Custom Ties

Although mainly perceived as a piece of fashion, ties have become pivotal in symbolising different areas of our lives. Our school ties, sports club ties and even wedding ties are all symbols and memories of different times within our lives-regardless of how much we may have hated wearing them initially. However, we often think of ties as being the accessories to a suit or smart outfit, but in actual fact, they are a member of a long line of neck accessories which have been designed and altered as time has gone on such as cravats, bow ties and bandanas. But how exactly did ties become the accessory they are known as today?

Neck ties originate all way from the 1600’s during the time of the Thirty Year’s War. During this time, many of the French service would wear their traditional small knotted neckerchiefs which became a great source of interest to many whom resided in Paris. This soon started a massive fashion craze which hit most of Europe where both men and women would display pieces of fabric tied around their necks. As time grew, different variations of the neckerchief were created around the world including the cravat, neck cloths and bandanas. As we moved into the Industrial Revolution, neckerchiefs were soon found to not be as practical for a workday, meaning we needed them to be easier to put on. The long tie which is still worn today by many, was originally referred to as the ‘four in hand’ by the British as they felt the knot resembles the reins of a four horse carriage. After the end of the First World War, hand painted ties became a popular choice of decoration for many within America. These designs were often quite loud and bright compared to traditional ties, but this was a style which stayed within the fashion all the way through the 1950’s.