Vintage Dilemma: Schoolboy Tie
04/04/2011 § 4 Comments
You may recall my success at the Ralph Lauren Home Sale last month, but aside from the amazing phonograph I picked up, I also happened to find a precious tie that I just had to have. Of shorter length, it was immediately obvious that this was a young boy’s tie. From the frayed and somewhat uneven edges, and lack of any manufacturer’s label, it became apparent that I was looking at something handmade.
Even though it was a little worse for wear, I decided that I wanted to take it home. I had a picture in my mind of a mother working diligently over her son’s tie, choosing the silk and painstakingly folding and stitching it into shape. I like the colors and I usually wear my ties tucked in, anyway, so I figured that it wouldn’t matter that the ends were a bit tattered. It was when I turned the tie over that I fell in love with it.
Written on the underside of the tie is the name of its former owner — James Bennett. Having a name to add to the fantasy completely sealed the deal, and I happily carried my little tie home. However, I now am faced with a dilemma. I am torn between wanting to wear the tie and framing it. I think it could be quite handsome under glass with a dark wooden and gold frame, no? How silly James Bennett would think that was!
Quite Continental 
Go ahead and wear it, if you like.
Handmade neckties were all the rage back in the late 60’s, early 70’s. I made several for my own father back in the day. You could make your own ties, selecting the exact fabric/colors/print to suit your taste!
Ok if you have the perfect shirt that’s calling its name than you just have to wear it. Or you could wear it on a special day. This way, once you do frame it you have memories attached, but being able to make your own ties would be great.
I say go with Donna’s advice, make your own, and then frame James’. Best of both worlds!
Hey,
I think you should wear it 😛 Anyways I have a school tie that is the same with this one, picked it from ebay. It’s 52 inches long though, so if you want a still good looking tie for wearing, and also one in a frame, just reply to this message and I send you the link (A fan of school ties) 😀