The Tie Bar quickly gained popularity for offering a wide range of designs, from classic to contemporary, at affordable prices.
The History of Men’s Neckties: A Journey Through Time and Style
Neckties have long been a staple of men’s fashion, symbolizing elegance, professionalism, and personal style. The origins of the necktie can be traced back to the 17th century when Croatian mercenaries serving in France wore knotted neckerchiefs as part of their uniform. The French soon adopted this accessory, naming it “la cravate,” and it quickly became a symbol of status and sophistication across Europe. Over the centuries, the necktie evolved in style, length, and fabric, becoming an essential accessory in men’s wardrobes worldwide.
In 2023, the neckwear industry continued to thrive, with global sales reaching approximately $3 billion. Despite the shift towards more casual work environments, the tie remains a powerful fashion statement, embraced by those who appreciate its timeless appeal.
Iconic Men Who Defined Necktie Style
Throughout history, many iconic men have left their mark on fashion through their distinctive use of neckties. Figures like Winston Churchill, who was rarely seen without his signature polka-dot bow tie, and James Bond, the epitome of suave elegance, have made neckties synonymous with style and sophistication. In more recent times, fashion icons like David Beckham and Tom Ford have continued to showcase the versatility and enduring charm of the necktie, proving that this accessory is far from outdated.
The Tie Bar: From Humble Beginnings to Modern-Day Success
The Tie Bar, a brand known for its accessible and stylish neckwear, was founded with the simple idea that every man should be able to afford high-quality ties. Starting as an online retailer, The Tie Bar quickly gained popularity for offering a wide range of designs, from classic to contemporary, at affordable prices. Today, the brand has expanded its offerings to include bow ties, pocket squares, cufflinks, and more, all while maintaining its commitment to quality and style.
A Recent Visit to The Tie Bar’s NYC Presentation
As a menswear expert, I recently had the pleasure of attending a presentation by The Tie Bar hosted in a luxurious penthouse suit of the Modernhaus Soho Hotel. The event was an impressive showcase of the brand’s latest product offerings. Michelle Kohanzo, The Tie Bar’s President, personally walked me through the collection, highlighting the fresh designs and innovative materials that define their brand. The presentation was not just about the products, but also about the experience—one that left a lasting impression.
“The Long Weekend” Collection: A Nod to Nostalgia and Adventure
One of the standout moments from my visit was the introduction of The Tie Bar’s latest advertising campaign, “The Long Weekend.” This collection, created in collaboration with Camp Wandawega, embraces the spirit of nostalgia by bringing back forgotten patterns, field and forest artwork, and a rich color palette reminiscent of a bygone era. The collection features classic neck and bow ties, pocket squares, bandanas, cufflinks, and tie bars—each piece evoking the timeless style and simple joys of a perfect long weekend.
Camp Wandawega, the backdrop for the campaign, is more than just a location—it’s a place steeped in history and charm. Located in Elkhorn, Wisconsin, Camp Wandawega was originally established in the 1920s as a prohibition-era speakeasy and has since evolved into a beloved summer camp and retreat. With its rustic cabins, scenic lake views, and a host of outdoor activities, Camp Wandawega serves as the perfect inspiration for The Tie Bar’s collection, capturing the essence of adventure and carefree weekends.
The Full Collection: Timeless Elegance Meets Modern Style
The Tie Bar’s full collection offers something for every man, whether you’re looking for a classic piece for the office or a bold accessory for a special occasion. From their extensive range of neckties and bow ties to their thoughtfully designed pocket squares and cufflinks, The Tie Bar continues to set the standard for affordable luxury in men’s fashion.
A Conversation with The Tie Bar’s President, Michelle:
Stylelujo.com’s exclusive interview with The Tie Bar’s President, Michelle Kohanzo and menswear expert Joseph DeAcetis, where we dive deeper into the brand’s philosophy, their latest campaigns, and the future of neckwear in 2024 and beyond.
Joseph DeAcetis: Who is the primary demographic for The Tie Bar, and how do you strategically tailor your products to meet the needs and desires of this audience?”
Michelle Kohanzo: “The Tie Bar’s primary demographic consists of a younger audience, many of whom are either dressing for their 9 to 5 or looking to craft a personal style that stands out. We place a strong emphasis on the historical context of our designs, often incorporating a rich backstory. But beyond that, we love to inject something unexpected or playful into our creations—adding a bit of fun to the mix is part of our brand’s identity.”
The Tie Bar quickly gained popularity for offering a wide range of designs, from classic to contemporary, at affordable prices.
Joseph DeAcetis: “Could you elaborate on the strategy behind your ‘Long Weekend’ advertising campaign? What core message did you aim to convey?”
Michelle Kohanzo: “‘Long Weekend’ is a project that is particularly close to my heart. Growing up, I spent my summers in Wisconsin, and I hold deep nostalgia for everything related to camp life. Camp Wandawega, in particular, has been a place of immense inspiration and joy for me, both personally and professionally. Tereasa Surratt, the proprietor of Camp Wandawega, is a long-time friend and collaborator, and I knew that the blend of the camp’s rustic charm with The Tie Bar’s more buttoned-up aesthetic could create something truly unique. The end result is something I’m incredibly proud of.”
Joseph DeAcetis: “Where are The Tie Bar products manufactured, and what quality standards do you maintain throughout the production process?”
Michelle Kohanzo: “The Tie Bar manufactures products across the globe, including in Asia, Europe, and North America. We uphold rigorous quality control standards, with thorough inspections at both the production stage and upon arrival at our fulfillment center. Additionally, all of our products are hand-finished, which means multiple sets of eyes are always ensuring the highest quality.”
Joseph DeAcetis: “Sustainability is increasingly crucial in today’s fashion industry. How does The Tie Bar incorporate sustainable practices into its operations?”
Michelle Kohanzo: “Sustainability is something we’re deeply committed to, and we’re continually striving to improve. Some of our current practices include using OEKO-Tex 100 certified cotton, certified wool, and recycled polyesters in our linings. We also incorporate recycled materials in our packaging. We recognize there’s always more to be done, and we’re actively working on further advancements in this area.”
Joseph DeAcetis: “Can you share insights about your current collection, particularly in terms of the fabrics, styles, and the overarching design philosophy?”
Michelle Kohanzo: “Our fall collection is a tribute to classic menswear. We’ve drawn inspiration from traditional patterns like houndstooth, paisleys, and repp stripes, with an emphasis on rich textures and jewel tones. Some of my personal favorites are the wool herringbones and the Italian Barberis plaids—they truly capture the essence of a crisp autumn day in the park.”
Joseph DeAcetis: “What is The Tie Bar’s brand philosophy, and how does it influence both your product offerings and your interactions with customers?”
Michelle Kohanzo: “Our brand philosophy is centered around making our customers feel confident, stylish, and uniquely themselves. This ethos permeates everything we do—from obsessing over the smallest details to seeking out unexpected partnerships. We’re always on the lookout for new ideas that we know our customers will love. We see ourselves as a trusted friend or neighbor—someone who’s always got your back.”
Joseph DeAcetis: “What are The Tie Bar’s future plans, both in terms of product development and overall brand expansion?”
Michelle Kohanzo: “We have a lot in the pipeline! Over the next year or so, we’ll be expanding our apparel assortment, and there are some really exciting developments happening on the accessories front, including collaborations and innovative new concepts. We’re also looking to open more stores, and we’re particularly excited about expanding our made-to-measure program to more cities. Beyond that, the sky’s the limit!”
Joseph DeAcetis: “How do you envision The Tie Bar evolving within the menswear market over the next few years?”
Michelle Kohanzo: “I see The Tie Bar at the forefront of occasion dressing, helping a new generation reinterpret the tie and its role in modern menswear. We’re excited to continue pushing boundaries and redefining what it means to wear a tie in today’s world.”
Conclusion
The Tie Bar continues to redefine men’s fashion with its commitment to quality, style, and innovation. From its humble beginnings to its latest “Long Weekend” collection, the brand remains a beacon of timeless elegance in a modern world. As the neckwear industry evolves, The Tie Bar stands out as a leader, offering men the tools to express themselves with confidence and flair. Stay tuned for more insights from my conversation with Michelle, where we explore the future of neckwear and The Tie Bar’s role in shaping it.
About the Author:
Joseph DeAcetis is a visionary in the world of fashion, renowned as the best wardrobe stylist and art director of his generation. His impressive accolades and unmatched expertise set him apart in the industry. Joseph covers the intersections of style, culture, art, and fashion, with a particular emphasis on the evolving status of menswear.
Throughout his illustrious career, Joseph has penned award-winning columns for top-tier publications such as Esquire, People Magazine, Robb Report, and Playboy. His profound insights and engaging narratives have made him a leading voice in fashion journalism.
Most recently, Joseph served as the creative fashion director for Forbes Media, where he excelled as both a critic and reporter. His extensive body of work highlights the importance of dressing for success and explores how technological advancements are reshaping the fashion industry. Joseph’s authoritative yet approachable voice continues to inspire and influence fashion enthusiasts worldwide.
Comments, questions, or feedback? Email me at jdeacetis@gmail.com.
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