Ties

Accessories that provide a splash of color and just the right finishing touch, men's ties are considered to be the modern male equivalent of a scarf. But these accessories have a history that runs deeper than complementing designer suits.

Neck embellishments have been worn with men's clothing since ancient times to signify rank, status, or simply as a barrier to perspiration, like the early ascot. Modern, primarily decorative neckties date back to King Louis XIV of France, who popularized the tie's predecessor, the cravat, after seeing adornments that looked like bow ties on 17th century Croatian soldiers.

Today, the necktie has many iterations, from everyday designer ties used as a complement to designer suits by businessmen and sharp dressers everywhere to bow ties intended as formal wear for black tie events. The most popular ties are made from long lengths of yarn-dyed silk knotted several ways to suit the collar style and sensibility of the wearer. Others are rendered in cotton, linen, wool, cashmere, synthetic fibers, or blends.

Some of the most coveted ties are the seven-fold variety, so named because they are crafted from a single piece of fabric artfully folded—not cut and sewn together—seven times, giving them luxurious heft and drape.

Quick Facts

• The Suashish Necktie, the most expensive tie in the world, is made from pure silk and crafted with 150 grams of gold and 271 diamonds. It has a $220,000 price tag
• Ties can command excellent prices at auction. Bold post World War II ties, hand-painted rayon ties, corporate and advertising ties, cartoon ties, and rare pieces like original Salvador Dali designs are popular with collectors
In March 2015, a signed blue striped silk necktie owned by former Florida governor Jeb Bush sold for $355 at an eBay auction of ties donated by Republican 2016 presidential candidates