In Search of the Elusive Designer Tie

It has become increasingly difficult to find a designer tie that truly differs from all the rest. We’re offered more choice, but less variety, don’t you think? As a buyer I set out to make a marginal contribution to increase variety and offer another level of choice generally not found in high street stores or websites. I’ve scoured the English continent to find those elusive silk ties that stand out from the rest. There’s an awful lot of talent out there, equal to that found in the top international fashion houses, the only difference is the independents don’t have the marketing budgets to propel them onto the international stage.

The Falling Leaves Silk Tie

First on the list is Cressida Bell with a real gem that only a woman could design, appropriately named “Falling Leaves Tie” it reflects the brilliant hues of nature, a perfect tie for all seasons. Cressida comes from a long line of artists, writers and poets; her Father was Quentin Bell, writer and painter. Her Grandmother was Vanessa Bell the painter and Virginia Wolf her great aunt. Cressida has designed for some big names like Laura Ashley and Richard James. Her ties are screened printed in Gloucestershire, hand made in Essex and available at a handful of boutiques and websites. This tie is a must for any collection.

The Circle and Wave Silk Tie
Next, another unique design, hand printed onto crepe satin silk and fully lined. This one is by Neil Bottle, he works out of his studio on the Kent coast. His customers include Hillary Clinton and Cherrie Blair. Neil has been commissioned by Guggenheim Gallery New York, and the Victoria and Albert Museum in London. His ties have been sold in Harrods and Liberties of London. Now he focuses his energies lecturing at universities in England and abroad, passing on a wealth of knowledge in textile design and print technique. Neil still finds time to produce a small range of silk scarves and silk ties, which are produced in limited quantities, making them collectables.

The Splashes Silk Tie
Shane McCoubrey recently moved from London to Margate on the Kent coast for fresh inspiration. Having worked on brand development for Gucci, Vuitton and Samsonite, Shane decided to harness his energies and develop his own brand. Now his designer ties are gaining recognition, he’s been featured in magazines like Drapers, Arena and Conde Nast. Made from English woven silks, his ties are genuinely hand made and equal in design and quality to any international brand. Watch out for Shane McCoubrey.

The products designed and produced by these designers are true to good form and function. They’re smartly designed, ever functional and due to their handmade nature will give many years good knottage. Most importantly they will hold their value and become genuine collectables; each one is a work of art.

Thanks to dedicated designers like Cressida Bell, Shane McCoubrey and Neil Bottle those in search of the elusive designer tie that truly differs from all the rest are appeased.