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1901-1910: Cravats
Cravats evolved from the early 17th century ties that were brought to France by the Croatians. What was different however, was how they were tied. Two decades earlier, the Four in Hand knot had been invented which was the only knot used for cravats. -
1901-1910: Bow Ties
Bow ties were worn for formal black tie events or for evening white tie attire. -
1901-1910: Ascots
The ascot originated during the later part of the 19th century in Britain. It is named after the exclusive horserace “The Royal Ascot” - an event at which men were required to wear this type of tie in combination with a tailcoat jacket (also known as morning coat). -
1911-1920: More Casual, Comfortable, and Functional
The second decade of the 20th century saw a decline in formal cravats and ascots as men’s fashion became more casual with haberdashers putting a stronger emphasis on comfort, functionality, and fit. Towards the end of this decade neckties closely resemble the ties as we know them. -
1921-1930: New on Ties
The best era of men's ties -- a variety of colors, shapes and styles. -
1921-1930: Neckties
Neckties were full of color from the “club” or “regimental” striped ties started in Europe to the gold toned paisley prints that were especially popular in the USA.
Neckties were thin — about 2 and 3/8 inches — and made of very fine silk. The quality of the man was often judged by the quality of his silk tie. -
1921-1930: Knit Wool Necktie
Knit wool necktie was made of one long 2 inch thin strip with fringed or straight bottom edge. -
1921-1930: Bow Ties
Bow tie was very popular for day wear with patterns of horizontal stripes, plaids and polka dots in light pinks, purples, greys, and greens. -
1931-1940: Art Deco Patterns with Windsor Knot
Neckties became bolder with Art Deco patterns.
Men started wearing their ties shorter using the Windsor knot – invented by the Duke of Windsor.
Necktie widths grew wider (about 3.5 inches) and shorter to go with the wider suit lapels and oversized shirt collars. -
1941-1950: Bolder and Stood-Out Patterns
The end of World War II brought out a feeling of liberation that was made evident in fashion.
Ties were bolder and patterns stood out more than ever.
