From our Schnitzelbahn guest-blogger, BB:
Necks are for more than just necking and serving as a swivel base for the head.
They are one of the foundations for a properly fitted shirt and essential for the proper tying of the cravat. Thus, some reflections on the art: Newscasters, celebrities and some politicians are poor examples, although the Europeans are the winners, uh losers in that arena!
1. Shirts have neck sizes. The purpose is not to find the biggest size but a comfortable no gap FIT.
2. There are 3 main knots: Four in Hand, Windsor and Half Windsor. Simple diagramed instructions are available at any tie shop. Use them Gentlemen. The square knot is for the Boy Scouts.
3. A knot is not a loosely folded loop. It is a KNOT.
4. The open collar, sagging knot is for the after hours bar where it can look cool. Not in the office please.
5. A knot the size of a medium potato is not a universally recognized knot. And... is not pleasing.
6. There is a reason for the huge variety of patterns and colors. There are many colors in Germany other than orange and purple.
;)
6a. Purple and orange stripes are not the answer.
7. Length. Ties are long for a reason the will comfortably fit a variety of heights. The broad end should be approximately at mid belt buckle length. The narrow end is not to be peeping beneath the fat end!
8. Tomato sauce is not allowed on a tie worn in public.
9. Tie your tie in front of a mirror.
10. Or burn them for God's sake!!
Unfortunately the selection in German stores usually is dominated by diagonal stripes, solids, and more diagonal stripes.