Ties and Tassels- Two Looks with Timeless Appeal

Ties and Tassels- Two Looks with Timeless Appeal

Whatever happened to neckties? They seem to be getting short shrift these days.

Just check out the cable news shows, where the male pundits are likely to be tie-less. Their shirts are worn with open collars under business suits. It’s a look that seems to say that ties — and their pleasant touch of color, pattern and fun — are no longer in style. I hope that’s not the case, for I am all for neckties on men.

When I used to appear on the shopping channels in live shows, the producers always wanted me to wear a suit without a tie. But that just wasn’t me. So like Frank Sinatra, I did it my way and wore my signature wide scarf, knotted in tie fashion.

If you are reading this, you men of the television screens, I hope you’ll pay no attention to the dictate that says eschewing a tie gives you a more down-to-earth appeal. I say that’s nonsense. Who doesn’t look good in a tie? Deck yourself out with one in your favorite style, and you really can’t go wrong.

When I’m out for the evening in Palm Beach, I always get a kick out of seeing guys in colorful bow ties. Light blues, melons and yellows all say Palm Beach is back in session for the season.

In decorating, I think the equivalent of a bow tie is the drapery tieback. And I’m happy to report that the latter remain popular, whether the look is casual, formal or in between.

I love the beach-house look of white linen curtains tied back with hemp or knotted rope — very nautical-looking. And there are many Palm Beachers who tie back their drawing room draperies with silk cords and tassels. Such an elegant choice.

Tassels, in fact, have experienced a renaissance of sorts, from tassel rugs to tassel earrings. I even designed a silk scarf with tassels as the pattern’s main motif. And tassel loafers never seem to go out of style.

So here’s a toast to men, suits and neckties. I am from the generation of handsome ties and tucked-in shirts, although I see all around me members of the untucked generation. But you can be sure of this: I’ll keep on tucking!

2 comments

  • Vicki on

    Your article is superb as always. I am a woman who loves a man with a tie or scarf. It is so sophisticated and good looking. The casual look is so prevalent, but I think there are many of us who will always want men in ties

    Cheers!

  • Priscilla Cox on

    I hear women are wearing ties; might want to tap into that market.

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