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Loose ties -- ok?

dj-jd

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When (if ever) and with what is it alright to wear a tie with a very loose knot? Is this currently in style? If so, what does it go with specifically, and how loose is the tie? Any pics?

Thanks,
J
 

hamish5178

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Originally Posted by dj-jd
When (if ever) and with what is it alright to wear a tie with a very loose knot? Is this currently in style? If so, what does it go with specifically, and how loose is the tie? Any pics? Thanks, J
In casual situations I tend to leave the top button undone and leave the tie a smidge lose. Cardigan and jeans, etc. edit: wait, lose knot? That's gross and lame. Mall kiosk employee status.
 

AB01

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When you go to a bar in your workclothes and either sit down for a beer with some work buddies or play a game of pool/darts. The lose tie is a functional piece of clothing - necessary for movement and relaxing. Otherwise have it tight. If your shirts are the right size, you'll breathe just fine.
 

GuidoWongolini

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At the end of the day when it is appropriate to have a "Devil may care swagger..", smoking a Cuban...
L1070325.jpg


Or if you have a pair of Fins to entertain..
L1070276.jpg


But if you have to think about it or force it.. Then you are not ready..
 

tlmusic

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The only "people" that seem to pull off the loose tie look irreproachably are characters in film noir movies: detectives, jazz musicians, gangsters, hard working laborers etc.

To me, it's an affectation that is difficult to pull off in real life.
 

FidelCashflow

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If I'm working late and one of the last people at the office, I'll do it. for some reason ties seem to bother me after about 8 hours.

Also if I'm at an event like a wedding and I'm working up a sweat on the dancefloor when the light are down, I'll loosen it up. But fix it as soon as I step away from the dance floor lest I look like a drunk.
 

dj-jd

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Which brings up another point, and I suppose the underlying question here: How might I begin the process of transforming into a film noir character?
 

tlmusic

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Originally Posted by dj-jd
Which brings up another point, and I suppose the underlying question here: How might I begin the process of transforming into a film noir character?

There must always be a dramatic reason to display a loose tie. In this example from Laura (1944), Dana Andrews is an cop working on the murder case of a beautiful woman that he has become obsessed with. That's a painting of her in the background. He's hanging out in the murder victim's apartment getting drunk. It's also super hot summertime in New York City. Situations that call for loose ties: high temperatures and uncomfortable surroundings.

08_15_06_laura.jpg


It's also a private moment. Remember, loose ties are not displayed in public unless there is a specific dramatic reason. Loose ties are not done half heartedly. The tie is pulled down sufficiently to show that it wasn't an accident. You must have a long point collar, and it must be unfused so it can be appropriately wrinkled and roll up a bit. Modern shirts with fused collars look way too stiff and spoil the look. Pomade in the hair completes the vibe. Hair must be slightly tousled.

Anyway, when the real girl unexpectedly shows up, he quickly fixes his tie and puts his jacket on. The loose tie is not some kind of fashion statement to be worn in polite company.
 

Orsini

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I do not recommend this. Unless you are extremely young, thin, and charming, this looks dreadful.

When your shirt collar fits properly, you should be able to insert two fingers into your buttoned shirt collar without discomfort.
 

unjung

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When you put in more than 12 hours in the office in a day.

Otherwise, get shirts that bloody fit in the neck.

Christ it's slobbish.
 

mkarim

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Originally Posted by Orsini
...Unless you are extremely young, thin, and charming

Ah, I am all of the above...
smile.gif
 

DoTheGrownup

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I loosen mine on the bus ride home. For some reason a tie that has not bothered me all day long makes me feel like I am going to suffocate as soon as I get on the bus home.
 

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