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What makes a quality necktie valuable to you?
I’m going to tell you ladies five things that will help you choose a quality tie.
Beware, ladies, this may forever change your view of neckties and how you shop for the man in your life.
We all want to get the greatest value for the money that we are spending. Whether you are choosing a tie for your father, husband, fiance or son, you need to know that NOT all ties are created equal.
For example, a cheap necktie is a cheap necktie; but a quality necktie should be a statement and a staple in his wardrobe.
So, Let’s get started.
First
You need to know that neckties come in many different shapes and sizes and so do the men in your life. Therefore you will need to choose the right length tie for the right person. Neckties range in length from an average of about 53″-57″. The average man will usually do well with a necktie in the range of 57″-59″. If he is tall or has a large neck, look for a necktie in the range of 60″-64″. Youngmen or students do well with neckties ranging from 48″-52″. Keep in mind, you can always have your necktie custom-made.
Second
Besides his height, consider his weight. Is he thin, or is he heavy or large? Why? Because the width of the necktie is just as important as the length. For a thinner, small or petite man-a thinner necktie. For a large, heavy man-a wider necktie. The best width is 3.25″-3.5″. This classic width will ensure a long life for your quality necktie. A skinny necktie is usually below 3″ and a wide necktie can be about 4″ and up. Try to get a sense of the types of jackets that he has in his wardrobe. Are they vintage with wide lapels? Are they classic or are they very trendy with thin lapels? A good rule of thumb is to match the necktie width to the lapel width. That way you get a more uniformed, clean look.
Third
You need to look for the details that tell you it is a quality tie you are buying. The slip stitching should be hand stitched which makes it loose enough to give the tie flexibility and should run all the way up the length of the tie. Look for a three-part tie or triple construction that is cut on the bias. You will see two lines of stitching that make up the three necktie parts. The Tail – that hangs behind the larger end. The Neck – which is hidden beneath the collar. The Blade – the lower end of the necktie that hangs in front. Many times, the manufacturer will try to cut corners by making one long piece of fabric into a necktie. Trust me. Stay
away from that. Double construction is good, but not as good as triple-construction. It should also have a good quality bar-tack stitch at each end to hold the tie to the lining. It keeps the tie together and makes it durable.
The tippings on the tie should be either 100% Silk or self-tipped which is the same fabric that the tie is made from. It shows that the maker cares and has paid a lot of attention to detail. The keeper or the loop should be sewn into the tie and reinforced. This keeps the tie from moving around too much. There is also something that you can not see. The lining and the interlining. The lining gives it extra strength and the interlining should be 100% wool to give the necktie memory which means it goes back into shape after it has been worn.
Fourth
The tie shell fabric is key. Neckties come in many types of fabric. Silk imported from China is the best that you will get. Silk imported from China gives you very high yarn count and the fabric drapes well and is soft to the touch. There are some fabrics that should be considered only during specific seasons. For instance, Linen neckties are for the warmer months. If you purchase knitted or wool or cashmere neckties for him, remember they are seasonal as well. Cotton is a nice fabric that breaths and is inexpensive. However, stay away from polyester-period.
Fifth,
This is the most important aspect of buying a quality necktie. It should be handcrafted by a maker which is an artisan that you trust. The maker’s customer service should go above and beyond.
Thanks you for reading!
