A tie is to a suit like a cherry is to a sundae. You could go without, but it may seem like something’s missing. Picking out a tie can be the most fun part of getting dressed, and it helps to have a smart, varied collection.
A handsome, quality tie will stand the test of time and become a trusted wardrobe staple. We consulted men’s style experts on their favorite ties to suit a variety of occasions, from another day at the office to a charming night out. Consider adding to your collection as an investment in yourself.
Nordstrom Arana Dot Silk Tie
$49.50 at Nordstrom

“For men dipping their toe into print and pattern, small dots are the perfect way to experiment without taking too much of a style risk,” says Jian DeLeon, Nordstrom men’s fashion and editorial director.
Asos Design Textured Slim Tie
$20 at Asos

With a subtle textured design, this sage-green tie from Asos is suited for spring.
Asos Slim Tie in Navy Ditsy Design
$20 at Asos

This playful floral design is likewise ready for the change in season.
Nordstrom Cason Solid Knit Silk Skinny Tie
$49.50 at Nordstrom

“By now, every man should have at least one or two knit ties as part of his rotation,” DeLeon says. “It’s a foolproof accessory appropriate for anywhere.”
Tommy Hilfiger Men’s Slide Stripe Tie
$26.71 at Amazon

Tommy Hilfiger has been a trusted and affordable menswear brand for decades for good reason. This stripe tie is classic and comes in a variety of color combinations.
Tommy Hilfiger Men’s RWB Buffalo Skinny Tie
$26.71 at Amazon

This slim silhouette blends handsome colors in a bold pattern.
Bonobos Pink Crab Premium Necktie?
$99 $89 at Bonobos

Start dreaming of summer on the beach with this pink crab design from Bonobos.
Missoni 7-Centimeter Silk-Jacquard Tie
$118 at Mr. Porter

“There is something so timeless about a Missoni signature chevron design,” says Mr. Porter style director Olie Arnold. “Opt for a single-color shirt with this tie, as bold patterns like these need ample room to breathe.”
Lanvin Polka-Dot Silk Tie
$140 at Mr. Porter

“This Lanvin piece is perfect for giving your suit some Parisian flair,” Arnold says, adding that it pairs nicely with a crisp cotton shirt and a well-tailored blazer.
Kingsman + Drake’s 8-Centimeter Silk-Grenadine Tie
$155 at Mr. Porter

“Beautiful craftsmanship makes this tie agelessly elegant,” Arnold says.
Canali Medallion Silk Tie
$160 at Nordstrom

“This intricate yet versatile all-over medallion pattern easily transitions between casual and formal,” DeLeon says.
Eton Geometric Silk Tie
$155 at Nordstrom

“The iridescent hits of orange add just enough pop to this geometric print tie,” DeLeon says, adding it would pair well with a basic blue shirt.
Dries Van Noten Marbled Silk Tie
$215 at Nordstrom

DeLeon calls this marbled texture tie from Belgian designer Dries Van Noten “a piece of wearable art.”
Drake’s Navy, Brown and Pale Blue Stripe Repp Silk Tie
$225 at Drake’s

“Drake’s has a cult following for men’s accessories,” says Michael Williams, founder of men’s style destination A Continuous Lean. “The ties have a slight British or European point of view, but are extremely well-made and classically styled.”
Drake’s Wine Mini Floral Print Silk Tie
$225 at Drake’s

“You can’t go wrong with anything from Drake’s,” Williams says.
Brioni 8-Centimeter Paisley-Jacquard Silk-Twill Tie?
$240 at Mr. Porter

“A simple tie like Brioni’s is easy to style with any shirt and blazer combination,” Arnold says. “For a more contemporary style, create a textural contrast by matching the muted shades of this tie with a lilac pin-dot cotton shirt.”
Tom Ford 7.5-Centimeter Knitted Silk Tie
$245 at Mr. Porter

“Black ties are usually reserved for more formal occasions,” Arnold says. “This Tom Ford knitted piece is an exception. The Italian-made tie has a rich texture that pairs perfectly with simple tailoring for a sophisticated look.”
Zegna Stripe Silk Tie
$210 at Nordstrom

“It’s not just pinstripes that mean business,” DeLeon says. “This repp-stripe tie from Zegna does double duty at important meetings and special occasions.”