A Complete Guide on Where, When, Why, and How to Wear a Tie Clip

A tie clip, also known as a tie bar, tie clasp, or tie slide, is a metal accessory that has a dual purpose: to dress up the tie in a stylish way and to keep it securely in place against the shirt. It also keeps the tie in line when you lean forward. 

Despite its effectiveness, you rarely see men wearing a tie clip. Yes, it’s not an easy business. That’s why we invite you to discover our complete guide on where, when, why and how to wear a tie clip.

The tie clip appeared at the beginning of the 20th century. It was inspired by the tie pin, an old-fashioned accessory that existed during the time of royalty in France and England. 

Why Wear a Tie Clip?

The tie clip is a convenient accessory that keeps your tie clean and prevents stains at dinner. Apart from its functionality, it is also considered a stylish accessory. Elegant and representative, this small detail will enhance your look. A tie clip will also help if your shoulders are uneven by straightening your tie. This accessory is especially recommended if you are not wearing a jacket or suit to avoid an unsightly appearance.

Types of Tie Clips

Generally, there are two types of tie clips:

• Slide-on clips
• Clip-on clips

The first type is a U-shaped metal band that slips over your tie and shirt tabs to hold them together in place. It works best with thin fabrics and slim ties. The second type is for knitted or felted ties. If you wear clip-on ties with a delicate fabric tie, you risk creasing or damaging it. 

There are also representative tie clips, such as models with logos of an organization, group, team, or company to which the wearer belongs. A tie clip can also promote an idea or indicate membership in a club or organization.

Where does a Tie Clip Go?

There is no rule on deciding how you want the tie clip to sit on your tie. Many people choose to wear their tie clips about midway down the blade of the tie. Another popular option is wearing the tie clip closer to the bottom tip of the tie. 

You will also need to consider how wide your tie is when making this decision. The general rule of thumb is that the wider your tie, the lower you should wear the tie clip.

How to Wear a Tie Clip?

If you are wondering how to put on a tie clip, start by holding it in front of your necktie with the teeth pointing downwards. Then, slide it up towards the top of the tie until it is in the position you want. Make sure that you do not accidentally catch any fabric in the teeth of the clip as you are doing this. Once the tie clip is in place, simply squeeze it closed so that it stays put.

Things to Consider Before Putting on a Tie Clip

To wear your tie clip properly, you need to know a few rules. 

Position and the size of tie clips 

You should always adapt the length of your tie clip to the width of your tie. It should not be wider than the tie itself (¾ of the width or a little more). In general, tie clips come in two lengths: long for standard or wide ties and short for narrow or slim ties. Of course, you can’t wear the same model with a traditional tie and a slim tie.

A tie clip should not be worn too high or too low. In the first case, it loses its functionality and no longer serves to hold your tie, and in the second case, it is no longer visible. Therefore, the ideal position is between the third and fourth buttons of your shirt. 

If you want to give your tie a slightly loose and stylish look, then lift the tie before you secure it with your tie clip. This trick also prevents the clip from appearing to pull on the tie.

Be careful! Your tie clip should be perfectly horizontal for a clean and neat look. 

Gold tie clip with patterns

$21,05

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Glossy black tie clip with patterns

$21,05

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Glossy black tie clip

$21,05

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Dark grey shiny tie clip with stripes

$21,05

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Black tie clip with stripes

$21,05

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Tie clip with black and silver stripes

$21,05

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Our Tie Clips

Tie clip colors 

• Gold and silver are the most common tie clips. You can combine gold metal with red, black, burgundy, grey, and green ties. 
• If you prefer silver tie clips, choose blue, black, purple, and pink ties.
• If your tie is patterned, striped, polka-dotted, checked, or floral, choose the tie clip according to the dominant color of the tie! 

You can also match it with the other accessories of your look, such as cufflinks or a belt buckle. Be careful! Never wear striped tie clips with a striped shirt or tie, as patterned tie clips are for plain shirts and ties.

If you want to add a bit of fun to your outfit, go for the fancy tie clips. They’re perfect for a modern look but also for starting conversations. Go for an original design. For example, tie clips in the shape of a mustache have been very trendy in recent years. There are also models in the form of a gun, a musical instrument, glasses, a shark, scissors, etc. You can also have your initials, first name, or other words engraved on your tie clip. 

Materials of tie clips 

There are several different materials that can be used for tie clips, including metal, plastic, and wood. When choosing this accessory, you should consider function, shape, and durability.

The most common types of tie clips are the following: 

• Alloy tie clips
• Brass tie clips
• Stainless steel tie clips
• Solid silver tie clips
• Tungsten tie clips
• Titanium tie clips

When to Wear a Tie Clip?

The answer is simple: every occasion, except a funeral. You just have to choose the tie clip according to the event. Weddings, birthdays, conferences, job interviews, parties: the tie clip can be worn in all circumstances.

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Should you Wear a Tie Clip with a Vest?

The consensus is that you should not wear a tie clip with a vest. The logic behind this is that the vest already provides sufficient structure and support for the tie, so adding a tie clip would be superfluous.

Additionally, some people believe that wearing a tie clip with a vest can look “clunky” or “awkward.”

Where to Buy a Tie Clip?

When shopping for tie clips, it’s essential to keep in mind the style and color of your outfit to choose one that goes well with your outfit. At BoldlyTrendy, you will find a wide and diverse range of tie clips. Pick the one you like the most!