"Ties" The Season

It’s the time of year when Christmas shoppers look for something fun to give. Invariably they look to the Christmas-themed tie. All kinds of such ties are available most anywhere. Choices include snowmen, a variety of Santa’s, Edvard Munch's "Scream" donning a Santa cap, strings of twinkle lights, elves, snowflakes or horse drawn sleighs. But is any of this stuff really appropriate to wear – anywhere?

When it comes to holiday ties, if your intention is to make people laugh donning such a creation might just work – as long as you don’t light up like a walking greeting card.

The key is context. Avoid ties with long messages, or even succinct greetings. They often look too busy, and like you’re trying too hard. Instead, wear a brightly colored festive necktie that adds more fun than a regular business tie - as long as it does not include every verse of “Deck the Halls” on it.

I saw a great dark chocolate-colored tie the other day. It was jazzed up with an abstract geometric squiggle, yes squiggle, of gold and silver; festive, rich, subtle but attention getting.

The textures of tweeds, corduroys, and lush windowpane plaids are carried over with ties woven of wool and silk. Herringbone ties can be paired with tweed sport jackets to convey a warm and sophisticated look conjuring up a vision of oak-paneled libraries lined with leather-bound first editions and sweet-smelling tobacco smoke swirling from hand-carved pipes.

If you’re not into ties try a brightly colored sweater or some other more subtle accessory. Interesting Christmas-season cuff links can be fun and offer a chance to give you a little personal touch that isn't too loud or outrageous. Remember, it's a fine line between festive and foolish. While garish outfits might get you some laughs, preserve your reputation as a class act by avoiding fashion choices that double as Santa wrapping paper. On the other hand try to be a bit more creative than wearing just any combination of red and green.

When in doubt – don’t wear it. At least, that’s what the fashion gurus say. The rest is up to you.