The Aesthetics

As with most pieces of clothing, there are prescribed rules that exist for how neckties should be worn. These rules vary depending on where the tie is being worn and, of course, by personal taste. The necktie is now worn in a variety of situations, no longer only reserved for formal events or business meetings. For this reason, it is difficult to prescribe specific rules. However a few suggestions have been outlined below.

General guidelines and rules include:

1. Tie length: The corners on the bottom of your tie (the widest area on the tie) should rest at about the top of your belt, with the tip hanging slightly below.

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2. Never wear a tie with a short sleeved shirt. If you get warm, roll up your sleeves. The correct practice of this is to roll at the elbow, no higher or lower than that.

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While this rule may be debated by some, most style guides strongly speak out against this dress practice. Short sleeves create a much less professional look. Just don't do it. Don't become a Dwight. 

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3. Avoid the novelty prints. Having a subtle pattern on a tie can be a good thing.... Unless it includes a character from your favorite Saturday morning cartoon. Often, ties are worn to make a person look more professional. Unless you're a professional toy maker, plain ties may be your best bet.

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4. When wearing a tie bar, it should be buttoned between the third and fourth buttons. If you don't feel comfortable with tie bars, it's generally best to avoid them. 

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5. Speaking of tie bars, it is important to use the appropriate size for your tie. One author suggests that that bar is 3/4 in. of the tie. Otherwise it may look gaudy and defeat the purpose of the tie bar. 

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By following the prescribed guidelines, individuals are seen as more professional. Deviating from these rules may result in appearing less credible in the workplace. It may also cause one to appear less affluent. 

That's not to say that everyone will have a negative experience when deviating from these practices. As mentioned before, there is wiggle room for personal interests and expression. These rules are for the general population and uses of neckties.