The holiday season can offer a variety of excuses to put ones sartorial spin on things. Sometimes the mood calls for the standard suit and tie, black or white tie, and other times a less than formal approach is desired. The dilemma for the man who wants to remain within the parameters of a classic look without feeling under-dressed can be overcome by the use of one simple accessory, and that is the ascot. Ascots are finally making a comeback and for good reason. A simple ascot can add a bit of color and refinement to any suit and allows the wearer to stand out with a bit of understated sophistication.
Michael Caine, David Beckham, Jeremy Pivens, and even Al Pacino’s Michael Corleone wore one in “The Godfather.”
Forget what you’ve learned or have seen in the past concerning ascots. The cliché of the old well-to-do gentleman who is forever in the smoking jacket with cigar or pipe in one hand and a brandy in the other is outdated.
Far too many men feel that the ascot is either too stuffy or simply out of their league. It is believed that it takes a certain kind of man to wear one and there is a grain of truth in that. It takes a man with a bit of confidence and sophistication not only to wear one but also to wear one well. Traditionally, an ascot tie was made of pale gray patterned silk; enter the classic style made famous by the British Royal Ascot Racecourse, but now many fabrics are utilized.
The first rule of thumb in pulling off the ascot look is to treat it like any other tie, i.e. own it. There is no need to feel conscious about it at all. In fact, although there are many ways to tie one, are an easier and comfortable alternative to any tie.
Depending on fabric choice, an ascot can have a wonderful feel.
Ascots used to be hard to find but any men shop and haberdashery worth their weight in salt will carry them.
Now, we at The Dandy American can’t guarantee that you’ll look as snazzy as Cary Grant at your next party this holiday season, but you’ll definitely be noticed, and for all the right reasons.
O.C. Cavanaugh, Jr.
Tie one on at
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