The Art of Wearing Regimental Neckties

Guide to Regimentals and Other Classic Repp Striped Ties

Stripes are one of the most popular patterns for men's neckties. In fact, the diagonal striped look is one of the oldest tie designs, dating back to the 1880s in England. Since then, designers have combined any imaginable color, texture, and pattern to create an endless choice in striped tie designs. Because classic striped ties are such a timeless accessory that any man, regardless of style preference, can take advantage of, we decided to write this style guide.

The Origin of the Regimental Tie
Regimentals had their origin in Great Britain. To help identify themselves in battle, British soldiers used their regiments' colors on their company's flags and pieces of silk, and when not in service these soldiers proudly wore their regimental colors on their neckties. Later on, around the 1920s, regimental ties were expanded to include private clubs, schools, and universities.

The regimental tie made it to the US thanks to the Price of Whales in 1919. While visiting the US he wore a red and navy striped tie of the Grenadier Guards - a regiment where he had previously been an officer. To the repulse of the British, who strongly believe that one can only wear those colors that one carries membership to, the Americans quickly adopted the regimental tie as a fashion statement. That being said, for those visiting the British isles chose your striped ties carefully. For more information please also check out our guide to Business Dress Code in Great Britain.

Suits vs. Sports Coats
Both, suits as well as sports coats and classic blazers are perfect for your classic striped neckties. In terms of suits, excellent are classic 2-button cuts as well as dark blue colors. Both, single-breasted as well as double-breasted styles work well in combination with regimental ties. While classic blue suits are great for these ties, sports coats and traditional blazers can be a great alternative. Below are a few looks we are particularly fond of:

Brown, light blue, and navy striped regimental tie paired with dark navy suit, and tasseled loafers.

If you want to wear a striped tie with a striped shirt, then classic regimental ties are perfect! Here the hunter green and navy striped tie is nicely paired with a narrow blue and white striped shirt.

Always one of our favorite combinations: Pairing your repp-striped ties with Harris tweed jacket. The gingham check shirt chosen here adds yet another pattern element.

Regimental ties can just as easily paired with a more casual summer ensemble. Here the navy and red striped tie is paired with beige cotton jacket, blue chinos, and monk-strap dress shoes.



Dress Shoes & Other Accessories
To further emphasize the classic look of the regimental tie, we suggest traditional accessories. In terms of dress shoes, classic oxfords as well as tasseled penny loafers come to mind. Other great accessories are umbrellas, bowler hats, pocket watches, and pocket squares.

British Royalty is showing us how to properly accessorize the classic regimental tie. Here Price William is wearing a gray suit, classic white shirt, navy & red striped tie, and bowler hat.

Your Bows-n-Ties.com Team