Keeping Your Neckties Longer

Neckties have been in the market for almost 300 years now. Ties usage started way back in the 1600s when Croatian mercenaries wore neckerchiefs around their necks. This traditional piece of clothing stirred up the Parisians. From then on, wearing that “small and traditional” piece of clothing became a fashion craze in Europe.

Three hundred years later, the “small piece of clothing” has evolved and undergone some adjustments to fit the current fashion trend - from cravats, steinkirk, stocks, neckclothes, scarves, bandannas, bow ties, ascot and even up to long ties. The span of 300 years has helped the necktie industry continue to improve and innovate. With all these years of designing and launching new necktie trends, there are four necktie types that surpass the test of time. One is cravat and it is the oldest and can be traced back as early as 1660. The four-in-hand type became a fashion statement in Great Britain in the 1850s. Another type is the six- and seven-fold ties that became popular in America as well. It is interesting to note that their price ranges from $1 to $5. And perhaps the newest among these types is the clip-on tie which has got a permanent metal clip on it that is used to affix the necktie.

With all these innovations and adjustments in the tie industry, it is important that one should care for their ties and make an extra effort to prolong ties’ life. After all, ties are considered to be one of the most versatile pieces of clothing as it can be worn either when you are dressing up or dressing down. One popular concern with ties is the damaging of interface materials and also when they start going out of shape. Here are tips on how to care for your ties.

First is to know what are your neckties made of. They can either be made from silk, polyester and cotton. So if your ties are made of silk, it is best to have it dry-cleaned than do some do-it-yourself washing. Another common problem is stain or unsightly blemishes on your ties. Again, use care and do not let the stain stay on your ties for a longer time. If possible, wash it with water and let it dry. One good thing to do to prevent stains is to spray your brand-new ties with fabric protector. In terms of ironing it, press on the reverse side. Also, it will help to undo the knot first, before removing your ties.

A quality necktie is a good investment when it comes to your clothing. Be it a brand name necktie or otherwise, it is how your care for them that matters.