Solid Color
Necktie

Solid color neckties are - well obvious.  all solid color neckties are one color and are an easy way to match or compliment any outfit.

Foulard
Necktie

The foulard pattern is generally a neat geometric repeating pattern and is appropriate for business or other formal settings.

Pin Dot
Necktie

A pin dot necktie is generally a pattern of very small tiny repeating dots over the entire necktie.  The pin dot necktie makes a wonderful compliment to a striped or solid color shirt.

English Regimental
Striped Necktie

Stop and take a close look at this pattern. The English regimental stripes are diagonally placed from the lower left to the upper right.

Polka Dot
Necktie

Polka dot neckties generally have a pattern of either neat or scattered large dime shaped polka dots.  The polka dot necktie goes well with a plaid or checkered shirt because of the contrast in patterns that it creates.

Repp Striped
Necktie

A repp necktie is really a weave and not a pattern.  A repp weave is a subtly raised weave which creates a ribbing - or a texture which then a pattern of stripes is woven into.  The repp necktie is more about weight and feel, though it does create a wonderful depth to the finished tie.

American Regimental
Striped Necktie

Look closely at this pattern and you will notice that the American version of the regimental striped tie has diagonal stripes running from the upper left to the lower right.  This pattern is the reverse of the English regimental pattern seen above.

University Striped Necktie
Also Known As The College Tie

The university striped necktie has a pattern of diagonal stripes in equal size.  Every stripe is the same size, but generally every other other stripe has a color much like you see in this illustration of a navy blue tie with white stripes.  The university striped tie is another staple for the businessman.

The Novelty Necktie

The novelty necktie, well - you know - has nothing serious about it but rather has a fun or whimsical image.  These neckties while not always appropriate for every office, are a nice touch for every wardrobe.

We hope this chart clears up some of the mystery on necktie styles and patterns.  Your life is complete!  Now that you have a fairly good idea on how to tell the different necktie patterns apart - go out and purchase one or two neckties to wear.