fifteen neck ties, which is strange because I typically go with the latter appearance (no tie). I don't like to let people easily figure me out, rather I like to try to be a bit more mysterious. I think ties can be a really fun accoutrement when appropriate, but I'm not a fan of wearing one everyday.

But if that's your thing then go for it!  

Whether you are more of a tie person or someone who prefers to leave the collar button undone, what message does wearing a tie/not wearing one convey to you. Let me know in the comments or send me an email at tnpersona@gmail.com.

-Ryan S.

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