Top 5 Tie Picks
A Buyer's Perspective: Top 5 Tie Collections
Thank you for your continued support of Kamakura Shirts. This is Kawada, responsible for tie buying.
At Kamakura Shirts, we offer a diverse selection of ties, each with its own unique charm. We believe that a tie is more than just an accessory—it’s an essential item that enhances one’s sophistication. That’s why we are meticulous about every detail, from materials and design to craftsmanship. In this article, I will introduce some of the ties we carry, highlighting the themes and characteristics of each supplier, along with my personal impressions.
Shinnosuke Kawada
Men’s Planning & Buyer
Born in 1997. Inspired by Kamakura Shirts' efforts to spread Japanese craftsmanship abroad during his studies in the United States, he joined the company. After working at the Ginza store and MEN’S Shinjuku store, he took on his current role in 2023. A longtime clothing enthusiast, he applies the knowledge and experience he has gained over the years to his work in product development.
ENGLISH ARCHIVES
ENGLISH ARCHIVES is a special collection created by Kamakura Shirts, based on the archives of a British tie brand that was all the rage in the 1980s and 1990s. This collection has been uniquely reinterpreted by Kamakura Shirts.
For a British Suit Style
The charm of ENGLISH ARCHIVES lies in the modern atmosphere created by the blend of British and Italian influences.
What I personally love about this collection is how it combines classic designs with playful color schemes and patterns. Fabrics like birdseye and sharkskin, which are classic yet with a twist, make me want to pair them with similarly styled suits.
When you keep the suit in calm tones like navy or gray, the design of the tie really stands out.
SHIRTS : PPSS50_23
TIE : GMOS132AAO
BREUER
The tie collection that represents Kamakura Shirts, "BREUER". This collection is inspired by the beautiful streetscapes of Nice, France, which is a sister city of Kamakura..
Modern French Trad
Compared to other styles, French trad offers a high degree of coordination freedom. That’s why it’s tempting to try fresh and unexpected combinations.
A white-based marine style, featuring a plain white BD shirt paired with a reverse tie with white accents, is a signature look of BREUER. For a casual twist, you can opt for denim bottoms instead.
Finish the look with loafers to maintain elegance while keeping the overall balance refined, creating a sophisticated and polished impression.
SHIRTS : PMOS76_10
TIE : GKOA021AAR Sold Out
ITALIAN COLLECTION
The fabrics used in this collection are meticulously woven in Como, Italy, a world-renowned region for silk production, ensuring the highest quality. They are distinguished by their vibrant colors and delicate tonal expressions, showcasing the beautiful hues and sheen unique to Italian craftsmanship.
Enjoyng Classic Italian Style
My personal favorite right now is the Italian Collection. The color combinations and pattern designs are simply outstanding—so captivating that they make you fall in love at first sight.
Compared to other suppliers, the patterns in this collection are slightly larger in scale. That’s why I recommend pairing them with fashion-forward shirts, such as wide-striped or bold checkered designs—styles you might not typically choose. It’s a great way to create a fresh and stylish look.
Of course, we also offer Italian Basics, which blend seamlessly with simpler outfits, making them a perfect match for your everyday wardrobe.
SHIRTS : YPKP19_23
TIE : GCOS061AAR
ASCOT
ASCOT is recognized as the first brand in the world to create knit ties, earning high praise from top fashion houses for its exceptional quality.
So, what makes ASCOT's knit ties so special? The secret lies in the meticulous craftsmanship—each tie is carefully knitted using vintage knitting machines. One of their standout features is the tightly woven, durable texture. When you hold one in your hands, you can immediately feel its thickness and distinctive three-dimensional texture.
The Resonance of Silk: ASCOT’s Aesthetic
ASCOT’s appeal goes beyond its visual beauty. Its exceptional ease of tying and the way it adds just the right amount of volume at the neckline are key characteristics.
For patterned jackets or playful bottoms, pairing them with a simple, solid knit tie helps balance the overall look, creating a refined and effortlessly eye-catching ensemble.
If you haven’t tried one yet, we highly recommend experiencing it in person. We also offer the Kamakura Navy, an original color exclusive to Kamakura Shirts!
SHIRTS : PNQS24_25
TIE : ASOS011BMS
YAMANASHI FABRIC
The creator of YAMANASHI FABRIC is Kawaei Co., Ltd., a long-established textile manufacturer based in Nishikatsura, Yamanashi Prefecture. With over 100 years of history, the company began as a silk farming business and has since built a prestigious reputation.
One of its defining features is its uniquely developed melange yarn, which creates a distinctive texture and rich depth of color. The fabric subtly reflects light from different angles, offering a dynamic and ever-changing appearance.
Expressing Natural Hues Through Ties
This collection is especially recommended for those who appreciate a classic suit style.
A simple combination—such as a solid gray suit paired with a plain white wide-spread collar shirt—works best to highlight the unique melange texture of YAMANASHI FABRIC. Thanks to the unwavering pursuit of quality and passion of its creators, as well as their dedication to meeting Kamakura Shirts’ requests, we are able to confidently present new designs each season.
SHIRTS : KSJ01310 Sold Out
TIE : SKOS053AAR