What are three pieces of fashion advice you’d give to a guy?

1. Wear socks that go up to your knee, or what I call ‘talk show socks.’ Otherwise, you expose skin and you appear to be coming undressed when you cross your legs while seated, say, in a low puffy chair at a lounge-style bar.

2. You can’t go wrong being just a tad more dressed up than any other guy at a party or event. For example, choose a sport coat over a sweater.

3. Jeans don’t go with everything, so when in doubt, wear color-coordinated slacks instead of jeans. I will probably never be a fan of designer jeans with embroidered stars either.

Describe your personal style.

I like to wear a white shirt and be clean-shaven. Then I feel dressed up and ready for virtually any situation. As an exception, a white dress shirt may not be the best choice, especially while surfing. Shaving (your face) would then be optional, as well.

When did you start wearing your signature bow tie?

I started in with bow ties as a waiter at the girls’ athletic banquet in 11th grade. I found the bow tie made me looked dressed up. It also shows respect for those around you. And a bow tie does not slip into the soup or flop into a flask the way a straight tie does so easily.

How many bow ties do you think you own?

About 500.

When you’re not in your bow tie, how do you dress down?

I like skinny jeans from the Gap, because they fit me pretty well. Despite my earlier remark, I really prefer ankle-high socks if the situation suits. I think it comes from my years of bicycle riding.

What’s your favorite style of suit to wear and why?

I’m loving my Nick Graham suits. I’m wearing them on my new Netflix show, Bill Nye Saves the World. Their patterns and cuts are just adventurous enough, and they generally fit me right off the rack (it surprises me every time). And I’ll slip into a tuxedo just about any time, because it makes me feel like a million bucks.

Is there a menswear trend that you absolutely hate and think should be retired for good?

I am open-minded, of course, but I do not get the no-socks, short-slacks look. I have no objection to guys who choose to show their ankles and calves while having smelly, cold feet. It makes me look that much more put-together, respectful, and stylish. Go for it, you all. Also jeans that fit around a guy’s butt instead of his waist. It just looks sloppy. They also look like they inhibit your movement, as if you were pursuing a counterspy or perp.

In your opinion, can a lab coat ever be stylish?

I would wear a lab coat all day every day if I worked in the right situation. They are practical and comfortable. I think the 100 percent cotton coats with breast pocket and cloth-knot buttons are just the best.