Guides

Tie colour: what each colour does in conversation

Blue, red, grey, green: which tie colour suits which occasion, and which shirt combinations work.

Blue

Blue is the most frequently worn tie colour, for a practical reason: it does not conflict with the colours men's shirts usually come in. White and pale blue take it without complaint.

In conversation blue reads as restrained — it does not distract. In negotiations and job interviews that is usually what you want.

Red and burgundy

Red draws attention to the wearer's face. That helps when you intend to speak and be heard, and gets in the way when you are there to listen.

Dark burgundy is the more everyday version: the same warmth, less of a signal.

Grey, silver and cream

Restrained tones, worn above all at weddings and formal occasions. Silver and cream photograph lighter than they appear in the room — at a wedding that is an advantage.

Green, brown, bronze

Earth tones read as less corporate and more personal. They go well with tweed, flannel and anything that is not navy. In strictly formal settings they are unfamiliar.