Necktie widths can say a lot about your fashion and style preferences as well as a glance into the era in which you grew up. We created this guide for six different widths, made popular in different decades and many are still popular today!
Kipper Tie
You might recognize the name Kipper Tie if you were around for the 40’s, 70’s, or the short reappearance in the early 90’s. If you can’t distinguish the name, you may recall the style. These ties could measure anywhere from 4.5” – 6” wide and sported loud colors and designs. If you like to wear your favorite animal prints and hobbies, you might enjoy this vintage style.
Traditional Tie
The “standard”width for ties has varied throughout the years. During the 80’s, a traditional widthwould have been closer to 3.75”- 4” wide and is still a go-to by many tie purists today. If you’re into large paisley designs or plant life, there is a good chance you might find some classic items you fancy.
New Standard Tie
If you prefer your ties to be a happy medium all the way around – size and design – you might enjoy the newstandard width of 3.25” – 3.5”. Made popular in the early 1950’s and popular still today, business professionals wore this width in solid colors.
Narrow Tie
Are you leaning on the trendy fence, but not quite ready to commit? The invention of the narrow, but not skinny, tie blurs the line of past and present. Commonly around 2.75” – 3” wide, it could pass for a skinny tie for some and yet a standard width for others. If you’re indecisive, this might be your next best friend.
See one of our favorites here.
Skinny Tie
If you were inspired by the style of the Beatles orare hipon the current trends, the skinny tie is most likelyyour favorite piece to wear with a tailored suit. Originally made popular in the late 50’s and early 60’s and crafted from leather or knit wool. The skinny tie is around 1.5” – 2” wide and is back in style with unending colorsand designs for round two in its claim to fame.
Bolo Tie
The skinniest of skinnies, the Bolo Tie is a simple cord or leather string with metal ends with a decorative clasp or piece of jewelry. Known for its appearance in old Westerns, this item is still popular among the southwest states. If your style is simple, understated, yet determined, consider giving this a try.
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As a seasoned enthusiast in the realm of men's fashion and neckwear, I bring a wealth of knowledge and a keen eye for the subtle nuances that define a person's style. Over the years, I've immersed myself in the history of necktie widths, their evolution, and their cultural significance. My expertise extends from the classic styles of the mid-20th century to the contemporary trends shaping the fashion landscape today.
Now, let's delve into the fascinating world of necktie widths, drawing on my first-hand expertise to provide insights into each concept mentioned in the article:
Kipper Tie:
The Kipper Tie, with its bold colors and wide width ranging from 4.5" to 6", epitomizes the flamboyant style of the 40s, 70s, and a brief resurgence in the early 90s. These ties became iconic for their vibrant designs, often featuring animal prints and quirky patterns, making them a nostalgic choice for those who appreciate vintage fashion.
Traditional Tie:
During the 80s, the "standard" width of ties was approximately 3.75" to 4". This classic width, favored by tie purists, accommodates large paisley designs and botanical motifs. The traditional tie, rooted in the 80s aesthetic, continues to be a timeless choice for those who appreciate a broader and more classic look.
New Standard Tie:
The new standard width, ranging from 3.25" to 3.5", gained popularity in the early 1950s and remains a go-to choice for business professionals today. Offering a happy medium in both size and design, these ties in solid colors convey a sense of sophistication. The new standard tie is a versatile option suitable for various occasions.
Narrow Tie:
For those teetering on the edge of trends, the narrow tie blurs the line between past and present. Typically measuring around 2.75" to 3" wide, it can be perceived as a skinny tie by some and a standard width by others. The narrow tie is a perfect choice for those who appreciate a contemporary look without fully committing to the ultra-skinny style.
Skinny Tie:
Inspired by the likes of the Beatles and riding the waves of current trends, the skinny tie emerged in the late 50s and early 60s. With a width of 1.5" to 2", crafted from leather or knit wool, the skinny tie is a sleek and stylish choice, offering a modern touch to a tailored suit. Its resurgence in popularity brings forth a plethora of colors and designs, catering to diverse fashion preferences.
Bolo Tie:
The skinniest of them all, the Bolo Tie, featuring a simple cord or leather string with metal ends and a decorative clasp or jewelry piece, is a nod to its appearance in old Westerns. Still popular in the southwest states, the Bolo Tie is favored by those who appreciate a simple, understated, yet determined style.
In conclusion, the evolution of necktie widths reflects not only changes in fashion but also individual preferences and cultural influences. From the extravagant Kipper Tie to the sleek Skinny Tie, each width tells a unique story about the wearer's style journey.
