Dress Responsibly: Minding the Fine Line Between Festive and Flamboyant
By Katharine Swan

You know the type: the guy who wears the same, boring suits, day in and day out.  You don’t want to be that guy.  On the other hand, neither do you want to be the kind that never seems to have any sense for what is appropriate, the kind that leaves a trail of chuckles in his wake wherever he goes.

Everyone likes “fun” ties – holiday-themed ties, ties with bright colors and unusual patterns – but not everyone knows how to wear them responsibly.  Here are a few tips for making sure the joke’s not on you.

Match the tie to the outfit.  A “fun” tie needs to complement the overall look, or it will only end up looking tacky.  For example, a themed tie that generates laughs and compliments when paired with slacks and a sports coat may look silly when worn with a suit – and when you’re wearing a suit, “silly” is the last impression you want to give.

Match the tie to the occasion.  Before choosing a “fun” tie to complement your outfit, be sure that the tie will set the right mood for the occasion.  For instance, a Christmas-themed tie might not be appreciated at a Hanukkah celebration, just as a Halloween-themed tie would probably be frowned upon in church.  On the other hand, most people enjoy a sports-themed tie on game day, a holiday-themed tie during the corresponding season, or any outrageously “fun” tie for a party, Casual Friday, or any other similar-minded occasion.

Make the right impression.  If you’re hoping to make a good impression on a particular person, it might be wise to rein in your wilder side a little.  It’s probably not a good idea to wear an obnoxiously funny tie to an important meeting at work, even if it is Casual Friday.  And although your tie may evoke laughter from the ladies, will they really want to go home with someone whose clothing reveals a complete lack of taste in humor?

Consider the dress code.  There are times when a brightly colored or loudly patterned tie might not be appropriate.  For example, a conservative venue might not look very kindly upon a tie that features cartoon characters or sports logos.  In general, themed or humorous ties will get the best response in relaxed business settings, parties, festive dinners, and other occasions where the goal is to have fun.

It may help to think of it this way: save your humorous and themed ties for the people and places who will appreciate them.