Last Wednesday night several friends and I went out to dinner, I was the only one who wore a tie and jacket to the restaurant and everyone else as dressed in tee-shirts and jeans. Needless to say I stood out in the crowd and was noticed by several young ladies who kept looking my way and smiling. In the animal world I was the bird in full plumage that the hens noticed, so the story of the day it's not dead to wear a suit. Thanks Ash and keep up the hard work
Haha happened to me just this Friday. After a night out drinking with some colleagues we ended up in a random techno club. I was wearing a bowtie and suit. I have talked to so many people throughout the night who randomly came up and wanted to talk to me because I just stood out to them. Some really cute ladies as well.
For whatever reason, either because of media, old fashioned or a combination of both, wearing a suit and tie for the sake of wearing one is considered a bit strange and outdated. But the effect and notice that you get from wearing one is the complete opposite.
As a young engineering student in my 20’s, I find myself feeling rejuvenated and motivated by simply taking the time and effort to dress smart (usual shirt, tie & sportcoat), despite my feeling sometimes burnt out by my studies. Consequently I end up being more productive that day just because I made an initial effort to ‘dress the part’, not to mention how differently I’m treated because many folks are pleased to see a young man dressing to impress despite our ever-increasing casual world. Needless to say my passion for sartorial pursuits (influenced by Chap’s Guide & others) have drastically improved my quality of life and interactions!
The well dressed man has a huge advantage over his contemporaries in many aspects of life. I am delighted that you have discovered this often unnoticed super-power.
Great job! Now that I work from home full time I enjoy wearing a tie and jacket during my leisure time for absolutely no reason. With the vast majority adopting the casual look it has become quite easy to stand out from the crowd in a very pleasing and refreshing way.
Absolutely - when I was younger, so many times at work I was assumed to be more senior than I actually was, purely because I dressed and carried myself better than my superiors. Now I am the superior, I still like to dress well, but, especially in the summer heat in Tokyo, practicality frequently wins over style. In recent years, new fabrics are making it easier to look good whilst remaining cool, but if you have any advice on how a modern chap can still look dapper in extreme heat and humidity, it would be much appreciated Ash - many thanks kind sir.
I don't really know about "extreme" heat, coming from temperate central Europe. But in the summer, my region frequently gets 30 degrees Celsius combined with really high humidity. I switch to all linen when that happens. I own a few linen suits - they can be worn comfortably in those conditions.
Hi Ash After watching your tie video. I pulled out the 1980s book DRESS FOR SUCCESS and rereading it again. Thank you Ash for reminding me that I had it and what a great book it is. Keep the good work . Gary from Australia
Thank you for the motivation. I am a professional musician and recently dressing smart like classic 1940-1960’s musicians I feel really helps my professionalism and appearance. I have an awards night coming up next week and tonight I practiced the Windsor knot for an hour. The tie is definitely going to be a regular used piece of attire in my world, moving forward. Thank you Ash.
As a tie wearer for work I very much feel in a minority. Even working in a modern office of a financial investment company in Mayfair the other week, I was the only tie wearer in the building. Wearing a necktie 👔 puts me in a workmanlike state of mind.
I've slowly become more comfortable wearing neckties when other people in my vicinity aren't wearing them, I started with dress shirts, then started wearing sport coats and blazers over them, and now I'm wearing ties with them! There's so many amazing patterns, colors and textures within ties and they really complete certain looks! I recently found a really nice golden tie with navy stripes that I can't wait to wear again!
It’s amazing how people hate wearing ties. I’ve always thought that the tie is the more dapper version of the graphic t-shirt, it shows a ton of personality if you take the effort pick them out with intention.
I think people think of it as a symbol of subjugation. Locked into your job and role. But now that most office work doesn’t require it, you’re totally right.
funny thing ,as photographer that go to wearings , i have tie the knot of tie , for most of my clients since most of them don t know how , i like the full windsor is more symmetrical and nicer , but most have see only the fore in hand and think the full is to big , :)
Agree, the day I started wearing ties I got better service and called sir when being served. I wear a tie everyday just because I love wearing and collecting ties and vintage ties. I feel not dressed if I go out without a tie on. The only time I skip a tie is when I go on holiday.
Great advice that I totally agree I work in retail and see it everyday. I also noticed that when I am dressed more stylish I get waited on and treated better at restaurants and stores. By the way the picture of your PM looks like he comes his hair with a brick.😂 cheers Ron
Definitely food for thought regarding career potential, as a former manager of mine once said: "dress for the job you want, not the one you have". That said, I'd think twice before choosing a picture of Boris Johnson as a representation of tie wearing & professional appearance. I mean, yes, he is the prime minister, perhaps the most senior profession in the land, but somehow (& irrespective of any party political preferences) the man has a knack of looking shabby no matter what he wears.
We lately, good sir, came upon your channel. We are loving it. I myself don a tie for all club meetings. It has now earned us the privilege of sitting on the committee to review the club's statutes and ordinances. My only claim to fame is I am a Latinist.
Lovely! I agree. As a child I always remembered my dad the Jeweler, ready to get to his business, he smelled nice, had on a suit, a tie, tie clip, watch and nice shoes..I learned to love clean respectfully dressed men
Could not agree more! IMHO if you are bothering to wear a dress shirt along with a coat(jacket) it's like going to the trouble of wearing a classic oxford shoe without laces, it's just 'incomplete' . As soon as you eliminate the tie you reduce the level of formality of the ensemble, of course, if this is what you want to project and the situation is appropriate fine. Can you imagine wearing a dinner suit(tuxedo) without a self-tie bow tie ! or worse without socks !!!
Mr. Ash, the videos I have seen on your channel are excellent! And you have convinced me to wear a tie. I am currently planning to start my own business doing consulting work. And your video, this one, in particular, has opened my eyes. I will wear a suit and a tie to my first business meeting, regardless of how the client is dressed. Thank you very much, sir. And I will start supporting your channel as soon as I am in a position to do so. GOD bless you and your family always.
Though my office dress code do not allow loose clothing, ties, scarfs, I am fond of it. During winter I wrap my neck with a silk scarf and get noticed by everyone around. I have a lot of ties, wear it spare-time to feel good.
Great video! I can't believe I've never seen any of your videos before now. I consider myself pretty well dressed, and I've been wearing ties less since Cov!d... you've rejuvenated my interested in them!
I’m not usually a tie-guy (!) but I’ve just been up to the old wardrobe and searched the tie drawer for tomorrow, when I shall wear one to the supermarket. For the smart casual outfit, I find that my waistcoat habit adds a bit of interest. But nothing beats the tie for authority, self confidence and bearing - the quintessential masculine garment, perhaps?
Bravo Ash, Bravo. A very well made argument for neckties. I didn't wear ties often as a youth: mass, the rare wedding or funeral and my high school graduation. But, I always wanted to. I joined the military after graduation and wore the Class A Dress Uniform when it was required (Uniform of the Day). I did enjoy it. Even as a 18-year-old young man, I felt empowered. One time, I saw a very young boy drop his ball and I retrieved it and handed it back to him. His mother said, "Say thank-you to the man." It was the first time an adult referred to me as a man. After my discharge I enrolled in college and little need to wear tie and so I didn't. Then, I interviewed for a corporate and had to a wear suit & tie. It felt great. The dress code for men at the time was Corporate Casual (slacks, collared shirt and loafer or dress shoes) and dove right in. There were the occasions wear a suite & tie was appropriate: company holiday party, annual all employee meeting, and meeting with corporate clients. So while not enough for my tastes, I did have the opportunity to be more buttoned-up. Upon graduating college, I went to work for a private security/military company. Depending on the assignment, ties were mandatory. I always commanded more respect when I did. Wouldn't be great if we men decided to be more dressed up for work, play and everything in-between? For work, I like the idea of men dressing up not because we are required to, but because we want to. A style evolution that moves towards sartorially smart, instead of the slow creep towards uber-casual. I for one do not want to wear my gym clothes to work. But, I believe I'm in the minority. A tip of the cap to you, for this nice episode.
When I was six, I very impertinently asked an elderly family friend (he was in his nineties at the time, and always scrupulously well turned out) why he insisted on wearing a necktie and carrying a clean white linen handkerchief in his cuff to informal family functions. He simply replied, “it’s the thing to do”. 🙂
Ash, thank you for your videos. Thoroughly enjoy them, as I am trying to improve my wardrobe to act my age of 64, all the while being a construction worker. I humbly suggest that even tho fashion says large watches are acceptable and on trend, this ensemble would be much better presented in a datejust 36mm. Just my 2 cents as a 40 year watch collector and enthusiast. All meant in humility; I never was good at diplomacy. Please keep giving me helpful videos and I can't wait for another vid where you critique viewers sent in photos.
Hello Sir, I am not British, but am a USA citizen. Usually, I watch what I consider to be your American version, "Fashion Over Forty." The chap who produces this series offers like you, great styling tips. Regarding ties, I usually wear one in the classroom, except for dress-down Fridays (I am a middle/high school substitute teacher, my semi-retired career). It's interesting to note how many students ask me if I'm going to be the new principal or why I even wear a tie! I simply tell them that it's how I give respect to the school, i.e. the Staff AND students; and they look so happy with that comment!
Have a wee wedding coming up...perhaps a bit sad but im looking forward to picking out a new fun tie for the occasion. Bit if a cultural issue accross the UK, in our London office there isnt a tie in sight, but in the glasgow office most people wear them. Its true, professionally, if your not wearing a tie people think you cant be bothered and are lazy...wear a tie and its the opposite
Coming back on this. I got myself an orange horse chessboard tie from hermes. very cool print. im certain itll hold 50-70% of its resell value, making it the best purchase of that brand. I think their ties are the best value for money items. Plus a unique feel and color and pattern you cant get anywhere else. I personally love their animal print ties, not the ones with the flashy h symbol repeating in the tie.
Ties are one of my favorite collectibles because they are found so cheap in thrift stores. I particularly love floral print ties. Yin and yang - a little feminine sensibility in man allows him to connect emotionally to the fairer sex!
Hi Ash, I really enjoyed your series at Oak Lodge. I'm a tie wearer and love the opportunity to stamp my style on an ensemble. As an ex Military man I know that you will be well qualified when handling an iron. I have a question....Knowing your love of chinos, do you iron them flat or steam a crease into them? Could you point me in the right direction. Many thanks, Phil from Sydney
Great question. I personally never iron a crease into chinos, unless they came from the manufacturer with such a crease installed. I iron my chinos flat as God intended.
Hello Ash, totally agree, when I left my country to start working in Ireland in a completely new business (sales over the phone) I was wearing a suit, shirts and ties...that gave me lots of opportunities and promotions, not because I was the best salesman, purely because I was the best dressed man in (a huge) room 😉👍 Thanks for yet another interesting video that brought memories of my past life 👍
Thank you for this video. It made me reconsider wearing ties again. I always thought a suit without a tie looks unbalanced, incomplete. But I gave it up because these days no one in the tech industry wears it, including the CEOs, and increasingly I felt self-conscious wearing it. What would be your advice for this case?
I like the points you made in this video discussion. I will add something. Wearing a tie can be a personal statement of course but a person can also be aware of his environment, the group he will be with. No one "has" to assume a superior visual impression like some kind of a "look at me" guy who is always the one to make everyone feel badly about themselves. A jacket can be removed, for instance. Sleeves can be rolled up if desired. Also, the jacket buttons can be unfastened to achieve a friendlier approach when that is desired. Take, for instant the John Wick movies. He wears a tie and jacket, but the jacket is not always buttoned. Loosen up man! That is also a "look". Thanks again.
Hi Ash, wise words. Just out of interest how many neck ties do you own? I have to confess I stopped counting after I reached 60. 99% of which are silk. I love the versatility of how a different tie can be used to change the look of any outfit. Keep the videos coming. Thanks.
I had a mass clear out last year and culled about 50 ties that I had not worn for years - I still easily have about 100 ties in the collection. I rarely buy any new ones now, unless they really grab my attention.
As a young graduate who has just started working in the public sector, it is interesting how few other staff wear ties. Working from home does not allow for ties really, so whenever I get to go into the office, I will usually wear a tie. I've learned that wearing a sombre, professional tie in a dark solid colour looks too formal against the rest of the staff (as you pointed out when you mentioned dark ties can be sombre) - so in future I look forward to wearing tartan ties, knit ties, florals etc so I still look sharp and make an impression but I don't look too sombre amongst all the smart casual attire!
I’m permanently based from home (and have been for 16 years) and sometimes wear a tie at home when I have to verbally assess trainee surveyors online via Teams.
I agree 100%. I loathe the business suit/no tie combo. It reeks of ersatz down with peeps/kids pretence. Popularised by bbc reporters and politicians. A style averse signifier of fake mateyness.
I know you did a video on lessons learned in law enforcement already. Though hearing about you doing detective work as well makes me interested in hearing about about skills you learned in that part of your carreer.
3 Additional benefits of neckwear: 1). It looks incredibly unflattering of an older man displaying his Turkey neck! 2). The tie is that item closest to one’s face, therefore provides a complete symmetry to the outfit. 3). The date you’re going out (assuming he/she likes you) won’t be able to contain their excitement in anticipating ripping off that piece of neckwear later that evening …..less flesh on display can be way more exciting for them. 4). It looks way “cooler” IMHO to have a work vs social distinction of attire. I liken tieless suits to a convertible motor: it just doesn’t look cool driving around “topless” in the pouring rain ie. sh*t hits the fan at work. I’m old enough to remember when men started dropping the tie because it was considered “cool” /“rebellious” even to do so (we would drop them after smart social events, heading to the pub after work etc).. I genuinely believe the tie will make a return and I hope so because the Square Mile where I work is, on the whole, sartorially drab these days 😢
Ash I most certainly always wear a tie with my Attire as for today I wear my Lethao brand burgundy brogue Oxford Dress shoes and lighter charcoal trousers Brook Brothers brown hugo boss leather belt white slim fit Dress shirt Calvin Klein and a gold pattern tie with a Prince Albert knot a brown band dress watch hugo boss with gold edges and blue dial my light blue and grey pattern brook Tarvener linnen sport coat and my fine English Gentleman fur felt Bowler hat with the higher crown and as fragrance choice the Sultan EDT layerd with the lataffa Amyst
Except on the hottest days in July and August, when I might wear an open collar linen shirt with a jacket and let my pocket square provide the colour and interest that would otherwise be the duty of a tie, I rarely leave the house without one, and I find that doing so instantly sets me apart from about ninety -five percent of the men I encounter, including the few who are wearing suits. I particularly love silk ties with paisley patterns, but am also a fan of wool ties in the autumn months, when worn with a tweed jacket, regimental striped ties in silk, and silk ties with polka dots, or small geometric patterns. Picking a pocket square that compliments the tie, and the rest of my outfit, is sometimes a bit of a challenge, but it must be said that one must NEVER wear a pocket square that matches the tie exactly. -This screams sartorial amateur like nothing else, in my opinion. Also, novelty ties, Christmas ties, and ties made of leather should, in my opinion, be confined to the dustbin, along with bright, monochromatic ties made out of polyester. (Why wear a polyester tie when you can get high quality silk ones at thrift shops for one or two dollars?)
I own a few. Not seen much these days and wearers run the risk of being seen as a touch eccentric. But in the right situation, they bring joy to an outfit
Fantastic vid. I always wondered the origins of a tie. One problem tho. Idk what is the benefit of looking like you have money when you don't. Unless it is to attract women. Which is good I guess.
but do i have to watch out if i wear more neatly than my boss/superior? it might be seen as a hint towards the boss that he isn’t well dressed and can be negative..
I work in a formal setting but all of my colleagues apart from the senior managers choose not to wear a tie. I only avoid wearing one just to blend in with the people at my level. This video has made an impact on me and I certainly get your point. I'm going to start wearing a tie everyday at work even if it means being an outlier among the others.
Good morning....I agree with you...i am in my 70s and i still wear a tie.... ...its a big part of my uniform..no desire to change...keep up the great work....peace
But what does one do when no one else, not even the partners and director's, wear ties. I feel like I shouldn't outdress my peers or superior's because that will make them feel like I feel better than them. What do you think about this?
As an allergic guy it’s almost mandatory for me to wear a tie in cold weather or I’ll fall prey to intense coughing or sometimes sneezing and even headaches . So aesthetic reasons aside wearing a tie is a kind of protective dressing for me. You just can’t replace it with a scarf when you’re staying inside which will be quite cumbersome . What’s more by wearing a tie I can dress up or down accordingly, I can just loosen the knot and left the collar button undone with my shirt sleeves rolled up when I need to look more relaxed and vice versa. One thing I want to point out is that AFAIK men’s neckwear was first worn by the soldiers of the Qin Dynasty of ancient China which dated some well over two thousand years ago, just pay attention to the neck of those terracotta soldiers in the tombs in Xian and you’ll have a rough idea.
I have a question: I know thay polyester/nylon is made from petrol-chemicals (plastic), not good at all for clothing, whereas natural fibre is great for clothing (inc shoes), is rayon/viscose OK if one can not afford say silk clothing items, as they may be on welfare! As prices here are very expensive! I have brought a poylester black bow tie (not easy to put on) self-tie, is a slik (self-tie) bow tie easier to put on? 😀 I am an Australian living in New Zealand! 😀
I have many polyester items (pocket squares and scarves). I think they offer a more affordable alternative to silk if it better reflects your budget. A pre-tied bow tie is very easy to wear, but the fun in the bow tie emanates from the self-tie option - for the record, I am rubbish at tying a bow tie!
But sadly in Europe outside Britain Noone wears ties, no politician, no news caster, no bank employee nobody. Open neck is what you see and you are being stared at if wearing a tie. I don't go with the flow. I always wear tie or bow tie when having a jacket or suit on.
I work for a very politically correct rail company and it is possible for a man to come to work dressed as a woman and get no comeback for it. I’ve known several male staff not like the company uniform shirt and tie and get the female sweatshirt instead. I always wear my shirt tie and jacket despite the snide remarks from other members of staff!
Agreed, Ash. Quality content, indeed. I was the only student in college who wore a tie. Everyone else came in polo shirts and jeans. I didn't wear a suit but always wore dress shirts, trousers and a tie. I do believe it had a role in my being chosen to represent the college in many fests and conferences or promotions or events that required public speaking on behalf of the college.
I used to wear ties but never liked the feeling around the neck. Now I almost never wear them anymore, nor do my clients. The only people I meet who still wear them are -some- consultants and most of the lawyers.
Usually the discomfort part comes the shirt's collar, rather than the tie... But the tie does become uncomfortable when it starts to get warm, with the body heat trapped under the collar; if a suit/blazer is required, then it can get pretty warm... I used to work at places where a tie is required for all male staff, while I'm not against it despite feeling a noose grabbing or dangling from my neck/collar, I dislike it when female colleagues are free to wear what they want; such as sleeveless, collarless and usually lower cut blouses, which are far more comfortable than men's restrictive long sleeve and tie combo... But then again, attire requirement depending on specific dress code varies for both men and women... My current workplace switched to a smart casual some time back but recently switched back to a formal dress code, so the tie requirement is now back; only for male staff, ladies can still go collarless and sleeveless...
Because it stands out:True but you can stand out as a bodybuilder with a t-shirt as well Item of statues and respect: I disagree that people must wear a tie to be respectful but ı do agree that people show more respect when you have one.It is very true ı am mostly mistaken by being a lawyer or business man while ı am not,people at restaurants give me the best place. Wear ties when having a blazer: Yes,Jacket always looks better with a tie but there are good looks without one too. I simply wear it since a well tailored suit looks great and it is fun to combine a suit,shirt and tie.It is also very easy to just wear your suit and go out without tought if you have the experience and know how to. Thank you for the video.
Based on the history presented in this video, the tie is a relatively recent fashion accessory. What was considered well-dressed in Europe before the days of Louis XIV? Why did that go out of style?
In a society that not only forgoes wearing neckties, but barely even making an attempt to dress at all before going out into the public, dressing well stands out even more I would say. I just never understood how people can go out looking like they either swept their chimneys or changed the oil in their cars! Anyway, sadly I don't have a job that allows me to dress in a respectable fashion, as wearing a tie to work would probably warrant decapitation due to my neck getting caught in a conveyor belt (I'm a maintenance technician in a large warehouse). However, off the clock I very much enjoy looking a dapper as possible-- some people I work with have seen me outside of work and wouldn't have recognized me at first had I not drawn their attention! To me, having a nice and crisp button-up shirt paired with either a standard necktie or a (less formal) Bolo tie with slacks and dress shoes is what I favor when going out. On top of that, I've noticed that when I am shopping in certain stores, I garner the attention of store associates asking me if they can help me-- assuming I have money to spend!
I do love a good tie 🙂 but sometimes it would just be way overkill for my daily life. I’m already as is “overdressed” or at least smarter dressed when my peers. Living in a tropical country also makes a tie rather unpractical at times purely because of the heat. I’ll wear a tie on occasions and sometimes when going to a nicer restaurant 🙂 it truly is a shame that not many men wear a tie besides funerals and weddings.
Even if I don't meet a single human face during the day at the office I wouldn't dream of not wearing a tie. However, I think the "aesthetic" point you make at 8:45 is the strongest: without a colourful tie a gentleman's attire looks simply bland. So why should I forego such a feature? And wearing different ties can mulitiply the usage of, say, a blazer: it looks like a different piece of garment every time you wear it. And particularly, if you've left the "50" mark well behind you, going open-necked simply draws the attention to your not quite so youthful and wrinkled neck :-) Perhaps you could give us hints on various tie-knots? I recently listened to the channel "The British Dapper" and he gave instructions on doing the "Victoria" and "Prince Albert" knot which I now quite often wear.
Ash; I corroborate your observation: many colleagues regard any shirt with buttons as dressy. Do you think "that" chap steps-up to his "good" sweatshirt for formal occasions? ;-)
Permit me to say, good sir, your pronunciation of 'assurance' (just off the 8-minute mark) is, to my mind, clipped and proper to the formality of your dress. How would Quintilian have put it: he speaks well who dresses well.
When I was a teenager, I resisted wearing a tie as a mark of rebellion. Nowadays I enjoy wearing a tie, as a mark of rebellion. 😎
What a juxtaposition!
Funny how times change.
its amazing how the respectable way to dress now marks a sign of rebellion inside of grace and style
Same here!! 👍
hello fellow contrarians
Last Wednesday night several friends and I went out to dinner, I was the only one who wore a tie and jacket to the restaurant and everyone else as dressed in tee-shirts and jeans. Needless to say I stood out in the crowd and was noticed by several young ladies who kept looking my way and smiling. In the animal world I was the bird in full plumage that the hens noticed, so the story of the day it's not dead to wear a suit.
Thanks Ash and keep up the hard work
A great example of why being the best dressed man in the room is very advantageous for the discerning chap!
It is good to pick up girls but non good to hide away from police or tax .But if you are honest it is ok😁
Haha happened to me just this Friday. After a night out drinking with some colleagues we ended up in a random techno club. I was wearing a bowtie and suit. I have talked to so many people throughout the night who randomly came up and wanted to talk to me because I just stood out to them. Some really cute ladies as well.
@@daveb9451 At the night club or bar it's like having full plumage 😉
For whatever reason, either because of media, old fashioned or a combination of both, wearing a suit and tie for the sake of wearing one is considered a bit strange and outdated. But the effect and notice that you get from wearing one is the complete opposite.
As a young engineering student in my 20’s, I find myself feeling rejuvenated and motivated by simply taking the time and effort to dress smart (usual shirt, tie & sportcoat), despite my feeling sometimes burnt out by my studies. Consequently I end up being more productive that day just because I made an initial effort to ‘dress the part’, not to mention how differently I’m treated because many folks are pleased to see a young man dressing to impress despite our ever-increasing casual world. Needless to say my passion for sartorial pursuits (influenced by Chap’s Guide & others) have drastically improved my quality of life and interactions!
The well dressed man has a huge advantage over his contemporaries in many aspects of life. I am delighted that you have discovered this often unnoticed super-power.
Well done that man.
Dress British and think Yiddish
Great job! Now that I work from home full time I enjoy wearing a tie and jacket during my leisure time for absolutely no reason. With the vast majority adopting the casual look it has become quite easy to stand out from the crowd in a very pleasing and refreshing way.
Many do not understand that simple pleasure.
What crowd at home??? But all the same, good for you man.
I wear a neck tie as much as possible. It demonstrates my confidence, assuredness and success. Vital I’d say for standing out in this world.
Absolutely - when I was younger, so many times at work I was assumed to be more senior than I actually was, purely because I dressed and carried myself better than my superiors. Now I am the superior, I still like to dress well, but, especially in the summer heat in Tokyo, practicality frequently wins over style.
In recent years, new fabrics are making it easier to look good whilst remaining cool, but if you have any advice on how a modern chap can still look dapper in extreme heat and humidity, it would be much appreciated Ash - many thanks kind sir.
I don't really know about "extreme" heat, coming from temperate central Europe. But in the summer, my region frequently gets 30 degrees Celsius combined with really high humidity. I switch to all linen when that happens. I own a few linen suits - they can be worn comfortably in those conditions.
@@daveb9451 I'll look into linen, thanks. If it adds style but allows cooling, I'll give it a go.
Had to order a shocking pink tie.
Great video as always.
Hi Ash
After watching your tie video. I pulled out the 1980s book DRESS FOR SUCCESS and rereading it again. Thank you Ash for reminding me that I had it and what a great book it is.
Keep the good work .
Gary from Australia
It is an awesome book. Perhaps the best style book of all time.
Thank you for the motivation. I am a professional musician and recently dressing smart like classic 1940-1960’s musicians I feel really helps my professionalism and appearance. I have an awards night coming up next week and tonight I practiced the Windsor knot for an hour. The tie is definitely going to be a regular used piece of attire in my world, moving forward. Thank you Ash.
excellent, bro
As a tie wearer for work I very much feel in a minority.
Even working in a modern office of a financial investment company in Mayfair the other week, I was the only tie wearer in the building.
Wearing a necktie 👔 puts me in a workmanlike state of mind.
Workmanlike, --or as in Ash's History Lesson: warriorlike and purposeful!
change your way of seeing yourself that comes from inside the tie cannot help that
@@escapematrixenterprisejacq7810 I like wearing ties
@@escapematrixenterprisejacq7810 Dressing up is about communication. Even spiritual leaders from all kinds of philosophies and religions dress up.
I've slowly become more comfortable wearing neckties when other people in my vicinity aren't wearing them, I started with dress shirts, then started wearing sport coats and blazers over them, and now I'm wearing ties with them! There's so many amazing patterns, colors and textures within ties and they really complete certain looks! I recently found a really nice golden tie with navy stripes that I can't wait to wear again!
Another great video. I do love wearing my tie for work and in social occasions. Especially the club stripped tie.
It’s amazing how people hate wearing ties. I’ve always thought that the tie is the more dapper version of the graphic t-shirt, it shows a ton of personality if you take the effort pick them out with intention.
I think people think of it as a symbol of subjugation. Locked into your job and role. But now that most office work doesn’t require it, you’re totally right.
funny thing ,as photographer that go to wearings , i have tie the knot of tie , for most of my clients since most of them don t know how , i like the full windsor is more symmetrical and nicer , but most have see only the fore in hand and think the full is to big , :)
Well done, Great channel!
Agree, the day I started wearing ties I got better service and called sir when being served.
I wear a tie everyday just because I love wearing and collecting ties and vintage ties. I feel not dressed if I go out without a tie on.
The only time I skip a tie is when I go on holiday.
Thanks!
Thank you sir - Much appreciated
I enjoy wearing a tie. A nice woven silk tie.
Great advice that I totally agree I work in retail and see it everyday. I also noticed that when I am dressed more stylish I get waited on and treated better at restaurants and stores. By the way the picture of your PM looks like he comes his hair with a brick.😂 cheers Ron
Sadly he is a sartorial disgrace and not a good ambassador for the British tailoring industry.
Definitely food for thought regarding career potential, as a former manager of mine once said: "dress for the job you want, not the one you have".
That said, I'd think twice before choosing a picture of Boris Johnson as a representation of tie wearing & professional appearance. I mean, yes, he is the prime minister, perhaps the most senior profession in the land, but somehow (& irrespective of any party political preferences) the man has a knack of looking shabby no matter what he wears.
We lately, good sir, came upon your channel. We are loving it. I myself don a tie for all club meetings. It has now earned us the privilege of sitting on the committee to review the club's statutes and ordinances. My only claim to fame is I am a Latinist.
You should be a tie salesman! But you are absolutely right. Especially now that the tie is not so common, it really stands out.
Lovely! I agree. As a child I always remembered my dad the Jeweler, ready to get to his business, he smelled nice, had on a suit, a tie, tie clip, watch and nice shoes..I learned to love clean respectfully dressed men
Could not agree more! IMHO if you are bothering to wear a dress shirt along with a coat(jacket) it's like going to the trouble of wearing a classic oxford shoe without laces, it's just 'incomplete' . As soon as you eliminate the tie you reduce the level of formality of the ensemble, of course, if this is what you want to project and the situation is appropriate fine. Can you imagine wearing a dinner suit(tuxedo) without a self-tie bow tie ! or worse without socks !!!
Couldn’t agree more….
Years ago I worked in a jewelry store and used a necktie ,I looked at it as a work uniform item .
Mr. Ash, the videos I have seen on your channel are excellent! And you have convinced me to wear a tie. I am currently planning to start my own business doing consulting work. And your video, this one, in particular, has opened my eyes. I will wear a suit and a tie to my first business meeting, regardless of how the client is dressed.
Thank you very much, sir.
And I will start supporting your channel as soon as I am in a position to do so.
GOD bless you and your family always.
Best of luck!
Excellent video. The tie is a sartorial garnish. Decoration as utility.
Though my office dress code do not allow loose clothing, ties, scarfs, I am fond of it. During winter I wrap my neck with a silk scarf and get noticed by everyone around. I have a lot of ties, wear it spare-time to feel good.
👨🏻💼👨🏼💼👨🏽💼👨🏾💼👨🏿💼 gentlemen all over the world agree. As a child i saw most men wear ties poor or rich .
Excellent advice!
Good points. And good accent too!
Great video! I can't believe I've never seen any of your videos before now. I consider myself pretty well dressed, and I've been wearing ties less since Cov!d... you've rejuvenated my interested in them!
I’m not usually a tie-guy (!) but I’ve just been up to the old wardrobe and searched the tie drawer for tomorrow, when I shall wear one to the supermarket. For the smart casual outfit, I find that my waistcoat habit adds a bit of interest. But nothing beats the tie for authority, self confidence and bearing - the quintessential masculine garment, perhaps?
4:43 don't ever button the bottom button of 2 button suit
Bravo Ash, Bravo. A very well made argument for neckties. I didn't wear ties often as a youth: mass, the rare wedding or funeral and my high school graduation. But, I always wanted to. I joined the military after graduation and wore the Class A Dress Uniform when it was required (Uniform of the Day). I did enjoy it. Even as a 18-year-old young man, I felt empowered. One time, I saw a very young boy drop his ball and I retrieved it and handed it back to him. His mother said, "Say thank-you to the man." It was the first time an adult referred to me as a man.
After my discharge I enrolled in college and little need to wear tie and so I didn't. Then, I interviewed for a corporate and had to a wear suit & tie. It felt great. The dress code for men at the time was Corporate Casual (slacks, collared shirt and loafer or dress shoes) and dove right in. There were the occasions wear a suite & tie was appropriate: company holiday party, annual all employee meeting, and meeting with corporate clients. So while not enough for my tastes, I did have the opportunity to be more buttoned-up. Upon graduating college, I went to work for a private security/military company. Depending on the assignment, ties were mandatory. I always commanded more respect when I did.
Wouldn't be great if we men decided to be more dressed up for work, play and everything in-between? For work, I like the idea of men dressing up not because we are required to, but because we want to. A style evolution that moves towards sartorially smart, instead of the slow creep towards uber-casual. I for one do not want to wear my gym clothes to work. But, I believe I'm in the minority. A tip of the cap to you, for this nice episode.
When I was six, I very impertinently asked an elderly family friend (he was in his nineties at the time, and always scrupulously well turned out) why he insisted on wearing a necktie and carrying a clean white linen handkerchief in his cuff to informal family functions. He simply replied, “it’s the thing to do”. 🙂
I wore a tie to work for years. No longer though as my style has since changed to a more business casual look.
Ash, thank you for your videos. Thoroughly enjoy them, as I am trying to improve my wardrobe to act my age of 64, all the while being a construction worker. I humbly suggest that even tho fashion says large watches are acceptable and on trend, this ensemble would be much better presented in a datejust 36mm. Just my 2 cents as a 40 year watch collector and enthusiast. All meant in humility; I never was good at diplomacy. Please keep giving me helpful videos and I can't wait for another vid where you critique viewers sent in photos.
Coming on Wednesday
Hello Sir,
I am not British, but am a USA citizen. Usually, I watch what I consider to be your American version, "Fashion Over Forty." The chap who produces this series offers like you, great styling tips.
Regarding ties, I usually wear one in the classroom, except for dress-down Fridays (I am a middle/high school substitute teacher, my semi-retired career). It's interesting to note how many students ask me if I'm going to be the new principal or why I even wear a tie!
I simply tell them that it's how I give respect to the school, i.e. the Staff AND students; and they look so happy with that comment!
Have a wee wedding coming up...perhaps a bit sad but im looking forward to picking out a new fun tie for the occasion. Bit if a cultural issue accross the UK, in our London office there isnt a tie in sight, but in the glasgow office most people wear them. Its true, professionally, if your not wearing a tie people think you cant be bothered and are lazy...wear a tie and its the opposite
Coming back on this. I got myself an orange horse chessboard tie from hermes. very cool print. im certain itll hold 50-70% of its resell value, making it the best purchase of that brand. I think their ties are the best value for money items. Plus a unique feel and color and pattern you cant get anywhere else. I personally love their animal print ties, not the ones with the flashy h symbol repeating in the tie.
I’m only 40 and I can’t imagine a world where men don’t wear neckties!
What about India, Africa and Arabia? There are gentlemen in those worlds, too...
@@dieglhix Overliteral thinking my friend. However, touche🤣👊.
Ties are one of my favorite collectibles because they are found so cheap in thrift stores. I particularly love floral print ties. Yin and yang - a little feminine sensibility in man allows him to connect emotionally to the fairer sex!
Really like your pocket square too, Ash.
For me, wearing a tie provides me warmth, eventhough it is not much
I think the neck tie is the best opportunity to add some color to a suit.
Good video, sir. Yes, there are many who don't wear a tie anymore. I still wear a tie to a nice restaurant or job interview.
Maybe this is primarily an American thing, but tie clips are another fun and stylish thing to collect. Very useful here in windy Chicago!
Hi Ash, I really enjoyed your series at Oak Lodge. I'm a tie wearer and love the opportunity to stamp my style on an ensemble.
As an ex Military man I know that you will be well qualified when handling an iron. I have a question....Knowing your love of chinos, do you iron them flat or steam a crease into them? Could you point me in the right direction. Many thanks, Phil from Sydney
Great question. I personally never iron a crease into chinos, unless they came from the manufacturer with such a crease installed. I iron my chinos flat as God intended.
@@TheChapsGuide Many thanks Ash. I'm more than comfortable with your answer :)
Hello Ash, totally agree, when I left my country to start working in Ireland in a completely new business (sales over the phone) I was wearing a suit, shirts and ties...that gave me lots of opportunities and promotions, not because I was the best salesman, purely because I was the best dressed man in (a huge) room 😉👍 Thanks for yet another interesting video that brought memories of my past life 👍
Incredible video!!! 👏🏽👏🏽👏🏽🤝🏽👍🏽 Spoke about phycology, key elements, suggestions very manifique 👌🏼 Thanks again Chap from California USA
Yes it is nice to wear a tie with a shirt top done up. And why not too.
My family felt it was nice I was wearing one too.
Thank you for this video. It made me reconsider wearing ties again.
I always thought a suit without a tie looks unbalanced, incomplete. But I gave it up because these days no one in the tech industry wears it, including the CEOs, and increasingly I felt self-conscious wearing it.
What would be your advice for this case?
Grasp the initiative and go with something subtle and elegant, such as a woven tie or textured tie that is not too formal in nature.
I like the points you made in this video discussion. I will add something. Wearing a tie can be a personal statement of course but a person can also be aware of his environment, the group he will be with. No one "has" to assume a superior visual impression like some kind of a "look at me" guy who is always the one to make everyone feel badly about themselves. A jacket can be removed, for instance. Sleeves can be rolled up if desired. Also, the jacket buttons can be unfastened to achieve a friendlier approach when that is desired. Take, for instant the John Wick movies. He wears a tie and jacket, but the jacket is not always buttoned. Loosen up man! That is also a "look". Thanks again.
Hi Ash, wise words. Just out of interest how many neck ties do you own? I have to confess I stopped counting after I reached 60. 99% of which are silk. I love the versatility of how a different tie can be used to change the look of any outfit. Keep the videos coming. Thanks.
I had a mass clear out last year and culled about 50 ties that I had not worn for years - I still easily have about 100 ties in the collection. I rarely buy any new ones now, unless they really grab my attention.
I wear a tie as a sign of dignity and respect.
Thank you my name is charlie I love neck tie I have a collection of them
This is a video that has to be seen by many men nowadays.
As a young graduate who has just started working in the public sector, it is interesting how few other staff wear ties. Working from home does not allow for ties really, so whenever I get to go into the office, I will usually wear a tie. I've learned that wearing a sombre, professional tie in a dark solid colour looks too formal against the rest of the staff (as you pointed out when you mentioned dark ties can be sombre) - so in future I look forward to wearing tartan ties, knit ties, florals etc so I still look sharp and make an impression but I don't look too sombre amongst all the smart casual attire!
I’m permanently based from home (and have been for 16 years) and sometimes wear a tie at home when I have to verbally assess trainee surveyors online via Teams.
I agree 100%. I loathe the business suit/no tie combo. It reeks of ersatz down with peeps/kids pretence. Popularised by bbc reporters and politicians. A style averse signifier of fake mateyness.
I know you did a video on lessons learned in law enforcement already. Though hearing about you doing detective work as well makes me interested in hearing about about skills you learned in that part of your carreer.
3 Additional benefits of neckwear:
1). It looks incredibly unflattering of an older man displaying his Turkey neck!
2). The tie is that item closest to one’s face, therefore provides a complete symmetry to the outfit.
3). The date you’re going out (assuming he/she likes you) won’t be able to contain their excitement in anticipating ripping off that piece of neckwear later that evening …..less flesh on display can be way more exciting for them.
4). It looks way “cooler” IMHO to have a work vs social distinction of attire. I liken tieless suits to a convertible motor: it just doesn’t look cool driving around “topless” in the pouring rain ie. sh*t hits the fan at work. I’m old enough to remember when men started dropping the tie because it was considered “cool” /“rebellious” even to do so (we would drop them after smart social events, heading to the pub after work etc).. I genuinely believe the tie will make a return and I hope so because the Square Mile where I work is, on the whole, sartorially drab these days 😢
Hi Ash, I hope this is not a stupid question but if i wore a blazer to a restaurant should I remove it when sitting down to eat or leave it on?
I would leave it on, just ensure you undo your button when being seated.
Ash I most certainly always wear a tie with my Attire as for today I wear my Lethao brand burgundy brogue Oxford Dress shoes and lighter charcoal trousers Brook Brothers brown hugo boss leather belt white slim fit Dress shirt Calvin Klein and a gold pattern tie with a Prince Albert knot a brown band dress watch hugo boss with gold edges and blue dial my light blue and grey pattern brook Tarvener linnen sport coat and my fine English Gentleman fur felt Bowler hat with the higher crown and as fragrance choice the Sultan EDT layerd with the lataffa Amyst
A magnificent ensemble sir! Bravo!
@TheChapsGuide thank you Sir may I say your Attire is as well always on point in the Sartorial community
A tie gives confidence to the wearer.
I buy British...often on eBay.
Must be a Saturday morning.
Indeed it is.
Except on the hottest days in July and August, when I might wear an open collar linen shirt with a jacket and let my pocket square provide the colour and interest that would otherwise be the duty of a tie, I rarely leave the house without one, and I find that doing so instantly sets me apart from about ninety -five percent of the men I encounter, including the few who are wearing suits.
I particularly love silk ties with paisley patterns, but am also a fan of wool ties in the autumn months, when worn with a tweed jacket, regimental striped ties in silk, and silk ties with polka dots, or small geometric patterns.
Picking a pocket square that compliments the tie, and the rest of my outfit, is sometimes a bit of a challenge, but it must be said that one must NEVER wear a pocket square that matches the tie exactly. -This screams sartorial amateur like nothing else, in my opinion.
Also, novelty ties, Christmas ties, and ties made of leather should, in my opinion, be confined to the dustbin, along with bright, monochromatic ties made out of polyester. (Why wear a polyester tie when you can get high quality silk ones at thrift shops for one or two dollars?)
There stands the smartest man in Great Britain. Ash Jones for PM!
Well, our current PM could do with a chat about his personal appearance that is for sure.
Curious, where do you stand on bow-ties? I've recently been expanding my bow-tie collection.
I own a few. Not seen much these days and wearers run the risk of being seen as a touch eccentric. But in the right situation, they bring joy to an outfit
A RAF tie and a Rolex GMT Master 2 with a Pepsi bezel is a match made in heaven.
Fantastic vid. I always wondered the origins of a tie.
One problem tho. Idk what is the benefit of looking like you have money when you don't. Unless it is to attract women. Which is good I guess.
4:44, why is Boris Johnson seen with the bottom button of his jacket buttoned up? Not expected from a gentleman of his stature and class, is it?
but do i have to watch out if i wear more neatly than my boss/superior? it might be seen as a hint towards the boss that he isn’t well dressed and can be negative..
I work in a formal setting but all of my colleagues apart from the senior managers choose not to wear a tie. I only avoid wearing one just to blend in with the people at my level. This video has made an impact on me and I certainly get your point. I'm going to start wearing a tie everyday at work even if it means being an outlier among the others.
Lead the style revolution in your personal orbit. It begins with one chap and will soon spread!
What about storing ties. How ? Rolled up? Hung? Flat? Ties are costly. Mine average $145US$ each. How do you keep them well
I personally use a tie rack.
Must Wear NECKTIE.
Nice vid Ash, are those brass buttons on your blazer and what is the pattern on them?
Starlight
They are brass effect (anodised). The pattern is just a generic symbol. The blazer is from Jaeger.
I've got to a stage in my life when I can afford to only wear a tie at weddings and funerals, and I'm quite happy with that.
I am an unashamed tie snob. I wear only silk ties knotted with a tight Windsor .
I cannot agree that a tie does not help to keep one warm.
Same here
I agree with most of what Ash said but, should you follow style advice from someone who wears a huge diver watch with his necktie?
I ask with some trepidation, but where did that 'doctor' outfit come from?
Best not to ask. But I am no longer the holder of a medical licence to practice, so you are safe!
Good morning....I agree with you...i am in my 70s and i still wear a tie.... ...its a big part of my uniform..no desire to change...keep up the great work....peace
But what does one do when no one else, not even the partners and director's, wear ties. I feel like I shouldn't outdress my peers or superior's because that will make them feel like I feel better than them. What do you think about this?
Great question sir, I will try and include it in a Q & A video I am planning at the moment for a thorough response.
As an allergic guy it’s almost mandatory for me to wear a tie in cold weather or I’ll fall prey to intense coughing or sometimes sneezing and even headaches .
So aesthetic reasons aside wearing a tie is a kind of protective dressing for me.
You just can’t replace it with a scarf when you’re staying inside which will be quite cumbersome .
What’s more by wearing a tie I can dress up or down accordingly, I can just loosen the knot and left the collar button undone with my shirt sleeves rolled up when I need to look more relaxed and vice versa.
One thing I want to point out is that AFAIK men’s neckwear was first worn by the soldiers of the Qin Dynasty of ancient China which dated some well over two thousand years ago, just pay attention to the neck of those terracotta soldiers in the tombs in Xian and you’ll have a rough idea.
I have a question: I know thay polyester/nylon is made from petrol-chemicals (plastic), not good at all for clothing, whereas natural fibre is great for clothing (inc shoes), is rayon/viscose OK if one can not afford say silk clothing items, as they may be on welfare! As prices here are very expensive! I have brought a poylester black bow tie (not easy to put on) self-tie, is a slik (self-tie) bow tie easier to put on? 😀
I am an Australian living in New Zealand! 😀
I have many polyester items (pocket squares and scarves). I think they offer a more affordable alternative to silk if it better reflects your budget. A pre-tied bow tie is very easy to wear, but the fun in the bow tie emanates from the self-tie option - for the record, I am rubbish at tying a bow tie!
But sadly in Europe outside Britain Noone wears ties, no politician, no news caster, no bank employee nobody. Open neck is what you see and you are being stared at if wearing a tie.
I don't go with the flow. I always wear tie or bow tie when having a jacket or suit on.
Well not everywhere. I had to wear ties in the dancing school in Vienna
I work for a very politically correct rail company and it is possible for a man to come to work dressed as a woman and get no comeback for it. I’ve known several male staff not like the company uniform shirt and tie and get the female sweatshirt instead. I always wear my shirt tie and jacket despite the snide remarks from other members of staff!
Agreed, Ash. Quality content, indeed. I was the only student in college who wore a tie. Everyone else came in polo shirts and jeans. I didn't wear a suit but always wore dress shirts, trousers and a tie. I do believe it had a role in my being chosen to represent the college in many fests and conferences or promotions or events that required public speaking on behalf of the college.
I used to wear ties but never liked the feeling around the neck. Now I almost never wear them anymore, nor do my clients. The only people I meet who still wear them are -some- consultants and most of the lawyers.
Usually the discomfort part comes the shirt's collar, rather than the tie... But the tie does become uncomfortable when it starts to get warm, with the body heat trapped under the collar; if a suit/blazer is required, then it can get pretty warm...
I used to work at places where a tie is required for all male staff, while I'm not against it despite feeling a noose grabbing or dangling from my neck/collar, I dislike it when female colleagues are free to wear what they want; such as sleeveless, collarless and usually lower cut blouses, which are far more comfortable than men's restrictive long sleeve and tie combo... But then again, attire requirement depending on specific dress code varies for both men and women...
My current workplace switched to a smart casual some time back but recently switched back to a formal dress code, so the tie requirement is now back; only for male staff, ladies can still go collarless and sleeveless...
Because it stands out:True but you can stand out as a bodybuilder with a t-shirt as well
Item of statues and respect: I disagree that people must wear a tie to be respectful but ı do agree that people show more respect when you have one.It is very true ı am mostly mistaken by being a lawyer or business man while ı am not,people at restaurants give me the best place.
Wear ties when having a blazer: Yes,Jacket always looks better with a tie but there are good looks without one too.
I simply wear it since a well tailored suit looks great and it is fun to combine a suit,shirt and tie.It is also very easy to just wear your suit and go out without tought if you have the experience and know how to.
Thank you for the video.
Based on the history presented in this video, the tie is a relatively recent fashion accessory. What was considered well-dressed in Europe before the days of Louis XIV? Why did that go out of style?
When one of my sons was in kindergarten, he insisted on wearing a long sleeved collared button shirt with a neck tie.
A dapper young fellow. Festive salutations - and a Happy New Year
In a society that not only forgoes wearing neckties, but barely even making an attempt to dress at all before going out into the public, dressing well stands out even more I would say. I just never understood how people can go out looking like they either swept their chimneys or changed the oil in their cars! Anyway, sadly I don't have a job that allows me to dress in a respectable fashion, as wearing a tie to work would probably warrant decapitation due to my neck getting caught in a conveyor belt (I'm a maintenance technician in a large warehouse). However, off the clock I very much enjoy looking a dapper as possible-- some people I work with have seen me outside of work and wouldn't have recognized me at first had I not drawn their attention! To me, having a nice and crisp button-up shirt paired with either a standard necktie or a (less formal) Bolo tie with slacks and dress shoes is what I favor when going out. On top of that, I've noticed that when I am shopping in certain stores, I garner the attention of store associates asking me if they can help me-- assuming I have money to spend!
The power of style.
I like your first point about standing out from the crowd. I don't want to look like the ill-dressed rabble out there.
Reason 1-5: Conformity
Skinny ties are the best. So stylish.
I do love a good tie 🙂 but sometimes it would just be way overkill for my daily life. I’m already as is “overdressed” or at least smarter dressed when my peers. Living in a tropical country also makes a tie rather unpractical at times purely because of the heat. I’ll wear a tie on occasions and sometimes when going to a nicer restaurant 🙂 it truly is a shame that not many men wear a tie besides funerals and weddings.
Even if I don't meet a single human face during the day at the office I wouldn't dream of not wearing a tie. However, I think the "aesthetic" point you make at 8:45 is the strongest: without a colourful tie a gentleman's attire looks simply bland. So why should I forego such a feature? And wearing different ties can mulitiply the usage of, say, a blazer: it looks like a different piece of garment every time you wear it.
And particularly, if you've left the "50" mark well behind you, going open-necked simply draws the attention to your not quite so youthful and wrinkled neck :-)
Perhaps you could give us hints on various tie-knots? I recently listened to the channel "The British Dapper" and he gave instructions on doing the "Victoria" and "Prince Albert" knot which I now quite often wear.
Good point! No one needs to see my 52 year old turkey neck
Ash; I corroborate your observation: many colleagues regard any shirt with buttons as dressy. Do you think "that" chap steps-up to his "good" sweatshirt for formal occasions? ;-)
Permit me to say, good sir, your pronunciation of 'assurance' (just off the 8-minute mark) is, to my mind, clipped and proper to the formality of your dress. How would Quintilian have put it: he speaks well who dresses well.