Recycled ties see new life

by Rachel Pugh
Weekender General Manager
Times Leader Director of Community Relations

Narwhal Co. of San Diego, Calif., started out as a way out. With its owner tired of the same old daily grind and boring work routine, the entrepreneur saw freedom within neckties. Perhaps it was the eight hours of looking at them daily within the work place. Perhaps it was an experiment gone right. With a sewing machine, some patience, and the passion to make it work, Narwhal Co. was born.

“Narwhal Co. was founded because I wanted to be a small business owner, produce a unique and green product that people would want to own and provide quality employment for people who might not have it otherwise,” the owner said on its Web site. “Ultimately, Narwhal Co. is designed to be a catalyst for funding domestic and international humanitarian projects.”

It worked. With 12 retailers now carrying Narwhal products throughout the U.S., what started as a hot seller at an artist market has now turned into a novel accessory, both fashionable and functional. Narwhal Co., makes wallets, passport covers and wrist wear out of recycled ties. All different in design and fabric, the accessories are unusual and stylish.

Depending upon tastes, one can choose a retro look or go for a more conservative choice, just as would occur when choosing a necktie. And if minimal is in mind and there are no plans of carrying a lot around in the wallet, there are several wallet size choices such as the Tie Fold Wallet (the biggest of the bunch), the Wheeler Dealer wallet (one that carries much less) or the Sattley Slim (the slimmest version, which is designed to carry in a front pocket).

For all the hipsters out there, the wrist cuff made from a tie is a fresh alternative to the previously hip wrist bands originally made for athletes. With mother-of-pearl buttons to snap them closed, these items are resourceful while looking like hot, new fashionable accessories.

These reincarnated neckties are itching to make their statement and will change the groan, “Do I have to wear a tie?” These ties turn an archaic obligation into a more desirable choice for fashion.

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