How to Choose a High Quality Silk Tie

Jane Bennet Clark
Associate Editor

Jane: You probably buy them yourself but you have absolutely no idea how to
go about choosing a good one. I’m Jane Bennet Clark of Kiplinger’s
Personal Finance and I’m talking about ties. Those bits of silk that started
out as a king’s corvette and centuries later still add class for a man’s
wardrobe.

How do you choose a tie that stands out from the crowd? First look at the
tag. If it says that the silk was produced in England or Italy you’re off to a
great start. Both countries are renowned for their design and milling
technique. Next run your fingers over the fabric. A high quality,
heavyweight silk feels luxurious and has a richness and depth of pattern
that you won’t see in skimpier ties.

How are ties made tells you a lot about it’s quality. I’m with Craig Fox of
William Fox & Company a men’s clothing store on G Street in
Washington D.C a few blocks from the White House. Craig show us how
a great tie is put together.

Craig: They start with cutting the fabric. There is a wool lining which is all hand
sown then they have pure silk tipping to the front and the tip of the tie. By
hand the loop which secures a small label is put in by hand and finally our
label is put on. This makes for tie that will last.

Jane: As for price a top of the line tie cost about as much as a nice dinner out or
maybe a massage. This is Drakes of London tie runs 135, Talbot’s a U.S.
Tie maker that uses Italian silk has one of the broadest price ranges. This
tie runs $65 to 150 for something snazzy that’s not too pricy check out
these ties by Vineyard Vines a U.S. company. They’re hand made, they’ve
got great style and they sell for around $65.

This has been Jane Bennet Clark of Kiplinger’s for more information on
personal finance go to Kiplinger.com.