How many times have you woken up in the morning, opened your wardrobe and stared at its contents for minutes on end wondering what tie you might wear with the shirt you decided to put on? Creating the perfect match is never easy but there are a few things to consider to make sure the pairing works and avoid unlikely combinations to ruin a day in the office, a job interview or an important occasion.

Reda shares all the secrets to matching your tie to your shirt.

1. Plain shirts

If you decide to go for a solid color shirt, you will have quite a few tie options to choose from.You may pick a style in a matching tone to infuse your look with a modern touch that will be perfect for elegant occasions. Or you may go the daring route by choosing a printed tie, just as long as the color of your shirt complements the palette.

2. Check shirts

If you decide to put on a check shirt, the tie you pair it with could reflect your bold mood by sporting some stripes. In this case, it is crucial that the stripes be of a different size than the checks on your shirt. If you feel more comfortable with a more discreet look, make yours a plain tie; the solid color will tone down the shirt’s pattern.

3. Striped shirts

Are you fond of a striped shirt? Then select a tie crafted from an ornate fabric and you will be sure to make a statement. In this scenario, you should also pay attention to the size of your tie’s pattern and make sure the shirt’s stripes are of different proportions. Alternatively, pick a plain tie in a color other than that of the stripes.

4. The right combination for your skin tone

Less obvious but just as relevant, your skin tone plays an important part: for darker and olive complexions, it is best to go for strong contrasts (for instance, a solid white shirt with a black, blue, red or green tie). For lighter skins, the best option is to choose more harmonious pairings (such as light blue shirt with a navy tie).

5. Consider the context and occasion

Lastly, never forget the context. When matching a tie to a shirt for a formal occasion, such as an important client meeting or a job interview, we suggest a classic and understated combination, with solid hues or variations on the same color. For a more informal occasion or a romantic date, it is best to let your personality shine and be a little more daring by pairing a striped or check shirt with an elaborate or printed tie.