A tie is both an investment and statement in style. The right tie can transform an outfit. Whether traditional or slim, the flourish of Fabric is the one of a limited number of masculine accessories that can add a little individual flair and change up your outfit’s personality.

After a long day at work, most men pull off their tie just enough to slip it off their head before tossing it to one side. While there is, in fact, a proper way to take off and care for a tie, a good quality necktie is prepared to be left in a crumpled heap.

The following features will help you decipher the ever expanding market of man’s most underrated accessory.

The Material

100% natural fibers is the only way to go. The only exception to this rule is mixing linen in to give extra texture.

The Cut

Higher quality ties are always cut on the bias. The fabric is cut at a 45-degree angle instead of straight across, a technique mass producers will avoid to cut costs. If your tie wrinkles or ripples when pulled straight from both ends, you have most likely purchased a cheaply-made tie.

The Interlining

Beneath the shell of your tie is the interlining, which is made up of two pieces of wool or wool/polyester blend sewn together so that their brushed side is facing out. Not only does this give the tie body and a softer feel, but it also ensures that the Material drapes nicely around the neck. A lesser quality tie will often contain a higher percentage of polyester in the interlining, leaving the tie rigid and the wearer feeling uncomfortable and irritated.

The Recovery Loop

Look towards the tail of any high quality tie and you will find what seems like a loose loop of thread inside. This piece of thread, known as a Recovery Loop, runs along the length of a tie and provides that extra bit of give to allow you to reshape the fabric after washing or wearing it.

The Seam

Constructed from 3 or 4 separate pieces of material, a good quality tie will have a seam located halfway along its length, ensuring that the pattern on the blade and tail are a match

With the guidance of these tips you’ll be able to spot the difference of a quality tie from an overpriced dud from a mile off.