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A tie is to a suit like a cherry is to a sundae. You could go without, but it may seem like something’s missing. Picking out a tie can be the most fun part of getting dressed, and it helps to have a smart, varied collection.

A handsome, quality tie will stand the test of time and become a trusted wardrobe staple. We consulted men’s style experts on their favorite ties to suit a variety of occasions, from another day at the office to a charming night out. Consider adding to your collection as an investment in yourself.

Nordstrom Arana Dot Silk Tie

$49.50 at Nordstrom

Nordstrom Arana Dot Silk Tie

“For men dipping their toe into print and pattern, small dots are the perfect way to experiment without taking too much of a style risk,” says Jian DeLeon, Nordstrom men’s fashion and editorial director.

Asos Design Textured Slim Tie

$20 at Asos

Asos Design Textured Slim Tie

With a subtle textured design, this sage-green tie from Asos is suited for spring.

Asos Slim Tie in Navy Ditsy Design

$20 at Asos

Asos Slim Tie in Navy Ditsy Design

This playful floral design is likewise ready for the change in season.

Nordstrom Cason Solid Knit Silk Skinny Tie

$49.50 at Nordstrom

Nordstrom Cason Solid Knit Silk Skinny Tie

“By now, every man should have at least one or two knit ties as part of his rotation,” DeLeon says. “It’s a foolproof accessory appropriate for anywhere.”

Tommy Hilfiger Men’s Slide Stripe Tie

$26.71 at Amazon

Tommy Hilfiger Men's Slide Stripe Tie

Tommy Hilfiger has been a trusted and affordable menswear brand for decades for good reason. This stripe tie is classic and comes in a variety of color combinations.

Tommy Hilfiger Men’s RWB Buffalo Skinny Tie

$26.71 at Amazon

Tommy Hilfiger Men's RWB Buffalo Skinny Tie

This slim silhouette blends handsome colors in a bold pattern.

Bonobos Pink Crab Premium Necktie?

$99 $89 at Bonobos

Bonobos Pink Crab Premium Necktie

Start dreaming of summer on the beach with this pink crab design from Bonobos.

Missoni 7-Centimeter Silk-Jacquard Tie

$118 at Mr. Porter

Missoni 7-Centimeter Silk-Jacquard Tie

“There is something so timeless about a Missoni signature chevron design,” says Mr. Porter style director Olie Arnold. “Opt for a single-color shirt with this tie, as bold patterns like these need ample room to breathe.”

Lanvin Polka-Dot Silk Tie

$140 at Mr. Porter

Lanvin Polka-Dot Silk Tie

“This Lanvin piece is perfect for giving your suit some Parisian flair,” Arnold says, adding that it pairs nicely with a crisp cotton shirt and a well-tailored blazer.

Kingsman + Drake’s 8-Centimeter Silk-Grenadine Tie

$155 at Mr. Porter

Kingsman + Drake’s 8-Centimeter Silk-Grenadine Tie

“Beautiful craftsmanship makes this tie agelessly elegant,” Arnold says.

Canali Medallion Silk Tie

$160 at Nordstrom

Canali Medallion Silk Tie

“This intricate yet versatile all-over medallion pattern easily transitions between casual and formal,” DeLeon says.

Eton Geometric Silk Tie

$155 at Nordstrom

Eton Geometric Silk Tie

“The iridescent hits of orange add just enough pop to this geometric print tie,” DeLeon says, adding it would pair well with a basic blue shirt.

Dries Van Noten Marbled Silk Tie

$215 at Nordstrom

Dries Van Noten Marbled Silk Tie

DeLeon calls this marbled texture tie from Belgian designer Dries Van Noten “a piece of wearable art.”

Drake’s Navy, Brown and Pale Blue Stripe Repp Silk Tie

$225 at Drake’s

Drake's Navy, Brown and Pale Blue Stripe Repp Silk Tie

“Drake’s has a cult following for men’s accessories,” says Michael Williams, founder of men’s style destination A Continuous Lean. “The ties have a slight British or European point of view, but are extremely well-made and classically styled.”

Drake’s Wine Mini Floral Print Silk Tie

$225 at Drake’s

Drake's Wine Mini Floral Print Silk Tie

“You can’t go wrong with anything from Drake’s,” Williams says.

Brioni 8-Centimeter Paisley-Jacquard Silk-Twill Tie?

$240 at Mr. Porter

Brioni 8-Centimeter Paisley-Jacquard Silk-Twill Tie

“A simple tie like Brioni’s is easy to style with any shirt and blazer combination,” Arnold says. “For a more contemporary style, create a textural contrast by matching the muted shades of this tie with a lilac pin-dot cotton shirt.”

Tom Ford 7.5-Centimeter Knitted Silk Tie

$245 at Mr. Porter

Tom Ford 7.5-Centimeter Knitted Silk Tie

“Black ties are usually reserved for more formal occasions,” Arnold says. “This Tom Ford knitted piece is an exception. The Italian-made tie has a rich texture that pairs perfectly with simple tailoring for a sophisticated look.”

Zegna Stripe Silk Tie

$210 at Nordstrom

Zegna Stripe Silk Tie

“It’s not just pinstripes that mean business,” DeLeon says. “This repp-stripe tie from Zegna does double duty at important meetings and special occasions.”