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Women have accessories that define their styles and so do men. And for the male population, this accessory is the necktie. Although others may scoff at the necktie as it doesn't really serve a clear purpose other than to be an ornament, ties are seen to be instrumental in giving off a quality of respectability.

Aside from enhancing a man's overall look, a necktie is useful when you want to appear professional. A man in a well-chosen suit and tie exudes confidence and commands respect. There are occasions that simply call for a necktie - a job interview, business meeting, formal dinner - and not wearing one may be perceived unfavorably.

History of the Tie
The necktie dates as far back as the 1600s when the soldiers of Croatia wore their ties. These articles of clothing were noticed by the Parisians and this in turn gave way for the rise of the cravat.

The new fashion accessory then started to spread to other parts of Europe. The cravat was then replaced by the Steinkirk. It came to be known as the tie when fashionable Englishmen started wearing cravats again, and the manner in which they were "tied" became so closely associated with these accessories.

Kinds of Neckties
Aside from the cravat, there are other types of neckties and these are:

- The clip-on tie. A clip-on tie is a tie that is permanently knotted and can be worn by attaching it to the shirt with a metal clip. The use of clip-on ties if frowned upon among formal groups and those who wear this type of tie are frequently looked down upon. Clip-ons are regarded as giving off the impression of inelegance and are more suited for children.
- The four-in-hand tie. The four-in-hand tie is where the modern necktie originated from. These ties can come in a variety of materials such as polyester, silk or cotton among others.
- The seven-fold tie. The seven-fold tie is the most complicated tie to assemble and because of the elaborate folds that you have to do, it may take up to an hour to accomplish.

Tie Knots
There are a number of ways in which you can tie a knot. The most popular are:

- Bow Tie Knot. The bow tie goes as far back as the 17th century when French men started wearing scarves tied around their necks. Bow ties may either be made of cotton, silk or polyester.
- Windsor Knot. The Windsor Knot is triangular in shape and is used mostly in formal occasions.
- Half Windsor Knot. The Half Windsor Knot is more formal than the four-in-hand knot and you can wear it on any occasion.
- Four-in-Hand Knot. This is also referred to as the Simple Knot. Most men use this tying method as it is the easiest to execute.
- Small Knot. The Small Knot is so named for the size of its knot. It is best used for ties made of woven silk.
- Prince Albert. When the ties you own are made of soft fabric, it is best to tie them using the Prince Albert Knot.