Here’s why your next tie should be knitted
One of the many virtues of a knitted tie is its versatility. So, if you're back in the office, or just trying to master smart casual, here are our best...
Words: Jonathan Wells
It can be hard to stand out in the office. We all know that. But, in a yawn-inducing jungle of pale pink and blue shirts, we’ve discovered a way to make a definitive style statement; to hoist yourself above the sartorial crowd and shout your fashion credentials from the desktops. And that lifeline is knitted.
The knitted tie is a humble accessory. It doesn’t shine like silk, isn’t wide like a power tie and most don’t even taper at the end. But these are hardly limitations. In fact, they afford knitted ties the chance to carve their very own style niche, and attempt patterns, textures and designs unlike any other accessory. So take note, gents — knitted is in.
Going bold doesn’t mean going flashy
There are certain colours — vibrant reds, vivid greens and bold blues — that you simply can’t wear block on a silk tie. With the material’s sheen and the sheer width of most ‘power ties’, striking colours on silk ties can look gauche and ostentatious. Thank God, then, for knitted ties.
With their depth and texture, these block colours are broken up and given a little more character. This royal blue offering from Turnbull & Asser is immediately softened, this bold red from New & Lingwood less bombastic and this green option from Ermenegildo Zegna looks almost casual.
A textured colour can add interest without overpowering
One of the many virtues of a knitted tie is its versatility. Yes, you can wear it to the office — but it will also look at home with smart casual outfits, or worn with separates for a laid-back business meeting. And the perfect way to bring out some personality and add some interest with your knitted tie is by picking an interesting texture.
Not quite a pattern, but with more about it than a block colour, this navy and burgundy combo by Rubinacci is inspired by traditional English members clubs. Richard James’ offering has a tonal-blue mélange finish that’ll work with many suit and shirt colours, and Loro Piana’s relaxed, easy-going look is gently spotted for just a hint of patterning.
With knits, even patterns don’t look out of place
We’ve all seen those Scandi-inspired, exuberantly-patterned jumpers that flood our winter streets. So why not take some of that style and put it into our workwear? The combination isn’t as strange as you may think, as these wool-silk blend ties can hold a pattern surprisingly well — even alongside a suit.
From Hackett, this simple striped number is the perfect textural juxtaposition to the sharp lines and crisp finish of traditional suiting. Brunello Cucinelli’s timeless tie, partially backed with grosgrain to prevent the soft fibres from wearing down, benefits from the simple stripe, and Richard James’ zig-zag pattern comes in hard with its sixties edge.
Got your tie sorted? Now, let’s conquer another boardroom accessory: the ever helpful briefcase…
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