Tip-of-the-Day: Compliment, Don't Match

There is virtually an unlimited number of options when choosing shirt/tie/pocket-square color combinations. In order to limit the options and make easier decisions, most men "match" the color(s) in their shirt to the color(s) in their tie, and do the same with their pocket square. Light blue striped shirt = light blue pindot tie. Solid pink shirt = pink striped tie. In my opinion, this is amateur dressing...it's the easy way and rarely makes for an interesting outfit. Furthermore, if your tie came with your shirt in a box-set as pictured below, you really need to rethink your wardrobe.

Few men really understand color, but those that do also know that complimentary colors can transform an outfit. Try a dark green tie with a pink striped shirt, or a purple tie with a light gray striped shirt. It's really a process of trial and error. Hold up several different ties to your shirt and see how it looks...soon enough you'll get the hang of it. You don't need to be safe and pick matching colors.

When in doubt, here is a fool proof recipe: light shirt, dark tie. Works everytime.

Yours in style, Style Blogger