National Necktie Day

Every year on October 18, people observe National Necktie Day, a fun and stylish tribute to the necktie and its historical roots.

History of National Necktie Day

National Necktie Day is especially tied to Croatia, where it is celebrated as a nod to the origin of the cravat — a precursor to the modern necktie. The “cravat” was worn by Croatian soldiers in the 17th century and eventually influenced European fashion. In 2008, the Croatian Parliament formally recognized the day, giving it greater visibility and structure.

Over the decades, Necktie Day has spread beyond Croatia, becoming an informal fashion observance in various parts of the world.

Why is National Necktie Day important?

At its heart, National Necktie Day celebrates more than just a piece of clothing — it honors a cultural and sartorial symbol that connects us to history, identity, and style. Wearing a necktie can feel like a small act of tradition, a way to bridge past and present in everyday life.

It also invites reflection on how fashion evolves and carries meaning. The necktie has been a marker of profession, formality, rebellion, and personal flair. On this day, we can think about how such symbols shift, what we choose to wear and why, and how a simple knot can carry stories of cultural exchange.

• It honors the Croatian origin of the cravat and its influence
• It spotlights how fashion carries cultural and personal meaning
• It gives people a playful reason to dress up or try styles
• It serves as a reminder of how simple accessories unite history with today
• It encourages creativity in how we wear or reinterpret the tie

How to Observe National Necktie Day

Celebrating National Necktie Day can be as simple or expressive as you like. You might choose to wear your boldest, most colorful, or oldest tie and wear it with pride. It’s a chance to experiment — maybe try a different knot, mix styles, or pair it with unexpected outfits.

You could also host a “tie day” event in your school, office, or friend group: a tie fashion show, a knot-tying lesson, or a swap of ties. For those who have neckties they no longer use, donating them to career-prep programs or charities that help people dress professionally is a meaningful gesture.

• Wear a necktie (or encourage someone else to)
• Try tying a knot you’ve never used before
• Set up a tie swap or fashion showcase
• Teach or learn different tie knots with friends
• Donate unused ties to those entering job interviews

National Necktie Day Dates Table