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A Look at Obama’s Attire During The Inauguration Ball

Change has been the motto for Obama during his entire campaign. A motto that was also evident when looking at his and his wife’s, Michelle Obama’s, wardrobe during the Inauguration Ball last night. While classic White Tie Attire consists of white bow tie, white waist-coat, black tailcoat tuxedo, and wing-tip collar dress shirt, President Obama added a modern, slightly more casual touch to the most formal of all dress codes.

For the traditional and conservative white-tie advocate, his outfit might have raised an eyebrow. Younger, and more fashion-forward oriented people on the other hand appreciated his less-rigid look. Although his dinner jacket was classy and formal, it did not have the old-fashioned look that a tailcoat would have had. The white bow tie was matched with a classic tuxedo shirt. Again, the pleats in front of the shirt, and the black studs used to button the shirt were formal but not as rigid looking as a waistcoat in combination with a wing-tip collar shirt. It was a classy look that, although not exactly white tie for say, was formal and simply elegant.

His attire was also a great match next to his wife’s dress that was also, as already expected from her, quite fashion-forward. Michelle Obama wore a white one-shoulder gown designed by Jason Wu.

If you liked this article, you might also like:
A look at President Obama’s Neckties
Obama’s Acceptance Speach Necktie

Your Cheap Neckties Team

Most Formal Dress Code: White Tie Attire

Unfortunately most of us will never get invited to an event requiring us to wear a so-called “white-tie attire”. This type of dress code is the most formal dress code there is, and it is typically associated with high governmental functions and galas.

What is White Tie?
As the name suggests, white tie requires you to wear a bow tie that is solid white in color. Compared to black tie attire, also a formal type of dress code, white tie attire is different in a few other ways:

1. Tailcoat jacket:
   A so-called tailcoat jacket is a must for white tie attire. Tailcoats are shorter on the front than a traditional tuxedo, and extend to your knees at the back. The color is black and tailcoat jackets are made from finest wool. The front of the jacket is also left unbuttoned.
2. Wing-tip Dress Shirt:
   White tie attire traditionally requires a so-called wing tip dress shirt. Wing tip shirts have the tips of the collar flipped over. Unfortunately Mr Bush didn’t follow this rule.
3. Waist Coat:
   A white waist coat, either single or double breasted is required for white tie affairs.

How NOT to Wear White Tie
If you like to see a few paux pas on white tie attire, look at Mr Bush in the picture left. First, the waist-coat is too long. It should not extend below the jacket. Second, the pants are not tailored correctly. They should be hemmed slightly higher up the leg. Third, he should be wearing a wing-tip dress shirt. And finally, the cuffs of the shirt should extend out of the jacket by about 1/2 inch.

While men are required to follow a quite strict dress code for black tie affairs, women have a little bit more flexibility. A full length dress is a must. Also, the dress should be classy and rather more conservative than trendy.

Another formal, and slightly more common type of dress code, is called black tie. If you are invited to a black tie event a classic black tuxedo, black bow tie, and cummerbund or vest make up the typical outfit. You might also like this brief article on: Styles of formal “black tie” dress shirts.

Your Cheap-Neckties Team

Finding the Appropriate Necktie

In business wear consisting of traditional suit, shirt, and tie, it is the necktie that allows for the widest range in color choices. Whereas the suit is typically gray, charcoal, or navy, and the dress shirts mostly white or blue, it is the necktie that gives you the option to add more color to your outfit. How much color you want to add depends on your color profile, the time of the year, and the occasion you are dressing for.

The less of a contrast (difference of light and dark) between your hair and your skin tone, the less of a contrast you should choose in your shirt, suit, and tie. As far as time of the year is concerned, choose brighter, more vivid colors in the spring, while choosing more muted shades in the fall and winter. Finally the occasion: For conservative business choose traditional necktie colors such as navy blue and burgundy. For formal events at night choose solid black or silver neckties. For formal events during the day and in warm weather, choose solid color ties in lighter pastel colors such as lime green, light blue, peach, yellow, and pink.

On a final note, think about what a color represents before wearing it. A bright red tie can have an “alarming” effect that could potentially cause anxiety. Shades of green as well as blue on the other hand are considered more soothing colors. The US Navy for example switched their night-lighting in their control rooms in the 1960 exactly for this reason. After researching the effects of colors on people they decided that red lighting was not a good choice. Red caused more stress in people which in turn affected the ability to make good decisions. Today the night lighting at the bridge of US Navy ships is a calming blue. The effects colors have on people is something to think about when picking your ties.

For more information to match your neckties you might also find helpful: Tips to Match Your Neckties

Your Cheap-Neckties Team

Traditional Wedding Neckties

If you are looking for the right ties to outfit your wedding party, then Cheap Neckties is the right place for you. We not only carry most of out popular wedding neckties in stock, but we also ensure that we always have at least 10 of each style available to ensure that you can get enough ties for your entire wedding party.

If your wedding has a particular color theme, then chances are you will find tie perfect pieces of neckwear when looking under our neckties sorted by color selection. Simply click on the color that best described your wedding theme and browse through our selection of fine silk ties. If you are a little uncertain about the color, simply order all the ties you like, then chose the best match, and send teh rest back to us. At Cheap-Neckties.com we have a very flexible return policy. Simply send the (unworn) ties back to us and we will refund your purchase.

One of the most popular wedding color is an off-white ivory. The color shade varies from a platinum champagne over to a classic cream color. Below are some classic wedding neckties we recently added to our selection of formal neckties.

Champagne Color Necktie
This tie has a stunning, formal design – perfect for the festive occasion. The fine stripes on this tie are in the same champagne color, and are created by a special weaving technique of the silk. The tie has a beautiful shine, and very soft feel. A truly beautiful tie that matches well with any cream, champagne, and ivory wedding theme. To check the quantity available on this tie, simply give us a call. We will be delighted to help! To see a larger image, and to purchase this tie, please click on Champagne Color Wedding Silk Tie.

Paisley Wedding Necktie
If the narrow striped necktie or solid color tie is too plain for you, then this alternative option might just be what you have been looking for. An intricate design of fine paisleys on an ivory-cream background gives this tie a very traditional and formal character. The paisley design originated during the Safvid Dynasty of Persia (1501-1736). The paisley was, and still is, a symbol for life and fertility. To have a more detailed look at this tie, as well as top purchase this necktie, please click on Paisley Design Wedding Necktie.

We hope you find the ties you like, if you are a little uncertain about a color match, or would like advice on where to find the right neckties for your wedding give us a call at: 888-927-6065. We are looking forward to hear from you!

Can You Wear Jeans to Work?

If you work in a relaxed office environment, than chances are that suit and tie are not part of your daily work attire. Although casual workplaces are usually more relaxed they offer the option for some very dreadful and career harming, fashion choices. Before you choose to wear your jeans to work, there are a few things to consider:

Your Company Culture & Dress Code
Even though most companies don’t have a “written dress code” a non-written one exists in most industries. Before showing up too casual, something that can be seen as disrespect to your job by superiors, it is advisable to check on what attire is considered acceptable. Don’t look at want your peers are wearing, but choose your superiors as a role model when it comes to office dress code.

Can You Wear Jeans to Work?
Even if you find that jeans are acceptable at your work place, there are a few things to consider in the choice of denim you choose. First off, your torn designer Jeans, no matter how stylish they are, is a big no-no at work. Instead choose dark colored denims. Dark colored jeans are more professional and they look more refined when worn with a blazer and dress shoes. Light colored jeans may look outdated or a little too casual.

Which Jeans are Best?
Straight cut jeans are still the best for your “office jeans”. Straight cuts permit you to pair them up with different kinds of footwear – from loafers to dressy oxfords. You can always improve your look with progressive shoes such as dress sneakers from Ferragamo or Hugo Boss. Choose footwear that compliments the rest of your outfit, not only in color, but also in design and cut. A sporty pair of loafers would be out of place with a suit and tie, but might opt for an excellent choice in combination with our dark blue denims.

The Right Fit
Differentiate your jeans between “office jeans” and jeans you wear out to a tendy bar on weekends. What they have in common are that they are both blue and made from denim, bit that is about it. Your “office jeans” should fit well – neither too loose nor too tight in the seat. Look for a nice-fitting pair of chinos and use it as a guide in finding denim that you can wear for work. Then look for add-ons that are trendy but still conservative enough for “office wear”. So-called “Trigger jeans” that have an antique wash are a good example -they give just enough style for you to appear contemporary but are just conservative enough for work.

Add more Class with the Right Accessories
Combine your jeans with a nice pair of leather loafers, a button up dress shirt, a nice belt (one that matches your shoes, and a set of cufflinks, and your overall look is stylish and “business-trendy”. A nice skinny necktie might also be a good choice. Best suited are skinny ties for taller, thin-built men.

The DON’Ts of wearing jeans to work
Leave your “clubbing” jeans in your closet! Jeans with excessive stitching on the back that highlights certain parts of your body, torn jeans, and jeans with excessive “wash” must be left at home. In addition make sure that the jeans fit properly and are not too tight or too baggy.

Your Cheap Neckties Team

Are Loafers Appropriate to Wear For Business?

You have been flipping through magazines and noticed that loafers have become quite popular. So you went out and bought a pair for yourself. Chances are that like most men, you find liking not only in the style, but also in the convenience of not having to tie any shoe laces. Before you slip them onto your feet on your next day to the office there are a few things you should know.

Think About Your Office Dress Code
Loafers are much more casual than dress shoes that you tie up with shoe laces. So before you wear your new slippers into work, think about how conservative your office dresses. If your boss always dresses in suit and tie with matching black dress shoes, than leave your loafers at home. Remember that you go to work to get the job done, and not to make a fashion statement. On the other hand, if you office has a little more laid back dress code, then loafers might just be perfect for the job.

Different Styles of Loafers
As a general rule, the less decoration on the shoes (such as tassels), the less formal they will appear. Another factor affecting the formal look of your shoes is the color. Only choose black or a shade of brown! The darker the color, the more formal the shoe. Finally look at the sole of the shoes. A flexible rubber sole that reminds more of sneaker than dress shoe, will down-play the formal look.

Loafers and Suits
For classic dark suit with neckties, DO NOT wear loafers. Only formal loafers in dark chestnut brown, with decoration and a dressy leather sole are appropriate to wear with lighter suit colors such as tan, blue, or beige. Loafers are a lighter form of footwear and also well suited in warmer weather common in spring and summer.

Care For Loafers
As any leather shoe, loafers will need to be taken care off to ensure they keep their shine and shape. Before you wear the shoes, spray the leather with a weather protective spray. Also, as with all other leather dress shoes, use shoe trees after each wearing, and shine your shoes on occasion with shoe polish. Here is some more information on how to care for dress shoes.

Your Cheap Neckties Team

Sport Jackets Vs. Suits

Almost any men’s fashion magazine, weather it be a GQ or a Men’s Health, will feature an advertising with a model wearing a sports coat. If you ever thought about wearing a sports coat to work, then reserve it for casual Friday attire. Otherwise, unless you work in a nonsuit company, the answer is no. John T Molloy’s has gathered a great amount of research on different outfits worn to work. In his book “New Dress For Success” he writes that: In every competitive test I have ever conducted in middle American industry, using such standards as integrity, ability or even “Which man would you want as a friend?” the suit has won hands down. So unless you work in a nonsuit company, the sport coat is something you want to reserve for casual wear or casual Fridays at best.

The only time a sports coat is appropriate and acceptable, according to Molly’s study, are high tech and engineering companies. As a good rule of thumb: If your CEO doesn’t wear a suit, then also leave your suit at home. You will be obeying the first rule of dressing for success -you will be following the leader. The only exception to this rule applies if you work in a field where you have a high interaction with clients and customers and you are being consulted for your expert opinion. Accountants and lawyers are a great example. Especially in those industries, clients have been conditioned to only trust suit wearers with important issues which they do not understand themselves.

Your Cheap Neckties Team

Jennifer Aniston’s Necktie Found a New Neck

As you might have heard, Jennifer Aniston was posing on the cover on GQ magazine with nothing more but a necktie. Now we heard the news that Jennifer Aniston’s Necktie found a new home in David Letterman’s wardrobe.

Mrs Aniston appeared on Letterman’s show and brought him an early Christmas present – the tie she wore in the photo shoot with GQ magazine. Now, we wish we had this tie in our store – probably wouldn’t be selling it for $5, $10, or $20 though…

Hanging a Suit: Tips on Storing a Suit The Right Way

No matter how tired you are after a long day of work, it is important to take the extra minute or two to hang your suit onto a hanger. I think we have all failed to do this before, but simply throwing the jacket, pants, and shirt over a chair will add more headache later on. Doing this can cause the suit to wrinkle, and even worse, it might ruin the the suit’s shape permanently. Below are a few tips on how to hang your suit the right way. Doing this will not only keep the suit wrinkle and odor free, but will also protect the fabric.

The Right Hanger
The most important thing when choosing a hanger for your suit is the hanger’s shape. When your jacket sits on the hanger, no pointy edges should be visible in the shoulder area, and the neck should be free from wrinkles and crevices. Best are thicker, wooden coat hangers. The shoulder area should be at least 2-3 inches wide, and the hanger should be long enough so that the ends get close to the shoulder section of the jacket. There are three different type of hangers: The first is the classic coat hanger that has no cross bar on the bottom used to hang your pants, the second type of hanger is more suited for suits. It has a crossing bar underneath the hanger that is designed for hanging your pants. Make sure that the cross bar on the hanger is not too narrow (no wire) since this might create a fold in your trousers. Also the cross bar is ideally coated with a rubber type material that will prevent your pants from sliding and falling onto the floor of your closet. The third hanger uses clips to hang the pants alongside. If your closet is long enough, then this is the preferred hanging method.

How to Hang Jackets
Before hanging your jacket check for any stains. If you see any bring it to a dry-cleaner. Leaving stains in your garments for a long period of time will make it much harder to get the stain out later on. If you don’t treat the stain as soon as you notice it, chances are you might just forget about it and get surprised next time you want to wear the suit.

When hanging a jacket make sure to leave it on the hanger for at least 24 hours before wearing it again. This will allow the fibers to relax into their original shape. In addition hang your jacket in a well ventilated area, free from moisture, dust, and direct sunlight. Doing this will allow the fabric to “breathe” and odors and perspiration will be disappear. Once you hang your clothes in the closet, leave at least 1 inch between each garment to allow for “breathing” room. Also, remove any plastic covering while storing your suits. Plastic keeps the natural fibers from breathing which is helpful. The plastic bags are great for traveling and will help keep your clothes wrinkle free. Plastic also contains petroleum products, which can emit gases over time and can discolor fabrics. On a last note, don’t close the buttons on your jacket of vest while on a hanger. Let the garment hang in it’s natural, tailored shape.

How to Hang Dress Pants
Just as you did with the suit, check for any stains before hanging your trousers. Hang your trousers in a well ventilated area for at least 24-hours before storing them in your closet. Either hang your trousers along-side starting from the cuffs (using a clip-hanger), or folded over the cross-bar underneath the hanger. What ever method you choose, make sure to hang the pants in a way that is consistent with the cut. Keep your pants close to the matching jackets to make finding your outfit much easier.

If you found this article helpful, then you might also like the following related articles:
How to Iron a Dress Shirt
How to Clean & Store Your Silk Ties

Your Cheap Neckties Team

Understanding Dress Shirt Sizes For Men

Going shopping for dress shirts without knowing your shirt size can be quite time consuming. Before you unwrap each dress shirt and try it on, get to know what size you need first. Once you know the right measurements, chances are you will not even have to try a dress shirt on before you buy it. It will be as easy as buying produce at your local grocery store. Just pick the colors and patterns you like and add them into your shopping cart.

General Shirt Size Information
Men’s dress shirts are measured by the collar width. The larger the collar size the longer the sleeve will be. In almost all cases, knowing your collar size is enough to find the right fitting shirt. Besides collar size think about what style of shirt you like. If you are tall and/or have a more athletic build then choose a more tailored dress shirt. For heavier build men the standard “American” dress shirt cut will most likely be the best choice.

Making Sense of Different Measurements:

• US & British Shirt Sizes:
  US and British shirt measurements are exactly the same. They are measured in inches. A size 14 up to size 15 dress shirt is considered Small. 15 1/2 to 16 1/2 is considered Medium Size. Size 17 to 18 is Large, and everything above an 18 inch collar is considered Extra Large. If you have a larger collar size chances are you might also need longer neckties. Click here to see our full selection of extra long neckties.

• European and Japanese Sizes:
  European and Japanese shirt measurements are also related to the collar size. The measurement is in metric centimeters. Simply multiply your US shirt size by 2.54 and you will have your European shirt size. If you don’t have a calculator, then good general rule to know is that European sizes are 22 more than U.S. (round UP).

• Korean Sizes:
  Korean sizes use neither centimeters or inches. If you want to know your Korean shirt size, then all you need to do is to add +2 to your US shirt size.

So before going shopping measure your collar size. It is up to you weather to choose inches or metric centimeters. An inch is 2.54cm. So if you multiply your collar size in inches by 2.54 you will have the European/Japanese measurement. This little bit of math will make shopping much easier when on travel overseas.

Your Cheap Neckties Team