A tie is a narrow piece of cloth worn around the neck, usually as a part of formal dress attire. Ties are usually made from silk, cotton, or polyester, and come in a wide range of colors, patterns, and styles. They are often worn with a dress shirt and suit as part of formal or business attire and can be used to complement or contrast with the rest of the outfit. Ties are also used as a way to add personality to an outfit, with some individuals choosing bold or unique ties to express their personal style. The wearing of ties dates back several centuries and is considered a symbol of professionalism and sophistication. The knot used to secure the tie around the neck can also vary, with the most common being the four-in-hand knot, the half-Windsor knot, and the full-Windsor knot. There is also a growing trend of wearing bow ties, which are smaller, self-tie ties that are worn around the neck and fastened with a knot. Whether as a part of a formal outfit or as a way to add some personality to a casual outfit, ties remain a versatile and popular accessory.