Next to your face, the V-shaped area formed by one's lapels, shirt, and tie is the focal point of business attire, particularly the apex, the point where the collar and tie merge together at the knot. Ties should be made from 100 percent silk. They should be constructed by hand for proper drape and always be tied with a dimple below the knot. Tie widths follow lapel widths, fluctuating with trends from 2 to 5 inches wide. A bottom width of 3 inches is right in the middle, and rarely looks out of style.

Patterns for ties should coordinate with the suit and shirt for which they were selected. Predominant background colors should complement or blend with decoration colors within the suit and or shirt. Size and dimension of the pattern should reflect current trends. Tie and fabric manufacturers work together to dovetail colors and patterns so that they hit the stores at the same time. For example, if gold is an important background color, that must be decided 18 months in advance. We share this information with our customers now, so they can purchase clothing on the right end of the fashion cycle, as opposed to the end of the cycle, as happens with items hanging in department stores.

We also make formal wear accessories like bowties and cummerbunds from the same material as the facing on the coat so it all matches.