Traditionally the skinny tie—and by “skinny” we mean 2-2 ½ inches max—has always been associated with hipster culture. And just like everything else, it has been in and out of fashion ever since The Beatles made it famous in the 50s and 60s.
In 2005, Hedi Slimane, then creative director of menswear at Dior, created a collection inspired by British rock musician Pete Doherty and brought the slim tie back to life. Six months later, Slimane incorporated it again in his elegant evening wear fall 2006 show inspired by couture and showed that you don’t have to be a rock star to be able to pull it off.
Fast forward some 14 years later and we are seeing the resurgence of the skinny tie again thanks to celebrities like Robert Pattinson who has actually been a fan of the accessory for a long time. For a recent interview with Seth Myers, Pattinson showed up in a black suit styled with a white shirt and a striped tie that wasn’t just skinny, but super skinny.
Then a couple of days ago, Glee actor Matthew Morrison attended the Fashion Awards in London, sporting a similar-in-width black tie.
We have to admit we also have a soft spot for the skinny tie—it not only slims and refines the silhouette but it also looks incredibly cool and modern.
So if you have finally decided to give this accessory a try, here are a few great ones to shop right now (pro tip—they also make great holiday gifts):
Dior Satin Black Tie
Measuring just 1.5-inches in width, this black Dior satin tie is really the definition of a super skinny tie. Wear it with a white shirt for maximum impact.
To buy: $210, dior.com
The Kooples Circle Jacquard Silk Skinny Tie
This is another super skinny version of the slim tie that comes in an all-over circle print.
To buy: $115, bloomingdales.com
Gucci Wool Tie
Jump on the logomania bandwagon with this woven Gucci wool tie. It features the company’s instantly recognizable double G logo and at 2 ¼-inches wide it is still on the skinny side.
To buy: $280, nordstrom.com
Boss Solid Silk Tie
It’s all about the texture here. Boss’s silk skinny tie sports a horizontal textured pattern that looks so elegant.
To buy: $118, nordstrom.com
Ted Baker London Plaid Tie
Plaid is in this season and this beautiful tie in shades of blue is the perfect way to incorporate it into your outfit without looking too grunge.
To buy: $98, nordstrom.com
