Meet the Powerful and Iconic Grenadine Tie
Image Credit: Aklasu Navy Grenadine Tie
Mensah Aklasu
When powerful men and style icons want a necktie to accentuate their strength, they choose grenadine ties. Sean Connery's James Bond wore Grenadines while saving the world. It's a fabric inextricably linked to a certain suave, almost intimidating elegance.
So what makes grenadine ties so special? We'll show you. More importantly, we'll talk about how you can harness its power.
First, It's Not Knit, It's Grenadine
Even if you haven't heard of a grenadine tie before, you've likely seen one—and possibly mistaken it for a knit tie. It's a common mistake.
The grenadine tie and the knit tie are more like distant cousins. While the knit tie is formed through (you guessed it) knitting, grenadine is a woven fabric produced by a loom.
Grenadine ties superficially resemble knit ties because of the particular method of weaving involved: The weft and warp are twisted around each other in such a way to produce a highly textured fabric with much visual interest.
However, knit ties are best worn in slightly more informal settings, as they lend a casual air to an outfit. Meanwhile, grenadine ties can be appropriate for both semi-formal and formal wear.
Versatile, Timeless, and Understated
The incredible thing about grenadine is its versatility. It can be sharp enough for political backstabbing, or warm and welcoming enough for a wedding reception. It all comes down to what knot you use, and what shirts and suits you pair with the tie.
Grenadine ties are most often produced in solid and subdued colours which makes its unique texture the focal point. The subtle class and simplicity of the grenadine tie help it pair well with a wide variety of outfits, including shirts with 'busier' patterns.
If you prefer a minimalist wardrobe and have only a small selection of ties, a grenadine tie in a navy blue really ought to be included among them. A navy blue grenadine tie is utterly timeless and will complement almost any combination of shirt and suit you can imagine.
For a more seasonally specific tie, grenadine in a rich burgundy can add a dash of warmth to any winter outfit. Grenadine is sometimes produced in multi-coloured patterns, but the pattern should still be simple and elegant enough to allow the texture of the tie to shine through.
How to Wield a Grenadine Tie
Grenadines are a fairly weighty fabric. It's best to stick to simple knots. A Four-in-Hand or a double Four-in-Hand still create large, well-defined knots that pair nicely with your common semi-spread collar.
If there is only one knot you know how to tie, it's a Four-in-Hand. The Four-in-Hand is an asymmetrical knot that can lend a charming look of dishabille to your outfit. However, if you seek symmetrical perfection with your grenadine tie, it is better to opt for the Kelvin knot.
No matter how you choose to wear it, a grenadine tie makes an excellent addition to any wardrobe. Plus, it can't hurt to go through life feeling a little bit like James Bond. Channelling that easy suaveness has got to be good for anyone's mood—and when you feel good, you better believe you look good too.
Aklasu Grenadine Ties
The Weave is Prestigious
Our Grenadines are produced by near century-old traditional wooden looms in Como, Italy by one of the oldest mills in Italy. This artisanal technique produces an authentically beautiful three-dimensional textured weave, making it very rare to come by.
Garza Fina Weave
There are two main types of grenadines: garza grossa and garza fina. Garza grossa is a loose weave while garza fina is much finer. The tighter weave makes for a more resilient tie that won't easily get snagged and damaged. Aklasu is partial to the garza fina weave for its versatility and durability.
The Tie Keeper
Unlike some brands, our keepers are made of the same material as the tie's envelope. This makes for a more durable and quality tie.
100% Como Silk
A great tie starts with quality raw materials. Each one of our ties is made from the best silk in the world which is found in Como, Italy. That's where our ties are made too! Only a handful of mills make authentic grenadine - it is truly special.
Wool Interlining
The interlining helps give a tie its shape. We use wool because it is more wrinkle resistant versus cotton or synthetics used by other brands. It costs a little extra but it's worth it!
