The basic neckties in a wardrobe should be solids, for the same reason that the first couple of suits should be solid colors, and that is to minimize the frequency of "Didn't he wear that necktie last time?" thoughts by his observers. Solid does not however mean boring. Many of the world's best dressed men have worn little but solid neckties, as attested by today's photographs of men in roles that were definitely not dull.
The role of the necktie you see is to contrast with the wool of the jacket and this is done with more sophistication using texture rather than color. Woven silks are better than printed for that job, and in my opinion the core of a tie wardrobe should be comprised of silk knits, grenadines, satins and oxfords in black, silver and navy. Especially navy. Indeed, a black knit, a black and a silver grenadine and four navy ties in the aforementioned weaves will get a man through his life and do it quite stylishly. Whether they form the basic core of a necktie wardrobe or suffice without further supplement is merely a matter of personal preference.
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I'm getting there, Will. Just order two "sample" grenadines from Sam Hober, hope to have them next month in time for summer wear.
Appreciate any reference you can make for Sam Hober; it was difficult to communicate with them.
Useful as solid ties are for those still working, they are a bit formal for those of us who have reached the time of life when every night is Friday night and every day is Saturday. I have some and likely will acquire more but not in any great profusion four navy ties? A bit much, IMO.
Personal taste Sarj. Throw in Tussahs and cashmeres and I probably wear a dozen different navy solids.
Will,
After almost a lifetime of trying to find the right stripe or pattern in the right color, I have acquired six solid navy neckties in different weaves. They go with any color jacket, be it suit jacket or sportcoat, and make any striped shirt look better.
For years I eschewed the solid necktie, as it does not generally suit my clothing personality. I have acquired a few recently, and wear them on occasion, now that I am older and look better in more understated attire than I once did, but still prefer stripes and neats and plaids.
Having said that, I love my new silk knitted tie—in navy, of course. Extremely versatile.
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