Free Stuff : Wool Scarf from The Tie Bar

I was recently offered a wool scarf from the Tie Bar to review here. For those that don't know, the Tie Bar is an online shop specializing in inexpensive ties and accessories. The scarves are a relatively new venture for them, and they asked me if I wouldn't mind sharing my thoughts on one here. I chose the one above, in a pattern they call "Bucktown Houndstooth", a small scale brown and tan houndstooth check with rust and hunter green accents.

I'll begin by saying I'm a fan. The wool is soft against the skin, and the scarf is a full six feet log, plenty of length to tie in a know and cover the chest for warmth. At $25, I think this is a real value, as most inexpensive scarves I've come across are either not as long or not as soft. Made in China, its true, but so are the one's at Target or any other such place and at least the Tie Bar offers them in a better choice of classic patterns than many places.

They also offer a wide range of neckties and bow ties, most for $15 or so. If you're building a tie wardrobe on a budget and can't shop thrift like I do, these could be a good option. True, they have some very flashy options I don;t really care for, but they also have stripes, plaids, and classic small patterns in wool, silk, and cotton, as well as an extensive collection of knits in both wool and silk. You can even narrow your search by width of tie, which ranges anywhere from 2-3 1/2 inches, so whether you're young and hip and into the high and tight look, or a burgeoning old fart like me who prefers a more classic cut, they've got you covered. Most websites I've encountered tend to cater to one camp or the others. I've often considered checking out some of the knit stripes, but was wary of the quality. There are a lot of fun socks offered for $8.00 a pair that look like a deal too, as well as some silk braces for $25, also not a bad price (just stay away from the clip-on suspenders. I don't care how many dudes are wearing them in Italy right now). This scarf has convinced me that their other products are likely to be well worth the money. 

Endless Tweed

Herringbone, houndstooth, glen check and tattersall. I've been stockpiling the heavy goods all Summer. Coming soon to Top Shelf Flea Market 6.

Check Twice

Wool houndstooth bow tie, generous gift of Mrs. Ellie La Veer Stager, cream colored, spread collar shirt with tattersall check in black, hunter green and rust in soft cotton flannel by Ralphie ($3.99), lambswool sweater vest, made in England for Brooks Brothers, $4.49.  On top, a Barbour jacket and brown tweed cap with embroidered pheasants; rainy, dreary Autumn day.

All that's missing are some Irish setters, a long flask of single malt, and a couple hundred acres of damp British countryside.

p.s. new ties in the Shop. Go see.