How to Wear a Tie Clip

Tie clips (or tie pins), tie tacks, and tie sliders all serve the same purpose. But they can create different looks for the well-dressed gentleman.

In this article, the Hisdern team answers five of the most common questions about these accessories:

1. What is the purpose of a tie clip?
2. What is the difference between a tie clip, tie pin, tie clip, tie slider, and tie clip?
3. Where is the correct position to wear a tie clip?
4. How to Wear a Tie Clip
   
5. Which tie accessory goes best with which tie fabric or color?

1. What Is a Tie Clip Used For?

A tie clip (also known as a tie clip/tie pin/tie slider/tie clip) is a functional decorative accessory, usually made of metal, used to fix a tie.

A tie clip is beautiful and practical, protecting your tie from damage while dining, working or dating, and keeping your tie straight at 6 o'clock no matter how you move or how the wind blows.

2. What Is the Difference Between a Tie Clip, Tie Pin, Tie Clip, Tie Slider, And Tie Clip?

Tie clips and tie pins are the same thing, as the name implies, they both have a sharp part that pierces the tie to secure it to the shirt. Sometimes, a tie clip or tie clip comes with a chain that can be passed through and fixed in the buttonhole to lock it in place.

There is a difference between a tie clip and a tie clip, though. A tie clip (see the picture below) has a small hinge that clasps the tie and shirt flap when open and holds them together when closed.

On the other hand, a tie clip (also called a tie bar) is a single piece of metal that uses tension to hold your tie and shirt together, just like a money clip.

3. Where Is the Correct Position for the Tie Clip?

Whichever way you choose, the vertical position of the tie accessory is roughly the same.

Depending on your height and the cut of your jacket, you should attach your tie to the third and fourth buttonholes of your shirt or in the middle. If it is too high, the tie will not be fully fixed; if it is too low, the tie will be hidden by the jacket.

The tie clip or tie pin should be attached from the right side of the tie to lift the collar. For the same reason, the tie clip or tie pin should be attached in the middle of the tie piece.

4. How to Wear a Tie Clip

Tie accessories add polish and sophistication to a well-dressed gentleman's formal attire.

The length of a tie clip or tie bar is crucial. As a general rule, choose an accessory that covers 75% of the width of the tie piece. Too long or too short will look off-kilter. If you prefer ties of varying widths, consider having several matching tie clips or tie bars in your tie collection.

When worn with a waistcoat, tie accessories are often worn underneath the waistcoat to enhance the look rather than distract from it. But this is a matter of personal preference - if it completes the look, wear it with confidence and don't mind appearing rude.

Men who prefer a traditional look may choose simple jewelry, such as plain rectangles, monogram prints, or solitaires.

Men who prefer a modern look can go a little bolder - showing their personality with interesting shapes, unique materials, engraved text, and other conversation-provoking ways.

5. Which Tie Accessories Go Best with Which Fabric or Color of Tie?

A tie clip, tie bar or tie bar won’t damage your tie, but a tie clip or tie pin will leave tiny holes in it. This is a practical reason why tie jewelry is only used for more formal occasions. However, with the right fabric or color, your tie won’t fray.

Cashmere, wool and silk are smart choices for tie clips and tie pins because these fabrics are coarser or have a looser weave. Tightly woven fabrics, such as cotton and blends, are less ideal. Dark colors are also easier to match than light or bright colors, and large prints are easier to match than fine prints.

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Have any questions about tie jewelry or other great accessories? Feel free to contact us or find us on social media—we’re on Instagram, Facebook and YouTube. Want to share your stylish looks? Tag us with #Hisdern when you post on your channel!