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TODAY'S BELOVEED ITEMS

Tie clip

A tie clip is an accessory used to secure a necktie. While they come in various shapes, the most common type is called a "tie clip," which uses a spring and small notches to grip and secure the tie to the shirt.

▶ [Q&A] How to use and choose tie clips and tie bars - things you need to know again

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The origins of tie clips and tie bars, items used to fasten ties to shirts, are said to date back to mid-19th century Europe.

Back then, ties had far more varieties in terms of shape and knotting style than they do today. Moreover, maintaining the shape after tying was extremely difficult. This was because the technique of using the fabric on the bias—that is, sewing it diagonally to the direction of the weave—to prevent loosening and distortion had not yet been adopted in ties.


Beau Brummell, a true European dandy of the first half of the 19th century, would exchange his ties multiple times if he was even slightly dissatisfied with the shape or fullness of the knot, and he wouldn't go out until he was satisfied. This may be partly because the ties he used were made of linen and starched, and the fabric was not yet cut on the bias. In other words, the item used to fasten a tie to a shirt was designed to maintain its shape when tied.

It became more common around the 1930s. This roughly coincides with the time when the tie worn daily became overwhelmingly concentrated in the four-in-hand knot style that is prevalent today, and when suit styles without waistcoats (vests) began to gain recognition. This was probably because the tie could no longer be securely fastened in that way.

Text by Takahiro Iino

Takahiro Iino: After graduating from university, he worked for a major steel manufacturer before becoming an independent fashion journalist and researcher. He writes about men's clothing in general, including dress shoes and suits, and discusses topics from the perspective of someone with business experience. He also teaches modern and contemporary fashion history at a vocational school and appears on and supervises television programs, making him a well-known figure in men's fashion in general. His books include "Enjoying Dress Shoes: From the First Step to Mastery," "Enjoying Dress Clothing: Choosing an Outfit That Suits Your Body and Mind" (Asahi Shimbun Publications), and "A Comprehensive Guide to Shoe Polishing and Care for Long-Lasting Shoes" (Ikeda Shoten).

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Photo: ISETAN MEN'S net
Text: Takahiro Iino

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