Neckwear tastes tied to the times

IF you want a true indicator of whether the economy is about to tank or boom, look in the tie section of your nearest department store. An abundance of decorative designs, floral patterns and bright colours? All is probably fine in the world.

IF you want a true indicator of whether the economy is about to tank or boom, look in the tie section of your nearest department store. An abundance of decorative designs, floral patterns and bright colours? All is probably fine in the world.

If, on the other hand, you see strong, monochromatic designs in traditional colours such as navy and red, or regimental club-style stripes, the chances are things are about to head south.

Fashion stylist Ken Thompson, busy putting the final touches to Myer's autumn-winter collection show to take place in Melbourne tonight, said signs of a coming recession were affecting necktie styles worldwide.

"Ties this season are much more conservative than they have been in previous seasons and we're seeing a lot of stripes and more muted colours," he said.

But Sydney-based tie-maker Shane Rochefort said there was a return to striped ties in stronger colours this season. "A lot of my customers also want alternative, quirkier combinations in their stripes such as a strong burgundy with a soft pink," he said. It's not just tie patterns that change, but also the people buying them, he says. "What I notice more during hard times is that the types of professions change.

"The bankers become a bit more subdued and I get a lot more legal people coming in to buy ties."

Melbourne banker Stuart Laidlaw, during a visit to Rochefort's Sydney store, said he preferred to make a statement with his ties.

"I look for bold designs to wear to events, but you have to wear the more conservative and traditional ties for work," he said.

- Wish special fashion issue in The Australian on Friday