Ties | J. Kent Ltd.

Picture Perfect Tie Dimple

Dec 01 2012

I received this question from a reader: How do I create a perfect dimple in my tie? Here's what I shared with them: It takes only a bit of dexterity and practice to create an elegant tie dimple. Create your knot as usual, but before you tighten it, place one finger into the fabric right below the knot. With your other hand, gently tighten the knot until there's a dimple in the center approximately half an inch deep and an inch long. Practice your technique a few times until the dimple is squarely in the middle of the fabric, and even on both sides. A dimple works best with wider ties, so if you're wearing a skinny tie, leave the dimple out....

J Kent Erickson

Ask Kent

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Collars, Cuffs, & Lapels

Ties For Spread Collars

Aug 30 2012

Many gentlemen prefer to wear spread collars on their dress shirts. The wide angles of a spread collar can create a masterful, mature look. However, because of its width, a spread collar also creates a wide space at your neck, leaving some ties looking insufficient. You can create pleasing proportions through your choice of fabric and knot. Choosing a thicker fabric will help your tie take up more space. A wider tie will also help add bulk to the knot. The knot itself should likewise be substantial, so try a Windsor or half-Windsor knot rather than the more common four-in-hand. The wider, fuller symmetrical knot more perfectly fills the space of a spread collar with well-proportioned harmony. When well balanced with an appropriate tie, a spread collar creates a strong, confident look like no other....

J Kent Erickson

Collars, Cuffs, & Lapels

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Accessories & Jewelry

Tie Quality

Jun 04 2012

Ties add more than a splash of color to your work attire - the quality of your tie contributes to your image as well. The next time you're selecting new ties for your wardrobe, make sure they are of long lasting, high-quality workmanship. When measuring tie quality the first consideration is the "hand" or feel of the tie. Check that the fabric feels pleasant to the touch. A scratchy or stiff tie is likely to be of lower-quality fabric than one that simply feels luxuriant. This "touch test" applies equally well to thick and thin fabrics. Next, check the manufacture's tag to see what type of fabric you're holding. Silk or wool ties are generally preferable to synthetics. The natural elasticity of these fibers will stretch better around the neck, leading to a longer useful life in your wardrobe. Once you've approved the feel and fabric of the tie, check the details. Finer...

J Kent Erickson

Accessories & Jewelry

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Patterns & Textures

Checkered, Checked, Checks (& Balances)

Aug 26 2010

Many businessmen hesitate to choose checked shirts, keeping to the more traditional solids and stripes. However, with foresight, there is no need to avoid this wardrobe-extending choice. When choosing a checked shirt, the choice of tie pattern can be critical. The tie's print, whether solid, striped, or patterned, should complement the shirt print by offering a visual change of pace. Pairing similar patterns, whether both are large or both small, in tie and shirt can create a feeling of heaviness. Instead, try out combinations with alternating patterns. Tightly-checked shirts require a larger tie pattern, while large checks can support a small, busier print. Colors can be similarly brought into balance. Rather than limiting your choices to single shades of colors, harmonize the tones. The "seasonal" color scheme may help you decide if a certain red or blue is compatible with your shirt and suit tones, as fall or summer colors naturally complement...

J Kent Erickson

Patterns & Textures

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