Ties, Bow Ties & Ascots

Ties are a necessity in the working world or for special occasions. Over the years, styles in ties have gone and come back from wide and short to skinny and long to middle of the road. Patterns and colors change with the times too. But ties have always been a main stay in men's fashion. Bow ties and ascots compete for their fair share of attention, but most men prefer the tie because of its normalcy and social contexts.

These days, bow ties and ascots are fashionable and definitely make a statement. Choosing one is of personal preference, what colors you like, what color suits and shirts you wear, and what patterns you like. Choosing between a tie, bow tie or ascot is also personal preference. In our opinion, every man should have at least one, but not all personalities can pull off a bow tie, ascot or tie. If you are new to the tie world, buy at least one solid colored tie to wear for special occasions, but you might need to learn how to tie it first.

Many men show their personality through their ties. Animal prints including Cheetah prints look great with a black suit and show others that you've got a wild side. There are also animal print ties with small elephants, tigers, ocean animals and many others that are tiny and patterned discretely over the entire tie. There are also sport team ties and Snoopy ties among many other printed patterns to choose from.

Salvatore Ferragamo has a wide selection of solid and print ties that are elegant and sophisticated. Bright colors is a trend in ties and Ferragamo makes solid orange, green, red, and purple ties among the many printed ties in geometric patterns, dots, dice, and even animal inspired ties.

Another sophisticated yet modern brand is Banana Republic with their silk and stylish gingham, solid, geometric and plaid ties. Chaps also makes solid, striped and other patterned ties in a multitude of colors. They also make clip-on ties for those who don't like to or don't know how to tie a tie.

Many European brands like Forzieri and Brioni make ascots in varying colors and prints. Boston Traveler makes a selection of bow ties that are already pre-tied. David Donahue, Gianfranco Ruffini and Stefano Ricci all make bow ties you can tie for a more sophisticated and elegant look. Fabrics vary, but most are made of silk.

No matter what your style, you are sure to find a tie, bow tie or ascot to fit your needs. All the color, prints and patterns are fun to choose from and help you show a little of your own flare.