My tie collection was in serious need of modernization, and this tie gave me a quick upgrade. It has a more subtle pattern than some with the colors being lighter. It's not an overwhelming pattern. Works great with plain colors, and can even get away with mixing some patterned shirts or jackets with it if I'm careful and don't go too wild! My wife approves, and that's all that really matters anyway, right?The quality of this tie is very nice, and I think it will last long enough to become out of date and still in good shape, thus still in my tie collection, much to my children's dismay. But for now, I'm in style, and we're all happy with that.