Croatian mercenaries wore the first recorded neckties in history during the 30-Year War in 1618. Frenchmen were intrigued by these simple, knotted pieces of fabric – what were they for, and why were they so mysteriously dashing? Soon confusion between the Croatian word hrvati and the French word croates resulted in a new word: cravat. Cravats would go on to become a vital fashion accessory for men in 18th and 19th century Europe, and before long had spread across the globe.
The ties and cravats of the 1700's were influenced by a group of young, fashionable men called dandies. These guys would probably be called some nasty names today, but at the time they set the trends in men's fashion, and one of their trademarks was – you guessed it! – a cravat or necktie. Realistically, men's ties of the days were more like long muslin or linen scarves that wrapped several times around the neck; a wealthy gentleman might even wear a fine lace cravat if he was really trying to show off. The way a man tied his cravat knot said a lot about his personality, and some knots were fashionable while others were considered old-fashioned and staid. In fact, knotting and tying styles were such an important part of cravat fashion that it soon became acceptable to refer to them simply as "ties!"
After World War I, modern men's ties really began to catch on in America. It became popular to wear bright, hand-painted, extremely flamboyant ties – some were up to 4 inches wide! This trend died down after the 1950's, so thank your parents for rejecting the fashions of their elders. No one wants to imagine a world of Wall Street businessmen with four-inch flamingo ties pasted across their chests!
Most men's ties today are of moderate length and width, and are available in a wide range of colors and materials. There are a variety of knot styles as well, but very few men are judged by the knots in their neckties these days. (Red sequins, now . . . that's a different story.) Modern men's fashion may not make use of ruffles and frills anymore, but the right tie can be crucial for formal occasions, and a businessman wouldn't be caught dead without one. Red, blue, and burgundy ties are considered business classics, while we all know that a "black-tie" event means you'd better be on your best behavior! Brown ties are hard to match with other colors, and anything neon should probably be saved for that 80's revival party you're headed to next weekend.
Whatever the pattern and knot style, your necktie has a long and colorful history! Wear it with pride, and count yourself lucky to be the inheritor of this great fashion accessory.
Ara Hovsepian is a part-time fashion photographer and columnist living in the Los Angeles area. He admits to owning an extensive collection of ties – but none are lace. For more of Hovsepian's necktie and scarf expertise, visit www.tie-howto-tie.com.
