In the world of formal fashion, the ascot has long been a staple of men’s style. An ascot is a scarf-like piece of neckwear that is typically worn around the neck and tied in a bow or looped knot at the front.

The ascot is a timeless accessory that adds an air of sophistication to any look, making it an ideal choice for dressy occasions.

What is Ascot?

An ascot is a piece of neckwear that consists of a long scarf-like fabric. It is typically tied in the front giving off an air of sophistication and formality. It was first seen during the 19th century as a popular accessory among British gentlemen, but it has since become a timeless fashion piece for men around the world. An ascot can be made from a variety of fabrics like silk, wool, cotton, and linen, allowing for a varied range of styles and designs.

Ascots have a long and storied history. They originated in Britain during the 19th century, becoming popular with men of the upper class. It was traditionally worn as a casual accessory around the neck, often with a suit or tuxedo. Over time, ascots became more formalized and were seen as being indicative of wealth and high society status.

Importance of Ascots in Fashion

The importance of ascots in fashion has been increasing steadily over the years. They are seen as a timeless accessory that adds an air of sophistication to any look, making them ideal for dressy occasions such as weddings, formal events, and professional meetings. Ascots are also an easy way to add a touch of elegance to any outfit without having to go overboard. For example, pairing an ascot with a simple suit can instantly elevate the look, adding a touch of class and elegance.

Types of Ascots

Self-tied Ascots

Self-tied ascots are the most traditional form of ascot and the most versatile. They are usually made from a single piece of fabric that is folded and looped over itself before being tied in a bow or knot at the front. Self-tied ascots come in a variety of fabrics, colors, and designs, allowing for a lot of personalization when it comes to styling.

Pre-tied Ascots

Pre-tied ascots are a more modern take on the classic ascot look. They come already pre-tied and feature a clip on the back to make them easy to wear. Pre-tied ascots are perfect for those who want an effortless way to add sophistication to their outfit without having to worry about tying it themselves.

Cravats

Another popular form of men’s neckwear is the cravat. A cravat is a long, narrow piece of cloth that is tied around the neck in an ornate way and often comes with decorative frills and designs. Cravats are typically made from silk, satin, or cotton and come in a wide variety of colors and patterns. They are a great way to make a statement with any look and add a touch of flair.

How to Wear Ascots

Formal Attire

Formal attire is one of the most popular ways to wear an ascot. For a classic look, pair a self-tied ascot with a suit. The ascot should be made from a complementary fabric and color that will match the overall look. Be sure to tie it in a neat knot or bow at the front for a polished finish. If you are looking to make more of a statement, try pairing a pre-tied ascot with a tuxedo.

Casual Attire

Ascots can be worn with casual attire as well. To pull off this look, pair a self-tied ascot with an open-collar shirt or opt for a pre-tied ascot with a plain t-shirt for an effortless yet stylish look. A cravat is also a great way to add some flair to a casual outfit, just be sure to keep the rest of your look simple and streamlined.

Accessorizing with Ascots

Ascots are an incredibly versatile accessory that can be used to accessorize a variety of looks. For a classic and timeless look, pair an ascot with a suit or tuxedo. To add some extra flair, consider adding cufflinks and pocket squares in matching colors or patterns. If you’re looking to make more of a statement, you can also style your ascot with a pocket watch or other eye-catching accessories.

Popular Ascot Styles

Paisley Ascots

Paisley Ascots are a popular style of ascot that feature a unique paisley pattern. They are typically made from silk or cotton and come in a variety of colors, including navy, burgundy, and green. These ascots are the perfect way to add some subtle flair to your look and they pair well with suits, tuxedos, and even casual attire.

Polka Dot Ascots

Polka dot ascots are a fun way to add some playful flair to your look. These ascots feature a classic polka dot pattern and come in a variety of colors, from bright and bold hues to more subtle shades. Polka dot ascots can be self-tied or pre-tied for an effortless look and they pair well with both formal and casual attire.

Striped Ascots

Striped Ascots are another popular style of ascot that can add a touch of sophistication to any look. These ascots are typically made from silk or cotton and come in a variety of muted colors, such as navy and gray. Striped ascots are incredibly versatile and can be self-tied or pre-tied for an effortless look. They pair well with suits, tuxedos, and even casual attire.

Celebrities Who Wear Ascots

Celebrities have been wearing ascots for decades as a way to add some sophistication and flair to their look. Some of the most iconic celebrities to wear ascots include Humphrey Bogart, Cary Grant, and Fred Astaire who were often seen sporting the look in films. In more recent years, celebrities such as David Beckham, Brad Pitt, and Ryan Gosling have been seen wearing ascots on the red carpet.

In recent years, ascots have become a popular accessory among modern celebrities. Many of these stars are seen wearing the stylish neckwear on the red carpet and in their everyday looks. Some of the most notable modern celebrities who wear ascots include David Beckham, Brad Pitt, Ryan Gosling, and Justin Timberlake. These stars all showcase how versatile ascots can be and prove that they are a timeless accessory.

Conclusion

Ascots are a timeless and versatile accessory that have been worn by celebrities for decades. They can add sophisticated flair to formal attire and playful style to casual looks. From paisley, polka dot, and striped styles, there is an ascot for virtually every look. Whether you’re looking for a statement-making piece or something more subtle, ascots are sure to make a stylish addition to any wardrobe.

Ascots are a timeless and versatile accessory that can add a touch of sophistication and flair to any look. Whether you’re going for a more formal style or simply looking to elevate your casual attire, ascots are an easy way to instantly pull your look together. With popular styles like paisley, polka dot, and striped, there is always something to suit everyone’s style. So why not give the classic ascot a try and see how it can transform your wardrobe!