In their book “A Gentleman Gets Dressed Up” (Rutledge Hill Press), authors John Bridges and Bryan Curtis offer the following pointers about selecting and wearing neckties. A gentleman:

• Selects his necktie so that it complements his suit jacket or sports coat.

• Never wears a necktie that precisely matches his pocket square.

• Ties his own bow tie.

• Ties his necktie so that its tip grazes his waistband.

• Never tucks his overlong necktie into the waistband of his trousers.

Also, a tall or heavy gentleman is well-advised to purchase extra-long neckties.

And a gentleman wears an ascot only if he also is wearing a velvet smoking jacket and a pair of embroidered slippers.