SUMMER NECKWEAR

So summer is here and if your looking for a little bit of a change from your usual neckwear here are a few things to change things up a bit and still be subtle about it without yelling for attention. 

Stay away from dark patterned colors and patterns (muted paisleys and earththtones) 

go for a bold rep stripe or patterned tie in bright summer colors and navy's .

The silk knit tie happens to be a summer favorite for me at the moment, as well as a slim madras or bright plaid colored tie in a cotton or linen fabric.

Another item up for discussion is the Ascot.

It takes a little confidence and edge to pull it off , but worn the right way it can give the wearer a look of sophistication and elegance. 

" Extremely fashionable in the nineteenth century, ascots are usually worn in formal settings as an alternative neck wear to bow and neck ties. After being worn in the sixties by artists and poets of the counterculture, there are more options today."

1

Choose the fabric carefully taking into consideration how the ascot will be worn. Wear a silk ascot with a lightweight shirt. Wear a cashmere ascot with a heavy suit.

Step2

Don't match the ascot to your outfit. Spruce up the ensemble with a colorful ascot. Contrasting colors look best. If wearing a white shirt, opt for a bright bold color. If wearing a dark shirt, wear an ascot that is white or cream in color. If wearing a dull suit or jacket, pair with brightly colored neck wear.

Step3

Tie the ascot in the same way as a straight tie. This is only one option. It is usually worn outside the shirt in this way. It is probably worn best like this for a dressy, but not quite formal occasion. Wear it with a sport coat and button down shirt. Or even with a polo (although it must be a shorter version)

Step4

Wear the ascot tied in a simple knot and worn similar to a scarf. Freddie in the original Scooby Doo mysteries wore a red ascot like this. This is the most casual way to wear an ascot. It was very popular for young men in the late sixties. The ascot can be tucked into the shirt or untucked. Pair it with a crew neck sweater or button down shirt open at the neck. For a complete look, pair it with a pair of shades or a cool hat.

Step5

Use a traditional ascot knot for the most formal way to wear an ascot. It finishes with the ends crossed over in front and held together with a pin. This was the popular way to wear it in the nineteenth century. It would look quite striking this way. For the most formality wear a black or white tie with a tuxedo.

Step6

Buy a pre-tied or clip on if tying it is too tricky. They can be purchased in either style at most formal wear and department stores.

Step7

Wear a pin to hold the ascot in place. This is also an opportunity for further decoration. Make sure the pin is not too flashy. The idea is to add even more elegance to the look and not make it ridiculous.