National Tie One On Day

Young man with a stylish tie, posing confidently, urban fashion setting, surrounded by colorful neckties and bow ties.. — National tie one on day illustration

Are you ready to stylishly celebrate National Tie One On Day? This is the day to let loose and have some fun, all while adding a touch of fashion flair to your outfit. Whether you're a fan of neckties, bow ties, or even scarf ties, this day is all about embracing your inner fashionista. So grab your favorite tie, get ready to tie one on, and let's dive into the fascinating history of this stylish national day!

When is Tie One On Day?

It's national tie one on day on the 25th November.

The Origin of National Tie One On Day

Believe it or not, National Tie One On Day has nothing to do with cocktails or getting tipsy (despite what the name might suggest). Instead, this delightful day was actually created as a way to encourage acts of kindness and generosity.

The tradition of wearing a tie on this day started back in 2006 when Elisa Hays, a motivational speaker, wanted to honor her late father and his commitment to service. She chose to wear one of her father's ties as a way to remember his selflessness and inspire others to do good in their communities.

Word about this heartwarming idea quickly spread, and soon people from all walks of life were participating. National Tie One On Day became an opportunity for individuals to use their fashion choices as a conversation starter to raise awareness for various charitable causes.

How to Celebrate National Tie One On Day

Ready to tie one on and make a difference? Here are a few ways you can celebrate this special day:

Wear a tie, bow tie, or scarf tie to show your support for a cause you care about.
Donate gently used ties to organizations that provide professional attire to individuals in need.
Organize a tie drive at your workplace or in your community to collect ties for donation.
Make a financial contribution to a charity that aligns with your interests.
Volunteer your time and skills to help those in need — sometimes the most valuable thing you can give is your presence.

Did You Know?

In the United States, neckties gained popularity in the early 20th century, and the most common knot used was the Four-in-Hand knot. Legend has it that this knot was named after the carriage drivers of the Four-in-Hand Club in London, whose neckties were often tied in a similar fashion. So when you tie your necktie on National Tie One On Day, you're following in the fashion footsteps of those stylish drivers from yesteryear!

History behind the term 'Tie One On'

1900

The birth of neckwear

In the early 1900s, neckties were becoming increasingly popular among men as a fashion accessory. These long pieces of fabric were worn around the neck and tied in various ways to create different styles. The act of 'tying on' a necktie became synonymous with getting dressed up and looking sharp.

1932

Prohibition Era

During the Prohibition era in the United States, from 1920 to 1933, the sale, production, and distribution of alcoholic beverages was prohibited. Speakeasies, illegal drinking establishments, became popular, and clandestine activities were often hinted at using coded language. One such phrase was 'tie one on,' which referred to going out for a drink or getting drunk.

1775

The Birth of the Modern Necktie

In the year 1775, the modern necktie as we know it today can trace its origins to the Croatian mercenaries who fought alongside the French during the American Revolution. These Croatian soldiers wore a distinctive piece of cloth around their necks, which caught the attention of the French aristocracy and soon became a fashionable accessory.

1876

The rise of neckwear

In the year 1876, the term 'tie one on' was born out of the popularity of neckwear, particularly the necktie. During this time, the necktie had become a staple accessory for men's formal attire. It was commonly believed that a well-dressed man always had his tie securely fastened. This fashion trend paved the way for the emergence of the phrase 'tie one on,' which referred to the act of putting on a necktie.

1920s

The Jazz Age and the Roaring Twenties

As the 1920s rolled around, the world experienced a cultural shift known as the Jazz Age. This vibrant decade was characterized by social liberation, wild parties, and carefree attitudes. People would often attend extravagant gatherings where they could dance, socialize, and indulge in excessive drinking. These parties became synonymous with the phrase 'tie one on,' implying that party-goers would loosen their neckties as a symbol of letting loose and enjoying the night.

1800s

The Evolution of the Necktie

During the 1800s, the necktie evolved from a simple piece of fabric to a more refined accessory. Different styles, such as the cravat and the ascot, gained popularity among the upper classes. These styles varied in length, knotting techniques, and materials used, bringing diversity to the neckwear fashion.

1920

Prohibition and tying one on

During the Prohibition era in the 1920s, the phrase 'tie one on' took on a new meaning. Prohibition laws banned the sale and consumption of alcoholic beverages, leading to the rise of illegal drinking establishments, also known as speakeasies. To 'tie one on' was often a euphemism for going out and getting drunk, as individuals would sometimes tie an extra long necktie around their neck before heading to a speakeasy.

1953

Usage in Literature

In 1953, the phrase 'tie one on' made its way into the literary world. It was used by the famous American author J.D. Salinger in his critically acclaimed novel 'The Catcher in the Rye.' The protagonist, Holden Caulfield, uses the expression to describe his excessive drinking. This popular usage contributed to the phrase becoming more widely known and used in everyday conversation.

1960s

Rise in Popularity

Throughout the 1960s, 'tie one on' continued to gain popularity as a slang expression for getting drunk or indulging in alcoholic beverages. The phrase resonated with the counterculture movement of the era and became firmly rooted in American colloquialism. It was often used in casual conversations and portrayed a sense of loosening inhibitions and having a good time.

1950

Drinking culture and partying

In the 1950s, 'tie one on' began to be associated more broadly with excessive drinking and partying. This was a decade known for its vibrant social scene and the emergence of youth culture. The phrase 'tie one on' became a slang term used to describe letting loose and indulging in alcohol-fueled festivities.

1920s

The Slimming Down of the Necktie

In the 1920s, the necktie underwent a transformation as it slimmed down in both width and length. This sleeker style aligned with the overall fashion trend of the era, characterized by slim-cut suits and a more minimalist approach to clothing.

1940s

World War II and the tie-as-an-apron

During World War II, many women joined the workforce while men were away serving in the military. In factories and other workplaces, women often wore aprons tied around their waists for practical reasons. As time went on, these aprons became synonymous with the phrase 'tie one on.' The act of 'tying one on' now meant putting on an apron, representing women taking on new roles and responsibilities in support of the war effort.

1940s

The Rise of the Business Necktie

During the 1940s, the necktie grew in popularity as a symbol of professionalism and formality in the business world. This was largely influenced by the rise of corporations and the emphasis on corporate dress codes. Neckties became a staple accessory for men working in industries such as finance, law, and business.

1970

Expanding metaphoric usage

By the 1970s, the phrase 'tie one on' had evolved into a more general metaphor for indulging in any kind of excessive behavior, not just drinking. It could refer to engaging in wild partying, uninhibited behavior, or even just having a good time. The tie in this context became a symbol for cutting loose and enjoying oneself without reservation.

1980s

Widening Usage

In the 1980s, 'tie one on' expanded beyond its association with alcohol. The phrase began to be used more broadly to signify indulging in any form of excess or celebration. It became a metaphor for letting loose, having fun, or engaging in any activity that involved unabashed enjoyment. This broader usage enabled the phrase to transcend its original reference to drinking.

1970s

Tying one on with alcohol

In the 1970s, 'tie one on' took on a new meaning closely associated with alcohol consumption. It became a popular slang term for getting intoxicated or drinking excessively. This usage of the phrase is often traced back to its association with tying one on a necktie – the notion of 'letting loose' or 'unwinding' after a long day by indulging in alcoholic beverages.

Present

Continued use in popular culture

Today, the term 'tie one on' is still used in informal contexts to describe going out, having a blowout party, or indulging in excesses, whether that be through drinking or other forms of enjoyment. It has become a part of popular culture, appearing in movies, songs, and literature, and continues to evoke the image of letting loose and having a good time.

1970s

The Rebellion Against the Necktie

In the 1970s, the necktie faced a symbolic rebellion as counterculture movements and the casualization of fashion challenged traditional norms. The 'tie one on' phrase emerged during this era as a colloquial expression meaning to loosen or remove one's necktie, symbolizing a rejection of formalities and a desire for freedom.

Present

Variety of interpretations and contexts

Today, the term 'tie one on' has evolved to encompass various interpretations and contexts. It can still refer to the act of putting on a necktie before a formal occasion, symbolizing elegance and professionalism. However, it can also describe the act of letting loose and enjoying oneself at a party or social gathering. Additionally, 'tie one on' retains its association with alcohol, signifying indulgence or heavy drinking. The phrase has become a versatile idiom that carries different connotations depending on the context in which it is used.

Present

Continued Usage

Today, 'tie one on' remains a prevalent expression in English-speaking countries. While its origins are firmly rooted in the Prohibition era, the phrase has evolved to encompass various forms of celebration, indulgence, or even recklessness. From enjoying a night out with friends to celebrating a special occasion, 'tie one on' is a versatile phrase that continues to find relevance in contemporary conversation.

Present

The Resurgence and Style Statement

Today, the necktie continues to evolve, adapting to changing fashion trends and personal style preferences. While the strict business dress codes of the past may have relaxed in many industries, the necktie remains a popular choice for formal occasions and as a style statement. It serves as an expression of individuality and can be tied in numerous ways, embracing both tradition and innovation.