Most guys, myself included, have a rotation of two suits that come out on special occasions, be it Royal Ascot or summer wedding season.
For this reason, it feels hard to drum up excitement for slipping on the same constricting clothing year after year. Our advice? When you’re wheeling out the tailoring yet again, change up a few details. It could be a different coloured shirt, a new silk tie, fresh cufflinks, or even a new tie bar.
The latter is one of the easiest ways to take your look up a notch. It’s a simple adornment that adds masses of character – and you can choose one that says a lot about who you are. If your style tends to be low-key, maybe an understated pin is more your vibe, wheras a branded clip may be better suited if you’re fashion-conscious. Or, if you’re a classic dresser, a simple stainless steel bar à la Mad Men’s Vincent Kartheiser will be more your speed.
There are some simple sartorial rules to follow. First up, positioning. In general, it’s best to place it between the third and fourth buttons of your dress shirt. If you’re wearing a jacket, it should sit a few centimetres above the closure – simply adjust accordingly. For styling inspo, Daniel Craig’s James Bond is a great starting point – he always gets it spot on.
Then, there’s the width. It should always be a little shorter than your tie. The same width is also passable, but it should never be longer – thankfully we’re past the indie sleaze skinny tie era so this should be simple to follow. Though some say you can wear them at an angle, we’d recommend sticking with 180 degrees for a sleek and elegant finish.
So, whether you’d prefer a budget-friendly option from Marks & Spencer or would rather invest in a sterling silver design by jewellery designer Tateossian, we’ve rounded up a selection to suit every taste and budget.
Keep scrolling for our top pick.
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Burberry Check Engraved Palladium-plated Tie Bar
If you’re into fashion, perhaps a tie bar by one of the top houses would suit. Enter Burberry’s palladium-plated checked design, which offers an understated nod to the brand without being showy.
Buy now £230.00, Burberry
Hugo Oval-Shaped Tie Bar With Engraved Logo
Everyone knows Hugo is a go-to for suiting – all the trimmings included. The arm of the Hugo Boss brand which is aimed at a younger crowd, the collections and accessories tend to be more trend-led. From the embossed logo to the gold-tone finish, this clip is a case in point. Perfect for those who prefer gold jewellery.
Buy now £49.00, Hugo Boss
Simon Carter Adagio Tie Slide Navy
From the enamel resin to the flared edges, Simon Carter’s slide is a mid-century inspired take which would look best with a classic navy suit – and the subtle geometric pattern takes it to the next level.
Buy now £30.00, John Lewis
Cartier Santos de Cartier stainless-steel and palladium tie clip
Since it’s an accessory you’re likely to keep in your collection forever, investing in luxury could be worth it. Cartier’s Santos clip would be our top pick. With the same motif that’s used on the Love Bracelet, it’s an understated flex.
Buy now £380.00, Selfridges
Moss Silver Brushed Tie Clip
If you’re in the market for affordable tailoring which delivers quality, Moss is the brand for you. This tie bar is a great example. It’s a simple, understated take which would work with any suit.
Buy now £19.95, Moss
Vivienne Westwood Mini Bas Relief Tie Clip
Give your look a punky touch with Vivienne Westwood’s iconic orb and saturn motif – which was actually created by Vivienne Westwood herself back in the 1980s. Now all you need is the check suit to match.
Buy now £60.00, Vivienne Westwood
Reiss Ardley Mother Of Pearl Tie Bar
For those in the midst of wedding planning, a great tie bar for the groom or groomsmen is this mother-of-pearl design by Reiss. The delicate iridescent finish will add the final flourish to the proceedings.
Buy now £68.00, Reiss
Tateossian Diamond Textured tie clip in sterling silver
Since jewellery designer Robert Tateossian is a silversmith by trade, it makes sense to choose sterling silver when shopping his collections. He actually started his label as a cufflinks brand, so he’s well-versed in suiting accessories. This classic bar features a finely engraved diamond pattern which delivers interest without pulling focus.
Buy now £245.00, Tateossian
T.M.Lewin Gold Textured Tie Slide
Considering the textured effect and yellow gold-tone hue, it’s hard to believe T.M.Lewin’s tie slide costs just £12.50. Another strong option for those who are loyal gold devotees.
Buy now £12.50, T.M.Lewin
Marks & Spencer Stainless Steel Tie Pin
As the official designer of the England football team’s suits for the Euros 2024, Marks & Spencer is no stranger to sharp suiting and that extends to accessories with aplomb. Crafted in stainless steel rather than brass, it’s a great value option. Better yet, it’s good for sensitive skin.
Buy now £12.00, Marks & Spencer
