The Ultimate Guide to Shopping for a Tie for a Wedding

Dress your best before you *tie* the knot.

Photo: Stocksy

Updated Apr 23, 2025

To tie or not to tie, that is the question. Choosing a tie for a wedding—or opting to go without a tie—can be a daunting process. Whether you're the groom, a groomsman or a wedding guest, there are certain rules when it comes to wedding dress codes that dictate whether or not a tie is needed. From knowing what kind of tie to wear, where to buy a tie, and how to tie a tie, there are quite a few points to consider when looking into tie etiquette. To help guide the process, we spoke to Michelle Kohanzo, president at The Tie Bar, for her expert insight on wedding tie etiquette. From whether or not a tie is necessary to the best places to shop for ties, we've outlined everything you need to know about men's wedding ties.

In this article:

FAQ About Choosing a Tie for Wedding Guests & Grooms
Where to Buy Wedding Ties

FAQ About Choosing a Tie for Wedding Guests & Grooms

Understanding when wedding ties are needed and the types of ties can be confusing, but don't worry, we're here to help! Below, we've answered some commonly asked questions about ties that will help inform your wedding attire.

Do I have to wear a tie for a wedding?

When deciding whether to wear a tie to a wedding, whether as the groom or a guest, it all ties back to the dress code. A wedding dress code for guys is a bit more structured than those for women, and usually directly addresses whether a tie should be worn. Take black-tie optional, which literally notes that wearing a bow tie is optional. You may also choose to wear a suit and forgo a tie altogether for weddings that have a more casual or semi-formal dress code.

"The answer really depends on how formal the event is; a beach wedding may be very laid-back with ties optional, whereas a black-tie event requires a tie," Kohanzo explains. "A tie is always traditional for both the groom and guests. With the tie trending again amongst the current fashion set, there is no better time to knot up."

Should I wear a tie or bow tie to a wedding?

A common dilemma for wedding guests is deciding between a tie and a bow tie. Traditionally, a bow tie is worn with a tuxedo for more formal events, such as black-tie or white-tie wedding dress codes, though you can also opt for a bow tie for less formal weddings if that is what aligns best with your personal style. If you're really stumped, it doesn't hurt to reach out to the bride or groom and ask for further clarification on the dress code.

"A bow tie is typically reserved for more formal events, but can also make a style statement in a more laid-back ensemble," Kohanzo says. "Wearing a beautiful black-tie with a tuxedo is a beautiful modern alternative. Menswear dress codes of late really encourage healthy style experimentation and aren't as rigid. When in doubt, opt for personal preference and ask a friend or the groom for a second opinion."

What kind of tie should a groom wear?

Traditionally, the groom and groomsmen wear ties to the wedding, no matter the dress code. "It is traditional for the groom to wear a tie that complements the colors of the bride's bouquet and/or the colors of the wedding party," Kohanzo shares. "For a less formal look, it is fun to play with a small pattern, maybe in floral. Accessories are a fun way to add a pop of color or pattern without going overboard. Don't be afraid to have fun with it! For a formal event, black-tie or very formal, white is best."

What are the best tie colors to wear to weddings?

While you can never go wrong with a classic black or navy blue tie, we suggest leaning into the colors of the season when choosing men's wedding neckties and suit colors for a fun pop of color in your wedding guest look. If you're bringing a date to the wedding, it's also a great idea to coordinate a color scheme—it'll look amazing in all your photos!

"For spring and summer weddings, soft palettes in blush, butter or pale blue are lovely. In the fall and winter, jewel tones are a beautiful choice, think burgundy, hunter green and deep marigold," Kohanzo offers. "Butter is having a huge red-carpet moment as well; it's definitely a color we've been seeing trend for us across the board."

What is the proper tuxedo and tie etiquette?

When deciding on what to wear to a wedding, men will have to choose between a tuxedo versus a suit. Again, this all comes down to the wedding dress code. A tuxedo is typically worn only for black-tie and white-tie weddings. A tuxedo is much more formal than a suit, and is often made with satin detailing and accessorized with a bow tie and cummerbund. Tuxedos are also worn with a specific kind of tuxedo dress shirt that differs from your typical button-down. A suit is less formal, but is more versatile and can be worn for most wedding dress codes and formal events. A suit can be dressed down for various events, while a tuxedo is reserved for special occasions, which is why men typically choose to rent a tuxedo.

"Traditionally, a tuxedo is worn with a bow tie, but more and more grooms are opting for a beautiful black silk tie, as a modern twist on a classic look," Kohanzo shares. "Again, use your best judgment, but don't be afraid to take risks as well; there is no better way to feel special in your formal look."

Where to Buy Wedding Ties

Ties for a wedding are often purchased in the same places to buy suits. The options, price point and style can vary by retailer, so we've broken down eight of our favorite places to buy or rent ties for the big day.

The Tie Bar

Based in Chicago, The Tie Bar offers shoppers premium-quality menswear at "wallet-friendly prices." While you can shop online, they also have in-person stores where you can try on ties and get expert styling advice from their employees. Their website also has The Combo Bar, which features prestyled looks. Their ties are under $80, with plenty of options available for under $30. Their wide range of colors, prints and materials makes them the perfect choice for wedding guest, groomsman and groom attire. Use our exclusive code TIEBARxKNOT15 for 15% off your order.

How to shop: Buy
Tie prices from: $24

Birdy Grey

Fan-favorite bridesmaid dress retailer Birdy Grey has expanded its offerings to include wedding neckties, so the whole wedding party is covered (use the code TIEONEON for 20% off when you buy four or more groomsmen ties). Their seemingly endless selection of $19 ties comes in solid colors that match the Birdy Grey bridesmaid dress colors, making them the perfect option for wedding parties. Plus, if you sign up for emails, you'll receive a free tie with any suit purchase!

How to shop: Buy
Tie prices from: $19

The Black Tux

The Black Tux is your one-stop shop for wedding guest attire. With the option to rent or buy, you have the flexibility to choose which option makes sense for you. They offer tie rentals starting at $10 and ties available for purchase starting at $30. The Black Tux is a great option for those who want to rent a tuxedo and bow tie for black-tie or white-tie weddings. Your rental will arrive 10 days before the event, and you have three days to return it afterward, plus you get free returns and exchanges. The Black Tux is based in Los Angeles, but has locations nationwide as well as an online shop.

How to shop: Rent or Buy
Tie prices from: $10

Indochino

Indochino offers customers a premium made-to-measure suiting experience at ready-to-wear prices. While their ties are not made to order, their precision and attention to detail are apparent in all of their product offerings. Their stylish selection of bow ties and ties for weddings comes in endless colors and prints, so there's truly something for everyone.

How to shop: Buy
Tie prices from: $49

Jos. A. Bank

Jos. A. Bank has everything you need to look your best, whether as a groom, a groomsman or a wedding guest. Since 1905, the team at Jos. A. Bank has offered customers beautifully made, tailored and casual men's clothing and accessories, as well as exceptional customer service. They offer more than 200 different ties online, with many of them also available for purchase at their numerous in-store locations.

How to shop: Buy
Tie prices from: $40

Suitsupply

As the name suggests, Suitsupply is best known for premium men's suiting and accessories. Their stylish ties are made of high-quality Italian-sourced fabrics, including pure silk ties and bow ties. Choose from solid colors or subtle prints for an elegant and understated wedding look. You can shop online or visit one of their stores in New York, Dallas or Los Angeles.

How to shop: Buy
Tie prices from: $49

Brooks Brothers

Established in 1818, Brooks Brothers has been a trusted retailer for casual and tailored clothing for more than 200 years. While their area of expertise is custom-made-to-measure men's and women's clothing, you can complete your look with one of their many ties or bow ties for your next wedding. Best known for preppy styles, Brooks Brothers carries both timeless, elegant styles as well as ties with nautical and whimsical motifs, such as sailboats or bees.

How to shop: Buy
Tie prices from: $99

Nordstrom

If you're not sure where to start your search for the best wedding ties, Nordstrom offers a wide array of options from various brands, including BOSS, David Donohue and Canali, as well as their own assortment of Nordstrom private label ties. From simple solids to eye-catching patterns, Nordstrom offers a wide selection of ties to complete any wedding look. Shop in person at a Nordstrom store or shop online and get free shipping.

How to shop: Buy
Tie prices from: $20