Neckties are silly. I have lots. Call me silly.
Especially because ties have become increasingly uncool. Today, guys can make a single tie work for job interviews, funerals – and criminal sentencings.
I wore ties daily for decades. Workplace norms required them, and I conformed.
Then, nearly five years ago, I became a university instructor. “Shabby chic” describes what flies for professor wear. Believe me, it’s fancy compared to student dress, which is just shabby.
Still, I often wear a necktie, even though I don’t have to. I like a tie with my jeans and button-down dress shirt.
Go ahead, fashionistas. Sue me.
But my tie collection had grown stuffy, more fit for business than classroom. So, when family asked for Christmas gift ideas, I said neckties. Weird, funny, colorful, not-fit-for-funerals ties.
And did they deliver. I got ties with rubber duckies. Cows. Chili peppers. Marvel Comics characters. Mardi Gras colors and patterns. Frosted donuts.
Twelve in all!
I pared my collection and now have … 44.
And just in time. One fashion website reports ties are (sort of) in again.
30-Second Read on clothing
Professor Socks schools the rube
I’m screaming, Jeff! What a collection of gorgeous ties. But please, don’t deprive funeral goers of their wit. Laughter is the best medicine at such times. The video is a blast, too.
Thank you, Darlene!
Ties help define your personality. When I covered serious subjects in government, politics and transportation I wore power ties that told my subjects I would write with authority. They took me seriously as a result. I really think how you look makes a difference.
I agree, Steve.
It has bern a long time since I’ve tied one on. My daily habit long ago was broken. I maintain a small but effective assortment in case a noose is required for decorum. I didn’t even wear one to a wedding last summer that was billed semiformal. It was outdoors and about 85. A suit would suffice. I won’t be buried, so I won’t need a tie for that appearance. But I’m ready to rope as needed
“…to rope as needed.”
Now that’s funny, Steve.
Mmmmm…donuts!