The History of Novelty Neckties

The History of Novelty Ties

The necktie as we know it today has its roots embedded deep in the history of the world. Several countries and a variety of different cultures influenced the evolution of the men’s neck-wear. In today’s society, the necktie is still a key element in the wardrobe of a successful man, but without many of the restrictions of the past. The modern tie comes in an incredible variety of sizes, colors and designs, to match any social situation. Among these, perhaps the most radical departure from the traditional is the novelty tie. While not necessarily suitable for every occasion, these interesting and often whimsical ties are generally created with a no-holds-barred standard, even to including flashing lights and/or noisemakers.

While it may be difficult to verify the originator of the novelty tie, the trend appears to have begun in the 1940s. Many ties from that era bear printed or hand painted designs that range from the unusual to just plain odd. Some sources credit Salvador Dali with starting the movement, when he shocked the art world by presenting his work on fine silk ties. Dali’s ties are among those most prized in our time by collectors. Several other popular artists followed suit and even today fine silk ties are produced with the work of new artists as well as that of masters like Van Gogh. These range from actual hand-painted originals to reprints of nearly any genre.

Regardless of how it began, the novelty tie soon became more than a fad. Idea after idea was sparked, and new lines were launched. American businessmen had a new way to express themselves around the office and at social events, and manufacturers soon offered more than enough expressions, from the religious to the risqué. More refined cultures such as the British, were, of course, slow to accept the change.

Popular themes soon worked their way into the mix, and by the 90’s, nearly any hobby, historic event or public figure was being “immortalized” on the face of a tie. Commemorative ties have been created for virtually ever war in American and World History. Personalities such as Elvis Presley and Marilyn Monroe, all the US Presidents and many more have all been printed or painted on the face of neckties. Our favorite cartoon characters, from Betty Boop to Looney Tunes are available in licensed and unlicensed versions. All the teams of the NFL, NHL, NBA, etc. and individual sports figures have all been subjects of this fashion craze.

Holidays, too, have been the launching pad for literally hundreds of necktie designs. What man hasn’t received that Christmas tie that he’s obligated to wear to the company party every year? Valentine’s Day is another favorite, as well as Halloween and even the “Kiss Me, I’m Irish” tie for St. Patrick’s Day. Whatever the occasion, chances are a novelty tie has been printed for it, in silk or polyester.

Technology, too, has had an impact on the novelty tie industry. The LED, the microchip and miniature batteries have provided us with an abundance of flashing, honking, music playing, and “pull my finger” wonders that tip the scales from the talk of the party to hidden far, far back in the closet.

Dress Code For Novelty Ties
Novelty neckties are definitely not for every occasion. Typically, the more formal or more business oriented a function the less suited the novelty tie will be. From a fashion standpoint the novelty tie actually has a tacky reputation, and for this reason, does not belong on a well dressed men. Overall novelty ties should be reserved for special holidays or special events that might call for more playful attire. St Patrick's day for example is a perfect occasion to wear a necktie with lepricons on it. Since novelty ties are not taken very seriously by renowned fashion designers, we do not offer them at Ties-Necktie.com.