Hands down one of the hardest-working accessories in the fashion game is the humble necktie. Whether you had that one uncle with the light-up “novelty” tie, or the clip-on you wore as a kid, neckties have still been stylish for centuries. But, it was the advent of the free-wheeling 1920s when the necktie, as we know it today, caused a minor sensation. Mass manufacturing also gave guys quite a few more options, too. Bold colors and bright prints were a welcome antidote to the more somber colors men sported up until that time.   

When you’re out shopping at Goodwill you should always take a look through the ties we have for sale in the men’s department. You never know what you’ll find, but I always look for interesting prints; and usually when I turn them around I find a designer, or brand name of some kind, on the label. This week I wanted to show you how transformative the right kind of tie can be. I chose six ties and used one dress shirt in a light pink and a fitted black sport coat to illustrate.

What to look for:

• Small floral prints (Lord and Taylor tie)
• Matte rather than shiny ties (matte always looks more rich)
• Wild, but fun prints in bright color for a summer-fun tie (bright Hawaiian tie, Liberty of London paisley tie)
• Any tie that has a red print or background (red always works for a tie, and can be matched with so many colors of shirts)  (Christian Dior tie)
• Graphic prints (Clubfellow tie)
• Watercolor like prints (American Eagle tie)