Quote Originally Posted by Brian K View Post
I agree that a cravat can be worn with Highland attire, but the more traditional ways of tying or securing it look best. The ruche knot seems to be a modern innovation used mainly by hire shops. I think it looks like you're trying to hard. I also think it looks a bit sloppy. Of course, since it seems mainly used to illustrate items in the hire trade it screams "I just rented this crap!" to me.

In any event, if you like it and have the opportunity to wear it, I say go ahead. I'm more than twice your age and that probably influences my opinion. Of course I've never really liked larger knots - a good old-fashioned four-in-hand is fine by me. I avoid buying any of the various forms of spread collar shirts just so I don't have to use a Windsor or half-Windsor knot. It probably didn't help that my stepfather used to tie his ties with knots the size of tennis balls. I used to try to talk him out of it, but Dad is a stubborn sort and, well... At present he almost never wears a tie and, while I wish he'd wear one to Lodge or to weddings or funerals, frankly, it's an improvement.

Regards,

Brian

Oh don't get me wrong, I don't like the rusche knot and it looks sloppy to me. I too use the four-in-hand knot for regular ties and avoid too-big knots that are trendy these days.
I'm advocating for a good conservative cravat. That's all. :-)