Let us answer the question as asked. Look at ABOK pg 383 and 384, as well as several back issues of Knotting Matters and Knot News. I will try to post the back issue numbers of KN and KM as I do not have them at hand but remember several fine articles that expanded ABOK neck ties. Not to say that I am expert: I've not worn a formal tie in 30 years... but still it is an enchanting study. When I had to wear one I made my own ties from silk and other fine cloth, hand stitched, but I often wondered how it came to be the standard instead of an exception. I understand the desire for a loose cloth about your neck. Catches the sweat, can be worn as a dust mask, can mop your brow.. haven't been without one in 30 years... but how the fashion of the neck tie came from the comfort of the neckerchief... I yield to others for that response.