The Silentist

Notes

ifitseasy asked: I don't know if you're much of the bowtie kind of guy, but where are some good places to get a bowtie in Chicago, within a reasonable price? I'm not particularly interested in the pre-tied/clip ons.

I’m not really a bowtie guy myself (basically, I end up really angry for half an hour trying to get it tied right), but I do have a few recommendations:

Cheap: The Tie Bar — Tons of options, all for $15. I would stay away from their satin silk ones, which tends to fray easily if you have rough/dry fingers. But the twill silk, wool and cotton ones should be just fine. And, each of their styles comes in self-tie. 

Mid-range: The Cordial Churchman — If you’re the type of person who wants something hand-crafted in the U.S.A. and likes the idea of helping a husband and wife team grow their independent business, then this is a great choice. They’re home of the official Put This On bowtie and prices average around $30. Best of all, since each of them are handmade, you get to pick what kind of style you want (darted, classic, butterfly, etc.), which is a great touch. 

If you’re into the more trad-ish, preppy look, then give J.Press a try. Their entire collection is on sale right now. Mountain & Sackett also has bowties in a similar price range. 

Pricey: If you’re into the more dandy-ish appeal of a bowtie, then I’d suggest checking out Fine & Dandy Shop and Shrine Haberdashers. The patterns at these places are a bit more unique and bolder, in my opinion. 

If you’re into more casual fabrics and vintage appeal, General Knot Co. is worth taking a look at, where they use deadstock fabrics from decades ago to create more casual neckwear. Definitely rare patterns that are unlikely to be seen worn by many others.

Filed under bowties