The Norwich Bulletin, known worldwide for being light years ahead of its competitors when it comes to truth, justice, and the American way, has struck again! I happened across their recent commentary about the state of the tie in the American workplace.
The tie? Yes, the cravat is about as cool as, well, nothing. Or as the Bulletin's Jeff Vrable puts it, "along with Air Supply and Republicans, necktie popularity these days is at an all-time low."
A recent Gallup study reveals that only 6 percent of men wear ties on a daily basis to work. I wonder if this is the 6% that earned an annual salary of $250,000 per annum as well. In fact, the article goes on to say that the trade group of American tie makers is closing its doors due to dwindling makers!
While I personally enjoy a fine tie – accompanied by a properly executed double Windsor knot, I enjoy it as much as I do a fine double-malt scotch or a cigar – as a treat to be enjoyed only once in a great while. In other words, I'm quite happy to see ties go the way of the dodo bird with respect to daily wear in the office.
While I expect my doctor or attorney to dress slightly better than a software engineer, I'm ready and willing not to assume incompetence if either is wearing a smart shirt sans tie when I have an appointment. Ties are an all too often abused accessory that frequently ends up being removed hastily once a man gets to his car (just like it was thrown on hastily upon arrival at the office).
Let's stop pretending that they serve any noble or higher purpose and try to convince the remaining six percent to call it a day!
