National Necktie Day

History of National Necktie Day

Croatia is known for its majestic waterfalls, scenic islands, football stadiums, and of course, neckties. The ‘cravat’ — a short knotted garment tied around the neck — has been prevalent in Croatia since the 17th century. Considered to be the symbol of professionalism and the final touch to formal wear, the necktie owes its humble beginnings to cravats worn by Croatian soldiers on the battlefield. Red cravats became part of the uniform of Croatian soldiers during the 17th-century war.

The fashion item soon traveled to Western Europe and was embraced by the French. In 1646, seven-year-old Louis XIV of France wore the cravat to the Royal Court. The trend caught the eye of the English, who made their own cuts and transformed the squared cravats into the necktie as we know it. Croatia claims the invention of the necktie and has dedicated the day to its cause. The republic protects its heritage in many ways. In 1997, Academic Cravatica — a nonprofit organization — was founded to promote the original cravat and its relevance in history as the object of adoration and utility.

The cravat joins the MP3 player, the parachute, the zeppelin, and fingerprint identification as the biggest Croatian contributions to the world. This fun and fitting tribute to the necktie is loved and appreciated by all Croatians. Prominent towns are lit up in celebration, as people come together to party in their best neckties. The capital city of Zagreb becomes a tourist attraction, as many events are planned by the locals, including a march featuring the city’s famous Cravat Regiment.

National Necktie Day timeline

1656

Protection

Croatian mercenaries start wearing crossed clothing on their necks as protection during the war.

1660

The Cravat Reaches France

The Croatian regiment fashioning the cravat reaches France and catches the eye of the public.

1815

The Evolution of the Tie

Men's neck knotting fabric becomes a serious apparel accessory and the cravat is reintroduced into the market as a ‘tie.’

1844

The Honor of Croatia

Croatian poet Dživo Šiškov Gundulić’s birthday is designated as Cravat Day or National Tie Day.

National Necktie Day FAQs

When is National Necktie Day?

National Necktie Day 2026 falls on a Sunday, October 18, offering a relaxed weekend opportunity to celebrate this iconic accessory.

What is the origin of the modern necktie?

The modern necktie’s roots trace back to 17th-century Croatian mercenaries whose knotted neck scarves caught the attention of French King Louis XIII. This ‘cravate’ then evolved into the fashionable accessory we know today, becoming a staple in European menswear.

How popular are neckties today?

While casual dress codes have grown, neckties remain a significant element of formal and business attire globally. They are also increasingly embraced as a fashion statement, with diverse styles and patterns reflecting individual expression.

Is National Necktie Day celebrated internationally?

Yes, National Necktie Day has a strong international presence, particularly in Croatia where it originated and is recognized as an official holiday since 2008. Celebrations there often involve wearing ties with great enthusiasm.

National Necktie Day Activities

Hold a luncheon

Since we are celebrating the most elite formal accessory of a man’s attire, a luncheon should certainly be considered. Invite your friends and family for a high-class seven-course luncheon with a formal dress code. And yes, ladies are allowed to come with a necktie too.

Craft your cravat

A necktie is a perfect accessory to experiment with. Bold colors, some beads, and hot glue will be your partners in the process. Just take a necktie and adorn it with the things you like and the style you prefer. Thanks to Croatia, we have the permission to play out our own interpretation of our favorite neck apparel.

Read about Croatian history

Croatia is a land of vibrant culture and interesting people. National Necktie Day is a great excuse to read up all about its mighty history and its past leaders. You can also board a plane straight to the majestic land and experience the scenic glory for yourself.

5 Fun Facts About Neckties

It’s a great gift

Neckties are the most gifted item on Father’s Day.

China’s production

Shengzhou city in China is the biggest manufacturer of neckties in the world.

Swordproof, literally

Seventeenth-century neckties were made with chainmail as a protection for the neck.

One tie, many plays

A necktie can be tied in more than 177,000 ways.

There’s a word for that

Necktie collectors and enthusiasts are called ‘grabatologists.’

Why We Love National Necktie Day

It’s a gentleman’s pride

A necktie has been the symbol of power dressing and professionalism for centuries. So much so that at one point in history, a mere touch of another man's tie was a signal for a duel. Neckties elevate any outfit, making National Necktie Day a fitting tribute to the cause.

It’s more than a tie

The necktie isn’t just another accessory. Historically, the tie has served many purposes, including the protection of the neck. The evolution of the cravat and its fabric has reduced it to a fashion accessory. On National Necktie Day, we honor the multipurpose uses of the tie and celebrate its historic significance.

It honors the history of Croatia

A necktie is now considered a Croatian ingenuity. From the music we love to the delicacies we can't get enough of, the nation has given us a lot. National Necktie Day honors the contributions of this beautiful country.