Choosing the right tie is more than picking a colour, length and width play a crucial role in proportion and style. The right tie complements your suit, balances your frame, and ensures a polished wedding look in photos and in person.
At Swagger & Swoon, we offer skinny ties (6 cm) and regular ties (7.5 cm), available in regular length (145 cm) and extra long (170 cm). Custom sizes are sometimes also available for unique requirements, making it simple to find a tie that suits your build, knot style, and personal preference.
Slim vs Classic Fit
Skinny Ties (6 cm) are sleek, modern, and youthful. They work best with narrow lapels, slim-cut suits, and contemporary wedding styles.
Regular Ties (7.5 cm) provide a classic, timeless look. They suit wider lapels, traditional suits, and more formal or elegant weddings.
Guideline: Match tie width to lapel width. Skinny ties look awkward with wide lapels, and regular ties can overwhelm narrow lapels.
How to Choose the Right Length
Tie length affects how the tie sits once tied. The tip should generally hit the middle of your belt buckle.
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Regular length (145 cm): Works for most grooms, including those up to about 6’2” depending on knot style.
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Extra-long (or 'XL') (170 cm): Ideal for taller individuals or when using larger knots like a Full Windsor.
Pro tip: You don’t always need an extra-long tie for a Windsor knot. For example, a groom who is 5’9” can comfortably tie a Windsor with a regular 145 cm tie.
Suit Compatibility
Tie width and length should harmonise with suit cut, lapel style, and wedding formality:
Tie width and length should work in harmony with your suit’s cut, lapel style, and the formality of your wedding. Skinny ties pair best with slim suits and narrow lapels, creating a modern, streamlined look, while regular-width ties complement classic or wider-lapelled suits for a more timeless, formal appearance.
Taller grooms or those opting for larger knots may benefit from an extra-long tie to ensure the drape falls correctly, while shorter grooms can usually stick with the regular length. By considering both lapel width and suit style, you can ensure your tie proportions look balanced, polished, and appropriate for the occasion.
Optional Quick Reference Table
| Tie Width | Tie Length | Best For | Lapel Type | Knot Suggestion |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 6 cm | 145 cm | Slim/slim-fit groom | Narrow lapels | Four-in-hand or small knots |
| 6 cm | 170 cm | Tall groom | Narrow lapels | Larger knots (Windsor) |
| 7.5 cm | 145 cm | Most grooms | Medium/wide lapels | Four-in-hand or Windsor |
| 7.5 cm | 170 cm | Tall or larger groom | Medium/wide lapels | Full Windsor or Double Windsor |
Custom Sizing Options
For grooms who don’t fit standard sizing or want a specific knot style, custom-length or custom-width ties are available. While these aren’t stocked in every colour, they ensure a perfect fit for your frame and style. Drop us a message and let us know what you're looking for!
FAQs
Q: What’s the best tie width for my body type?
A: In general, while skinny ties (6 cm) suit slim frames; regular ties (7.5 cm) suit most people. Match tie width to suit lapel width for balance.
Q: How long should a wedding tie be?
A: The tip should touch the middle of your belt buckle. Regular length (145 cm) works for most; extra-long (170 cm) is ideal for taller grooms or large knots.
Q: Do I need an extra-long tie for a Windsor knot?
A: Not necessarily. Many grooms, even those using a Windsor knot, can use a regular tie. For example, a 5’9” groom tied a full Windsor with a 145 cm tie at his wedding with no problems at all.
Q: Can I order a custom tie length or width?
A: Yes! Custom sizing is available for unique builds or knot preferences, though not every colour is offered in custom sizes.
Q: Can I mix skinny and regular ties across the wedding party?
A: Absolutely - just keep width proportionate to lapels and consistent style across groomsmen for a cohesive look.
