Striped Shirts

Printed shirts are where things start to get interesting. Standard colour rules still apply for classic striped shirts but because you have already introduced a pattern, the design you opt for on your tie needs a bit more consideration.

Block-colour ties are the obvious go-to – whether in similar, contrasting or complementary shades – but when you want to branch out into pattern mixing there is just one key rule to remember: always vary the size/scale of the patterns you combine.
For example, thin striped shirts should be combined with larger patterned ties and wide striped shirts (think butcher’s stripe) should be paired with smaller, more intricate motifs.
Stripes also work perfectly well with other stripes, again, so long as they aren’t the same size. For instance, why not try a thin pencil stripe shirt with a larger club stripe tie? Pick out the colour of the pencil stripe with one of the colours on your tie and it suddenly helps pull your entire look together – showing you are a man that pays attention to detail.
Another great tip here is to simply vary the orientation of the stripes you combine. For instance, a vertical striped shirt can be paired with a horizontal or diagonal striped tie. This offers a clear contrast and helps to differentiate each piece.
Otherwise, polka dots, paisley and geometric designs are all fair game. It all comes down to personal preference, so try out different pattern combinations and see what encapsulates your personality and approach to style best.