There is a margin of frivolity when dealing with bow ties. When done correctly the traditionally formal pieces can redefine the level of casual dressing sanctioned in streetwear. Battles in the bowtie arena have been undoubtedly won by Andre 3000 and rejuvenator of iconic couture house Lanvin, Alber Elbaz.

Andre 3000 is known especially for his quirky use of plaids, driver caps and an occasional kilt or two and his Prince meets the country club stealth in applying paisley bowties is unrivaled.

On the other hand, Alber Elbaz has turned his neckwear into a fully blossomed iconic look. After every successful collection, his cartoony, satin ties play peek-a-boo. Coincidently the rest of the industry is following the smell. Most prominently being Armani Prive’s fall couture collection where models followed in Elbaz’s steps with animated bowties to compliment the one-of-a-kind tailoring of les smokings.

I’ll be getting my bowtie soon. It’s a much better trend to follow than the pointlessness of Shutter Shades.