Tie fasteners like the tie pin and tie bar have been slowly creeping back into fashion. They used to be viewed as outdated accessories, but the 21st century man is rediscovering the benefits of setting off their ensemble and keeping everything firmly in place by wearing a tie bar or tie pin.
Of course, you might be unsure which type to go for. There’s no definitive right answer, but here are just a few signs you should go for a tie pin instead of a tie bar.
- The Tie is of a Thicker Fabric
The problem with tie pins is that they damage your tie whenever they are used. After all, they do pierce the fabric. However, this is only a problem when you’re dealing with thinner fabrics, such as silk. If the fabric is thicker, the marks left by the pin won’t be noticeable. Better yet, tie pins tend to look better embedded in a nice thick tie.
- You Want Your Tie to Stand Out
Tie bars can be a stylish accessory, but you’ll generally see them more in business environments than when you’re out on the town. If you’re going to be wearing your tie in the evening and want to stand out, a tie pin should be your go-to fastener.
- You’re Worried About Size or Placement
Here’s the thing with tie bars: they can be unexpectedly tricky to get right, and even the smallest error can see you destroying your look instead of enhancing it. You might pick up a clip that’s too long or short for your tie, or you might place it too high or too low. If you’re not confident placing a bar, opt for a pin. These are easy to place, and it’s impossible to get one that’s too thin or too thick.
- You’re Worried About Movement
Finally, you might want to consider a tie pin instead of a tie bar if you expect your tie to move around a lot during the day. One of the issues with a bar is that it can move up and down under repeated movement, and this creates a very untidy appearance. Because it’s securely fastened, a tie pin won’t move throughout the day.