A Tie For All Seasons

And as autumn approaches fashion completes another seasonal cycle. And we wait in great anticipation for new styles freshly watered down from the catwalks. New designers emerge while others blend in with the back ground. And so another turbulent season approaches. Buyers like me have to be in close communion with the turbulence of an industry subject to constant change. For the online shop I buy for, developing a theme is as important as selecting styles by designers. The chosen theme is “made in England” it goes against the grain as more and more brands head East to reduce production costs, at risk of devaluing their brand.

If you’re looking for value, there is always something new and exciting, but not easy to find. “Made in England” individuality and originality need not cost a fortune, so if your budget is a little tight, don’t be concerned, because there are brand names that cater to your needs, at the right price.

One prime example is Timothy Everest a long time emerging Savile Row tailor, remember this name, it will be making fashion headlines on a regular basis over the next five years. His ties are accompanied by the conservatism expected of Savile Row, but without loosing a hint of originality, affordable luxury best describes Timothy’s ties, made in England with the Savile Row stamp of approval, all this for £45.00.

Moving slightly away from the conservative tone of Savile Row, and across the Thames River to Battersea, we take a look at Ian Flaherty, a man of substantial artistic talent. Already renowned world wide for his vibrant cufflink designs, he uses pure English Pewter, Swarovski Crystals and brilliant enamels. His silk ties strike a similar chord, they reflect through colour arrangement and symmetry, brilliance, unique to Ian Flaherty. Slightly more expensive than Timothy Everest at £59.00, all his designs are produced in limited quantities and handmade in London. They’re sure to give many years good knottage.

And to a more unlikely candidate: Vivienne Westwood, founder and promoter of the Punk Style. She has ventured down every road from designing evening gowns to crockery for Wedgwood. Three times winner of “fashion designer of the year” and awarded DBE in 2006 for her contribution to the fashion industry. Vivienne’s ties are as original as you can get without being garish novelties. In August her spring summer collection will be on display. The big surprise is her cufflinks they’re as refreshing as a cool breeze on a hot summer’s day. It’s easy to see why Vivienne is held in such high regard. And her ties are only £55.00, not bad, considering her credentials.

As autumn approaches I look forward to spring summer, not to welcome the warm weather but to welcome the arrival of the new collections of some of my favourite designers. “English made true to my theme”.