Ties in Red are most common at the top level positions within an organization. If you are given a red tie to wear, it usually means that you are giving the appearance of being in charge. It is used especially when there is a need for discretion, such as when negotiations are being held with higher ups or when people from different departments are going to be meeting together. Blue is the traditional color of authority. It is used to indicate that someone is in a position of responsibility, but lacks the actual title. For example, a president of a company would be wearing a blue suit while a vice president would be wearing a white one. Black ties represent formality and are only worn by men in very senior positions. They are often associated with older men in powerful positions because they are seen as a sign of status. Young men may wear black suits occasionally, but only old money families will allow their sons to grow out their hair long enough to wear black ties. Gray and white ties are also used to denote formality. These are less formal than black ties, but more so than blue or red ones.