Hop on the trend: Expert tips to style neckties and neckerchiefs

Neckties and neckerchiefs have been all the rage in 2023’s fashion week chronicles. We bring you a style guide to mastering the scarf

Milan Fashion Week just wrapped up its Spring/Summer 2024 collection unveiling the fashion forecast for weeks and months to come. Among the muted beige and grey colour palette on display, we saw elaborate pussycat bows by the likes of Balenciaga, Saint Laurent, and Andreas Kronthaler. Neckerchiefs have been in the news because of Greta Gerwig’s Barbie—the iconic pink cowboy suit, remember? mid-day hops onto the trend and asks experts how to wear the neckerchief and necktie to leave a mark. Check out our style guide.

Use a neckerchief to make a statement 

Once a thing of the nineties, neckerchiefs are today a quirky, bold style statement can turn heads—and necks. Costume designer Rick Roy “Create a style statement that’s rightfully your own,” he says. “Remember that the Indian body structure and the European body structure are fundamentally different—so see if you have the neck you need to pull it off before jumping onto the bandwagon.” Roy’s advice is to experiment with what works for you.

Shop smart

Neckpieces are eye-catching and can make or break an outfit. Roy says to look out for local finds that you can add your own twists to. “There’s always Hill Road in Bandra, which you can buy your scarves and ties from,” he says. “Linking Road too has a wide array of pieces. If you have the time and you want to be more specific, buy your own fabric and customize it according to the shape you want to wear.” Chandan, on the other hand, likes South Mumbai’s Fashion Street and its funky pieces.

Style it formal or casual

“When I travelled to Europe, I found neckties and neckerchiefs were worn as a daily accessory,” observes fashion influencer Monish Chandan. “You can add it on to almost any outfit, to make it look chic and stylish.” His tip is to pair it with casual wear for occasions such as a cocktail party or a date. “I personally style it with mafia T-shirts which are again, very common in Europe.” Pairing it with a half-sleeves T-shirt or even bell-bottom jeans gives it a roughish, street-style vibe, he feels. Wear ties to parties, social events, or a casual hang-out.

Mix corporate and casual themes 

Following closely on the heels of the neckerchief is the necktie, which is finding expression in more casual settings away from the office. “We always associate a necktie with formal wear,” says Roy. “But right now, it’s settling down as a fashion accessory that can be worn casually.” Tie it to your wrist, wear it loose, or pair it with a T-shirt.

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