Your Tie of Choice: Silk or Polyester?
By Katharine Swan

In your father’s day, it was easy to decide between silk and polyester ties.  The benefits and drawbacks of each were clear-cut: silk ties were suitable for more formal occasions, while polyester ties stood in for daily use.  With the improvements in manufacturing technology in recent years, however, ties of all types have become more accepted, more available – and more affordable.

With so many choices at your fingertips, how do you know which to choose?  Read on to learn the pros and cons of both silk and polyester.

The Time-Honored Classic: Silk Ties

Traditionally, silk ties have been the choice for special occasions.  They tend to have a luxurious look and feel, with their fine textures and elegant finish, making them the perfect way to “dress up” for weddings, high-style parties, important business meetings, and other special events.

Silk ties still present a refined look that many people prefer.  Additionally, they tend to be slightly lighter weight, offering a professional, groomed style while feeling much less restrictive.  With the increased availability and acceptability of alternate choices, the price of silk ties has edged a little closer to their polyester counterparts, making silk an easier choice to make.

However, silk ties can also present a maintenance challenge.  Silk ties need to be dry cleaned frequently, making them considerably more expensive over the long run.  They are also more fragile, requiring a little more caution while tying and untying them, so as not to accidentally stretch their shape; and water or other fluids can ruin the elegant appearance of a silk tie.

Everyman’s Choice: Polyester Ties

You might remember a time when the word “polyester” was used with derision, conjuring images of coarse, cheap fabrics.  With the advances in manufacturing, this is hardly the case anymore.  Polyester can be made to closely imitate the finer fabrics in life, such as silk.

Modern polyester ties have a lot going for them.  Without sacrificing much in the way of appearance, they offer benefits such as less frequent trips to the cleaners and, therefore, fewer maintenance-related expenses.  Polyester ties are also considerably more durable, meaning that they are less likely to be ruined by a spill or a little rough treatment.  On the down side, though, no matter how good they look, polyester will never be able to simulate the feeling it gives you to wear a fine silk tie.

No Such Thing as One Perfect Choice

A seasoned tie-wearer knows that regardless of your personal favorites, you can’t simply stick with one or two types of ties.  The beauty of wearing a tie is the versatility offered by the many different types available on the market.  A well-rounded closet includes silk and polyester ties, ensuring that the perfect choice for the occasion is always within arm’s reach.