Neckties - the then and now

That says a lot about the modern, artistically designed ties, doesn't it? Neckties have come a long way from being simple pieces of fabric tied around the necks of men to pieces of designer fabric. They have evolved into an expression of art and the personality of the wearer.
This article studies the evolution of this fashion accessory over time. It attempts to study the journey of the necktie from its origin, through the development of various styles, to the modern designer ties available in the market today. It also gives a glimpse of the trends that are in vogue with respect to neckties.
www.fibre2fashion.com had an exclusive conversation with Mr. Patrick McMurray on the subject of neckties. Mr. McMurray is an entrepreneur as well as strategic planning and business alignment specialist, actively involved in market research of various fashion accessory brands. He has an active interest in the evolution of fashion over the years. Mr. McMurray expresses his views on various aspects related to neckties.
Origin and evolution
The necktie, so much a part of today's formal attire for men, is not something that came into existence a couple of years ago. It has been around for thousands of years. To be precise, the origin of the necktie dates as far back as 1660. It was in this year that Croatian soldiers gained victory over Turkey, after a long and hard fight. As a part of the victory celebrations, a regiment of Croatian soldiers visited the court of Louis XIV in Paris, who was well known for his liking for unique embellishments. The officers of this regiment were wearing pieces of silk cloth in bold colours around their necks. The monarch was highly impressed with this style, and he advocated the use of this style as a symbol of royalty. This soon became a fad, and the pieces of fabric began to be known as 'Cravats', derived from the word 'Croats'.
Within a short time span, this fad had passed on to England. It began to be considered highly fashionable to wear a cravat. Almost 100 different styles of tying a cravat were developed in England. The English also began to experiment with various kinds of fabric and designs. Cravats became highly ornamental. 'The more ornamental, the better' was the motto of the English during this period. Cravats with tassels, ribbon, lace, bows and embroidery began making an appearance.
The cravat retained its popularity for several centuries, in different parts of the world. Later, with the passage of time, the cravat became narrower and well tailored, and became popular as the 'necktie'. According to some experts, the cravat evolved into the bow tie, which, in turn, evolved into the necktie. However, this is uncertain.
The necktie as we know it today emerged in the 1900s. During this period, the shape of the necktie became more or less universal. 3-1/4 inches began to be accepted as the ideal width of a tie, and 52 to 58 inches the ideal length. These measurements are still considered to be standard.

The Tie Trend 2010

Summer seems to move with its gradual pace offering variety of trends and styles in men’s fashion. Among those fashionable trends is the Tie Trend 2010. For men, ties teach the art of being a perfect man in this sun-abundant season.

Neckties are all in the rage during the summer tie trend 2010. Tie make you a true gentleman and are a must part of office accessories.

Popular Neckties for spring and summer are in bright colours and patterns are much simpler and bold that give men a very smart and bold look. The simplestripes solid colour ties and classic foulards are most popular demand of tie trend 2010.

Tie trend 2010 brings forward ‘Persimmon Orange’ tie in bright persimmon orange. The narrow white stripes on this tie add a nice textured look and give the tie a trendy "business look". Even though this tie is brand new of collection it is already on the way to become one of our best selling wedding ties for the spring and summer. Although popular at weddings it is still a perfect choice for businessdress. When going to the office, this tie is paired best with a grey or navy suit and a solid white dress shirt.

Another amazing tie trend 2010 is a ‘Striped tie in Lime and Purple'

This necktie is becoming a best seller and creates a very diverse impact on men’s dressing style. Although, we have never seen a bright lime green colour in combination with purple in tie but this tie works wonders. It is a necktie that is made for the sunny day. This tie will add enough colour, to any suit and therefore it is suggested that you wear this tie with solid white dress shirt and light grey suit. For those brave enough to show more colour: Pair this tie with light lavender colour dress shirt, navy-blue check pattern suit, brown shoes, and a matching brown belt - a look that will turn heads anywhere you go.

Another new and latest tie trend 2010, is ‘Teal & Navy Striped Tie’

Which is perfect for this summer. If you think that the two ties above are too bright for you, then go for this turquoise-teal and navy striped tie. The navy-blue stripes are woven into the fabric. They have a thick look and feel - adding nice texture to the fabric. This tie looks best when worn with suits in grey or navy. Our pick for this tie: Solid white dress shirt, navy-blue pin stripes suit, black shoes and matching black belt. This necktie is made from a fabric called micro-fiber. It is a man-made material that is almost identical to silk. It has brilliant shine, a soft feel, excellent drape, but is also stain resistant and does not wrinkle.

Latest tie trend 2010 includes wearing scarves also, which are a great way to cover up without adding a lot of bulk or heat to your outfit. You can wear them for a rainy day or on a cool summer evening.

So, follow the tie trend 2010 and be the rage of the town.