What is the origin of the modern necktie?

Question

And did it ever serve a practical purpose?

Answer 1

To dip in your soup

Answer 2

The modern necktie, ascot, and bow tie, descend from the cravat.

.The modern cravat originated in the 1630s; like most men's fashions, between the 17th century and World War I, it was of military origin. In the reign of Louis XIII of France, Croatian mercenaries were enlisted to a regiment supporting the King and Cardinal Richelieu against the Duc de Guise and the Queen Mother, Marie de Medici. The traditional Croat military kit aroused Parisian curiosity in, and about, the unusual, picturesque scarves distinctively knotted at their necks; the cloths used ranged from the coarse-finish cloth of enlisted soldiers, to the fine linens and silks of the officers. The sartorial word "cravat" derives from the French cravate, a corrupt French pronunciation of "Croat" — Croatian "Hrvat" — however, evidence shows the word used in 14th century France and in 16th century Italy. French writer Eustache Deschamps (c. 1340–1407), wrote a ballad containing the phrase: "faites restraindre sa cravate" ("pull his cravat tighter").

Answer 3

Check the link for a history of the necktie..interesting reading!

Answer 4

In 1895 Archibald H. Grunyon returned to Cleethorpes from the Congo with a collection of snake skins. He took to knotting them round his neck and the fashion caught on although silk was cheaper.

Answer 5

It's a bib pointing to dessert.

Answer 6

as my uncle said "the windsor knot is the best"

Answer 7

Purchased one from Marks and sparks..took it back as it was to tight. ;-)