Sometimes it seems like men have fewer options than women. After all, the suit-and-tie combo is a lot like a uniform and has been the classic go-to for a long time. But for men who want to showcase their personalities, there is one accessory that encourages guys to really express themselves — and that’s their choice of neckties.

To take advantage of it, however, you’ll need an understanding of how to choose that tie so that it that expresses personality and matches the occasion. This guide can help you find the right tie, whether you’re looking for funny necktie designs for a casual event, a straight-and-narrow look for a job interview, or an ultra-formal style for a big event.

Should You Wear a Necktie?

It’s a pretty casual world, but here’s a solid rule of thumb: If you find yourself wondering if you should wear a tie, it’s probably a good idea to wear one. In general, it’s better to be overdressed than underdressed.

Need a little more clarification? Start by checking the invitation (wedding and party invites often include wardrobe recommendations) or just ask the host of the party.

Choosing a Necktie

Once you’ve decided to wear a tie, your next big choice is which type. You may have heard that bowties are for formal events and neckties are for everything else, but that’s not true. This is actually a personal preference and a chance to express your style. If you love the look of a cool bowtie, wear one. Likewise, if you prefer the standard necktie, go with that option.

Next up, take a look at the style of the tie itself. Consider the fabric. Silk is the gold standard, but modern polyester ties can give you the look and feel of silk but are much less delicate. And finally, match the tie to your jacket. A standard rule is that your tie should be as wide as the widest part of your jacket’s lapel.

If you’re ready to take your tie to the next level, then you have the option of making yours completely unique. Some angles you might want to take are:

Ties That Show Everyone Who You Are

For a small talk kick starter, you can give people something to talk about with a tie that tells people a little about you. You can highlight what you do for a living, whether you’re the coach, a doctor, a teacher, a lawyer or a judge. You can highlight your hobbies, from active passions like biking or hiking to intellectual interests like math or history.  Or you can showcase your favorite things, whether they’re cupcakes or horses.

Ties That Reflect the Occasion

Another way to make a tie the perfect fit is to match it to the event. If you’re heading to a bachelor party, for instance, you can make a tie for that. Even events like baby showers can be necktie inspiration.

Of course, there are events where an over-the-top tie feels like too much. If you’re not sure about the formality of the occasion, or you know the crowd’s traditional, pick a tie that’s a little more conservative.

Finishing Touches

Once you’ve created the perfect look, take your selection to the next level by adding cufflinks or tie clips or tie bars to finish the look.

Caring for Your Neckties

A great necktie can be worn again and again if it’s properly cared for. Your goals are to keep it clean and un-creased between wearings. If you have multiple ties and wear them often, hang them on a tie hanger. But if it’ll be a long while before you wear it again, store it in a tie box (to keep dust and wrinkles at bay).