New Years is approaching and so the texts and calls from friends have started to pour in. What color tie should I wear with this shirt? Should I go with the brown or black shoes? Round toe or square? I have been trying to answer all these as they come in, but for those who are looking to try something wild, I’ve got some suggestions for changing up the tie, which is the easiest thing to do something fun with and really makes a huge difference to the outfit (I’m assuming that we’re all ‘dressing up’ for New Years, as is generally the tradition).

First we have two Victorian styles of neckwear, the first is called a Puff tie and is a mix between an ascot and a scarf, which one ties tightly to the neck and then lets fall freely down the front of the shirt.

The next is called a Ruche tie, which is a style of ’scrunching’ the cravat to achieve the look here. One uses a regular ascot or cravat but ties it using the method found here. These really only look right with a vest, otherwise, the extra material hanging from the tie just floats around and goes wild. The vest keeps the extra material tucked in and positioned correctly.

These past two styles will definitely be a talking point and crowd pleaser if carried off well. If you’re looking for something a little bit more reserved or more ’stylish’ or relaxed, try the loose ascot look Beckham is rocking in the tuxedo below. This is a look that not everyone can pull off, but with the proper accessories and attitude, this will steal the show. Notice that the wild style of the tie is the real star of this outfit, the actual clothes themselves are reserved. Black pants, black jacket, plain white shirt. When adding something unusual like an ascot make sure to play down the rest of the outfit or else you will end up looking like you’re in a costume instead of clothing.

Ascots can be found pretty easily online just by searching around or checking out vintage stores that have mens sections, I will go into that later, the point here is to mix up one of the usually standard parts of your outfit and having a little fun with tradition.

More New Years tips to come!