FROM PAST TO PRESENT
The origin of the tie dates back to the 17th century, when Croatian soldiers would wear elegant scarves around their necks to make their uniforms more practical. This custom inspired the French to create the “cravate,” a symbol of nobility and social status.
Over time, the tie went through various transformations, evolving from simple neckerchiefs into finely crafted sartorial details. By the 19th century, it had taken on a more modern shape and became a defining element of men’s fashion. Among the many variations, the plain tie emerged as an elegant and versatile choice—perfect for businessmen, artists, and modern gentlemen alike.
THE FINEST FABRICS AND THERIR WAVES
Behind every high-quality plain tie lies a world of sophisticated weaving techniques and carefully selected materials. Among them, silk and wool weaves play a central role in making each piece truly unique.
SILK
Silk is the ultimate symbol of elegance. Its history dates back thousands of years, when it was woven in China to produce precious fabrics reserved for the elite. Plain ties made of silk can feature a variety of weaves, each offering a unique look and texture.
Panama Weave Ties: The Panama weave gives silk a subtly interlaced texture with a soft yet durable feel. This style is ideal for ties that blend refinement with a modern edge, making them perfect for both casual and formal looks.
Repp Weave Ties: Characterized by its horizontal or diagonal ribbed surface, the repp weave lends the tie a structured, bold appearance. Repp ties are perfect for those who seek an accessory with strong personality and timeless elegance, adding a dynamic touch to any outfit.
Grenadine Weave Ties: Grenadine is a lightly open-weave fabric with a distinctive texture that adds depth to plain ties. Perfect for those who appreciate a balance of simplicity and character, grenadine ties are designed to impress without being overbearing. Fumagalli’s artisanal craftsmanship turns each grenadine tie into an exclusive piece.
Oxford Weave Ties: the Oxford weave is a weaving technique that creates a subtly textured fabric with a slightly grainy appearance and a soft yet durable feel. This weave is achieved by crossing two weft threads over and under a single warp thread, producing a subtle checkerboard or grid-like pattern.
Praised for its versatility, the Oxford weave strikes a perfect balance between elegance and practicality. Its slightly matte surface and its blend of softness and strength make it suitable for both formal and casual fabrics. When used for ties, it offers a refined yet relaxed look—ideal for those who seek a balance between style and comfort.
Shantung Weave Ties: Shantung is a type of silk known for its rough, irregular texture that gives each piece a unique charm. Its natural imperfections—such as small slubs and variations in the weave—make every tie crafted from this fabric truly one of a kind.
Ideal for a casual-chic style, Shantung is loved by those who appreciate visible craftsmanship and the character that comes through in every detail. It’s a fabric that embraces individuality, making each tie a statement of personal style.
WOOL
Wool is a warm and versatile fabric that has been used for centuries to create accessories suited for colder seasons. Plain wool ties embody a subtle elegance, with weaves that offer soft, compact textures and a refined yet relaxed appeal.
Melange Weave Ties: Melange ties feature blended shades that create a dynamic, vibrant effect. This technique interweaves yarns of different tones to produce a multifaceted look that shifts beautifully with the light, adding depth and personality to the tie.
Smooth Weave Ties: characterized by a uniform and compact texture, smooth wool ties offer a soft and comfortable touch. They’re perfect for elegant yet laid-back outfits, making them ideal for the office or a winter evening out.
FUMAGALLI AND THE HISTORICAL ARCHIVE
The historical archive of Fumagalli 1891 is a true treasure trove for fashion and tradition enthusiasts. It preserves drawings, fabric samples, and patterns that reflect over a century of artisanal excellence. This heritage not only honors the richness of the past, but also inspires contemporary collections, creating a bridge between tradition and innovation.
Plain ties are far more than a simple accessory — they are a tribute to tradition and a statement of sophisticated style. Whether crafted from lustrous silk, warm wool, or rugged shantung, each tie tells a story of craftsmanship and passion.
Fumagalli 1891 proudly carries on its legacy of excellence, blending time-honored techniques with forward-looking design. Wearing a plain tie is not just about elegance—it’s a gesture that celebrates the timeless beauty of Italian craftsmanship. Every knot is a tribute to over a century of history and innovation.
