Tie Care Guide

Untie it. Every time.

Pulling the narrow end back through a loosened knot is the fastest way to ruin a tie. It twists the bias the blade was cut on, and once the cloth has set into that twist it does not come back. Reverse the knot the way you made it, every single time.

Let it rest

Hang it, or roll it loosely with the wide end on the outside and leave it flat in a drawer. Both work. What does not work is leaving it knotted on a hook overnight. Give a tie a day off between wearings and the wrinkles drop out by themselves.

Creases

Steam, never a hot iron straight onto silk. Hang it in the bathroom while you shower, or pass a steamer an inch away from the surface. If you must iron, use the lowest setting with a cotton cloth between the iron and the tie, and never press the edges flat - the rolled edge is what gives the blade its shape.

Spills

• Blot, do not rub. Rubbing pushes it into the weave and spreads it.
• Water on silk leaves its own mark. Use as little as possible, or none.
• For anything oily, go to a dry cleaner who handles silk - and go soon. Old stains set.
• Never put a tie in a washing machine.

Storing

• Rolled flat in a drawer is kinder than hanging for long storage.
• Keep them out of direct sunlight - it fades dyed silk faster than wear does.
• Travelling: roll the tie and tuck it inside a shoe or a collar, never fold it in four.

Cufflinks, pins and brooches

Metal pieces want a dry box and a soft cloth, nothing more. Wipe them after wearing - skin is mildly acidic and it dulls plating over time. Keep them apart from each other so stones and edges do not scratch. Never use silver polish on a plated finish; it takes the plating off with the tarnish.