Most people go to a department store or online to buy new ties, and today they include slimmer versions reminiscent of the narrow neckties worn in the 50’s, 60’s and even the 80’s. I say reminiscent because all too often they are merely slimmer versions of normal width neckties. You’ll find stripes, solids, polka dots, paisleys, plaid, floral as well as a whole host of foulard patterns, but if you want something truly special, vintage is the way to go. You will have to make some adjustments to make them work for you, but the reward is some of the most magnificent designs around.

Take Quality Control into Consideration

When it comes to solid and patterned ties, slight imperfects hardly get noticed if at all. However, many solid color neckwear sports an embellishment located 9 to 13 inches above the tip which serves as a visual anchor, and sometimes it is not exactly centered. On occasion the same goes for mirror image designs which are meant to be perfectly symmetrical but end up a little off center. The tip is another place where these mass produced neckties are not the same length on either side of the point. Often these slight imperfections can be forgiven because the accessory as a whole is unusual enough. You alone must decide if you can live with the workmanship that went into the manufacture of these interesting accessories.

Not all Narrow Neckties are Today’s Length

People have come across vintage ties which strike them as boy’s ties due to their shorter length. They will range from 50 to 57 inches, and all you have to do is adjust the way you tie one on to make sure they reach your belt line. Of course something has to give to accomplish this, it being the length of the thin end will end up much shorter. This doesn’t concern most men since you can’t see this part anyway. Some people love their thin skinny neckties so much that they end up taking them to a seamstress to have them lengthened in an inconspicuous area that ends up hidden somewhere around the collar.

Chemical at Professional Cleaners May be Too Harsh

If you own thin vintage ties, you know that part of their appeal is the fabric used. Printed and woven silks, blended jacquard fabrics and standard polyester material goes into the manufacture of these handsome accessories. Remember, though, that they are made of vintage material and even the best cared for and cleanest neckties might not have been cared for years. You might notice that those made of Dacron polyester recommend a hand or machine wash, which I’ve tried with success. However, the other natural and man made fibers would not fare as well with at home or at your local dry cleaner. You may need to ship them to a specialty place with experience handling these more delicate fabrics.

Conclusion

Vintage skinny ties are special in their one right, especially if you like their one-of-a-kind designs, and if you give these handsome accessories just a little bit of attention, you will be able to enjoy them for many years to come.