Something for the weekend: ties

Ties should never be an afterthought, particularly at an event such as a wedding. Why? Because for men it is likely to be the only sartorial choice whereby you get to engage with something of a coloured or patterned nature. Don't go crazy, mind. There's a fine line between interesting and winning the wacky award. And how you tie your tie is crucial: knots should be neat, not flabby.From top: Floral £70, by Liberty . Stripe £10, by Topman . Paisley £7, by Asos . Stripe £20, by All Saints , 0844 9802211. Purple £45, by Ted Baker , 0845 1304278. Orange £39, by Reiss , 020-7473 9630. Photograph: Lucie Kelvie/ studio21photo.com for the Guardian