It's time to step beyond the solid power tie. What was once a bold statement can now seem bland. Multicolor neckwear offers more room for expression when matched with a shirt and pocket square. At about three and a half inches wide, the ties above measure a little narrower than in recent years and echo traditional rep (diagonal stripes) and neat (dotted) patterns.

Like a shirt or suit, every tie will eventually lose the crispness in its construction. But unlike those other items, a tie shouldn't be ironed. A quick steam is a good solution. Don't have a steamer? Just hang the tie in the bathroom while you take a shower. Afterward, drape it on your tie rack or, if you're traveling, neatly coil and stow it inside one of your extra shoes.

China's terra-cotta warriors, the legionnaires depicted on Trajan's Column and 17th century Croatian mercenaries asserted their prowess with neckwear. But these days gravy, not blood, poses the most peril to your tie. Some dry cleaners offer special tie services, but these treatments tend to leave the tie flat and lifeless. The best alternative is blotting the stain or scraping it away after it dries.