How to Choose Lapel Pins for Men's Neckties

Ever stood in front of your wardrobe wondering how to make your suit stand out? Maybe you have a nice necktie and a few cool lapel pins but are not sure how to put them together. It can be tricky. You want your accessories to work together, not fight each other. Getting the right mix of a tie and pins is key.

This guide will show you how to pick the perfect lapel pins to go with your necktie. We will cover the basics, from matching colours to choosing materials. We will also talk about where to place your lapel pin for the best look.

The Basics of Lapel Pins and Ties

A lapel pin is a small accessory worn on the lapel of a jacket or coat. A tie is a piece of cloth worn around the neck. Together, they can add a lot of personality to your outfit. The goal is to make them look like a planned part of your style, not an afterthought.

Choosing the Right Pin for Your Necktie

The best way to start is by looking at your tie. Is it a solid colour, striped, or patterned? The design of your tie will help you decide what kind of lapel pin to choose.

🎨 Solid Colour Tie: With a plain tie, you have many options. You can use a patterned or brightly coloured lapel pin to create a focal point. A simple silver or gold pin also works well for a classic look.

🎨 Striped Tie: If your tie has stripes, a simple, geometric lapel pin is a safe choice. Avoid pins with complex patterns, as they can clash with the stripes. A small round or square pin often looks best.

🎨 Patterned Tie: A patterned tie, such as one with paisleys or dots, needs a simple pin. A solid metal or enamel pin in a single colour is a good option. The pin should not compete with the pattern of the tie.

Matching Colours and Materials

Colour is a big deal when you match a lapel pin with a tie and pins. A good rule is to have one item stand out while the other provides a base.

🛒 Contrast: A bright lapel pin on a dark tie can make a statement. For example, a red enamel pin on a navy blue tie looks sharp.

🛒 Harmonise: You can also choose colours that are similar or are next to each other on the colour wheel. A light blue pin on a dark blue tie is a subtle, elegant choice.

🛒 Materials: Lapel pins come in different materials. The material should match the feel of your suit and tie.

🛒 Metal: Gold, silver, and bronze pins are timeless. They go well with silk or wool ties.

🛒 Enamel: Enamel pins add a pop of colour and work well with cotton or linen ties.

🛒 Fabric: Fabric pins, like a simple flower, are soft and can add texture. They look great with tweed or textured ties.

Placement of the Pin

Where you place your lapel pin matters. The standard spot is on the left lapel of your jacket. It should be placed through the buttonhole, if your jacket has one. If not, you can simply pin it to the fabric.

🎶 High: Placing the pin higher on the lapel draws attention up towards your face.

🎶 Low: A lower placement is more subtle.

The key is to make sure the pin is not too close to the collar or too low down. It should be in a balanced position.

Types of Lapel Pins

There are many different kinds of lapel pins. Knowing the names can help you find what you are looking for.

Pin Type	Description	Best for...
Boutonnière	A single flower, real or artificial.	Weddings, formal events
Enamel Pin	A pin with a metal base and coloured enamel.	Casual wear, showing personality
Stick Pin	A long pin with a decorative top.	Classic, elegant looks
Brooch	A larger decorative pin, often with jewels.	Making a statement, formal outfits
Badge	A small pin, often for a brand or message.	Casual, everyday wear

Creating a Complete Look

Your tie and pin are not the only parts of your outfit. They should work with your shirt, suit, and other accessories.

👑 Shirt: A simple, solid colour shirt is the best background. A patterned shirt can make things too busy.

👑 Suit: A charcoal grey or navy blue suit is a great base for any tie and pin. They are neutral and make your accessories stand out.

👑 Pocket Square: You can coordinate your pocket square with your tie or pin. For example, if you have a blue tie, you can use a pocket square with a touch of blue. You do not have to match them exactly. A small detail is enough.

👑 Tie Clip: A tie clip can be worn with your necktie and lapel pin. Make sure the metals match. A gold tie clip with a gold lapel pin looks better than mixing metals.

FAQs about Lapel Pins and Ties

Q1: Can I wear a tie clip and a lapel pin at the same time? 

Yes, you can. It is a good idea to match the metal of the tie clip to the metal of the lapel pin.

Q2: Should my lapel pin match my tie exactly? 

No, it does not need to. In fact, it is often better if it does not. A bit of contrast or a similar colour is usually more stylish.

Q3: Can I wear a lapel pin on a casual jacket? 

Yes. You can wear a lapel pin on a blazer, a denim jacket, or even a casual coat. It is a great way to add a bit of detail to a simple outfit.

Q4: What side do I wear a lapel pin on? 

Most people wear a lapel pin on the left lapel. This is the traditional spot.

Q5: Are lapel pins only for formal events? 

No. While many people wear them for formal events, you can wear a lapel pin every day. They are a fun accessory for any occasion.

Final Thoughts on Tie and Pins

Picking the right lapel pin for your necktie is about balance. You want your accessories to complement each other, not compete. Think about colour, material, and placement. With these tips, you can add a new layer to your style. Remember, the goal is to look confident and put-together. A good set of a tie and pins can help you do just that.