Neckties have been an iconic accessory for centuries, shifting from simple cloths knotted around the neck to powerful symbols of status, fashion, and personal expression. As we dive into the history of neckties, we’ll see how these stylish strips of fabric have evolved from military must-haves to modern-day staples in men’s fashion—and maybe a few surprises along the way.
The Origins: A Warrior’s Symbol (17th Century)
The history of the necktie traces back to the 17th century with Croatian mercenaries employed by King Louis XIII of France. As part of their uniforms, these soldiers wore small knotted neckerchiefs which rather quickly caught the eye of the French nobles. The "cravat" as it was dubbed, became popular among the French nobility and soon made its way across Europe. The cravat became popular among men early in the 18th century, as it symbolized their social rank, wealth, and sense of modernity.
The Birth of the Modern Tie (19th Century)
The 19th Century is viewed as a period of critical technological innovations as well as social and economic upheavals owing to the impacts of the Industrial Revolution. This era introduced new textile manufacturing techniques, making cravats more accessible to the masses. By the middle of the 1850s cravats had evolved into a simpler style also referred to as neck tie or four-in-hand. Named after a popular Club in London, this design is said to rhyme easily and was more suited to traveling business men.
The 1920s-1940s: The Advent of Pattern and Color
The 1920s saw the birth of the necktie as a canvas for patterns and colors, moving beyond plain, dark-colored ties. This period of fashion history saw the development of wider ‘Jazz Age’ ties that featured a variety of colors and bold geometric shapes that were the hallmark of the Roaring Twenties. But in the 40s, ties were once again made slimmer, yet they remained loud with their designs like stripes, paisley, and novelty patterns that complemented a suit perfectly.
The 1950s-1970s: From Skinny to Super-Wide
The post-war era was a time of experimentation, and neckties reflected the cultural shifts of the 1950s, ’60s, and ’70s. The ’50s popularized the skinny tie, a sleek and minimalist style often paired with slim-fit suits for that classic “Mad Men” look. But the ’60s and ’70s had a different idea. Ties became wider—up to six inches!—inspired by the rebellious spirit of the era. Bold prints, psychedelic colors, and exaggerated widths turned ties into a statement accessory.
The 1980s-1990s: Power Ties and Designer Trends
The 1980s brought a return to power dressing, and neckties became an essential part of the corporate “power suit.” Think bold, saturated colors like reds and blues, often paired with sharp, boxy suits. Designers such as Ralph Lauren and Calvin Klein brought a new level of sophistication to ties, focusing on luxury materials and classic patterns like stripes and paisley.
The ’90s, however, ushered in a more relaxed style, and ties became optional in many workplaces. Patterns became subtler, with softer, muted tones dominating. Ties during this time were often slimmer, and the designs were minimalist, reflecting the growing influence of casual Fridays and a more laid-back approach to office fashion.
The 2000s-Present: The Rise of Individual Expression
The 21st century has seen neckties become an accessory of personal expression. During the early years of the 2000s most ties were made thinner, it was the era of the skinny tie that added versatility with different designs. Ties today are available in a wide variety of styles with floral patterns, paisleys, knit, silk or wool of various hues.
More recently the scope of a necktie has extended beyond the office. Groomsmen at weddings, creative professionals, and style enthusiasts have embraced ties as a way to make a statement. Boutique brands like MatchSox have brought innovation and personalization to neckwear, offering matching tie-and-sock sets for men looking to coordinate their outfits down to the finest detail.
What’s Next for the Necktie?
The necktie’s evolution shows no sign of stopping. With more focus on sustainability and individuality in fashion, we’re likely to see a resurgence in eco-friendly materials, handmade ties, and unique, limited-edition prints.
From a military accessory to a modern-day fashion essential, the necktie’s evolution is a testament to the ever-changing world of style. Today, neckties give us a way to express our personality, mark special occasions, and make even the simplest outfits feel a little more extraordinary. Whether you’re rocking an elegant floral, a skinny tie, or a classic paisley, remember that you’re wearing a piece of history with every knot you tie.