Fashions come and fashions go; sometimes they disappear for a while but almost always reappear in a slightly changed but recognisable form. Fashions for men often have military origins, and the history of men’s cravats is just one example.
According to accepted records, the word 'cravat' comes from the French pronunciation of Croate, ‘cravate’, which was applied to Croatian mercenaries in the 1630s. Their unusual neck wear consisting of long strips of fabric draped around the neck and tied in front was part of the mercenaries' battle dress, and it caught the fancy of French fashionistas.
French Mercenaries set the Trend
The 'cravat' style must have seemed like a seriously big improvement over the stiffened linen ruffs that had been in vogue for men of fashion. As it was much more versatile and wearable than the ruff, which could have served as a neck brace and offered about as much comfort. This was, for it’s time, a relatively informal piece of neckwear.
Charles II is credited with bringing the cravat to England in 1660 as the latest in Parisian fashions. Even then he noted that “seamsters” were coming up with so many different cravat designs that one would be hard pressed to describe them all. That situation is still the same today, though men’s cravats are not as common as the more ordinary necktie.
Ascot and Cravat
As an item of interest, when men’s cravats became a widespread fashion accessory, England took them to another level. The ascot, which got its name from the Royal Ascot races, is a variation on the cravat. With definite but subtle differences; cravats and ascots are usually included in the offerings of any retailer dealing in fashions for men. It might help to remember than an ascot is a cravat but a cravat is not an ascot.
Mere words can hardly portray the men’s cravats of today; you really need to go online and view some of the possibilities. From what Charles II described as “a long towel put about the collar” and tied in front with a bow knot, to the elegant silk creations available online and in the more upscale stores and boutiques, they have come a long way.
No Flashy Garish Colours
Above all, men’s cravats are decorative; they may be very full and flowing or relatively narrow, more like a standard necktie width. But you will seldom see them in flashy garish colours or poor quality fabrics. Cravats are almost by definition a class act, and if you're a first-time purchaser be sure to visit one of the sites that explains exactly how to tie a cravat, or get a demonstration from an expert in the shop where you make the purchase.
Typically UK retailers offer both pre-tied and self-tie cravats and the more elegant offerings have pre-set pleats for a smooth appearance without extra bulk at the back of the neck. As for variety, there is virtually no limit to the possibilities. High-end mens fashion selections offer a stunning array of styles, patterns, colours and designs, almost always made of silk and simply exuding elegance.
According to many fashion commentators, men’s cravats are all the rage for 2014, having made a strong comeback after the casual/pop trends of recent years. Printed silk is the lighter weight, more casual mode, to be worn as a stylish accessory with an open collar or even a polo shirt. Woven silk is a heavier, more lustrous material (and more expensive), suitable for colder weather and more formal occasions.
As with so many items these days the internet is the place to shop for the very widest selection of cravat’s available.