April 26, 2010

Faux Pas for Skinny Ties

How NOT to Wear Skinny Ties

The skinny tie first originated during the late 1950s. Pop icons like the Beatles were among the ones that made the skinny tie famous. On their 1958 released album “Anthology 1” the band is displayed wearing solid black skinny ties. In recent years the skinny tie has experienced a re-birth. It is most popular among young professionals as well as non-suit wearing teenagers and hipsters.

In general, neckties have gotten slightly narrower. Even regular (non skinny that is) ties have been slimmed down from 3.75 inches to about 3.25 inches. Especially European designers now produce ties in these fashionable widths. The true skinny tie is even smaller at about 2 – 2.5 inches. Skinny ties require a certain look and type. Below are some common mistakes men make when wearing skinny ties.

Skinny Tie on a Fat Man
The skinny tie looks best on tall and thin men. If you are on the heavier set side and/or have a larger neck size then the skinny tie will just not look right. It will look out of proportion and will add even more pounds to your frame.

The Wrong Suit
Skinny ties look best when worn with modern cut Italian suits. Suits that have at least a 3 button front, slightly narrower lapels, as well as a tapered cut are perfect for the skinny necktie. Suits that are definitely out of place are double breasted jackets, blazers, thick and heavy fabrics, as well as suits with wider lapels and peaked lapels.

The Wrong Knot
Skinny ties need a smaller necktie knot. Larger tie knots such as the double Windsor are not suited for narrow neckties. The best tie knot for the skinny tie is the slightly asymmetric looking Four in Hand knot.

Pleated Pants
Skinny ties should be worn with straight cut pants. Pleated pants will look to baggy and trow the skinny tie look out of proportion.

Other Related Articles:
The History of Vintage Mens Ties
Office Fashion for your Body Type

Your Ties-Necktie.com Team