Ties Planet now on eBay

Ties Planet are in the process of building a presence on eBay.

We have initially listed 10 different items with an initial bid of just 1p required and free postage & packaging. This will enable us to open an eBay shop in the near future so look out for more bargains from us on eBay soon.

Queen Victoria Preferred Black Ties to White

Queen Victoria's dispute with an artist over whether to paint her son wearing a black tie or white tie can finally be judged by the public.

The miniature portrait at the centre of the dispute is going on display for the first time from 16 March to 4 November at The Queen's Gallery, Hollyroodhouse. Prince Alfred, Duke of Edinburgh, is painted by acclaimed Scottish artist Kenneth Macleay. The original was praised when exhibited in Edinburgh but Queen Victoria requested a miniature of Alfred based on the watercolour portrait, but asked for alterations. In particular a black tie was to replace the white tie in the original. After painting a black tie, Macleay decided it looked better white and changed it back.

In a letter to Queen Victoria dated August 4 1864 he stated 'The Queen will observe that I have done the miniature in a black handkerchief at her majesty's command, but on again seeing the large picture (as it was painted in a white tie by the Queen's desire at first, and all the arrangements in accordance and with reference to the white,) that it would quite spoil it to put it in a black handkerchief - in which opinion the president and all the members of the Royal Scottish Academy who have seen it, entirely concur, I have left it white.'

In a reply written in pencil on the reverse of the artist's note, Queen Victoria noted 'The Queen does not like this miniature as well as the original and she wishes Mr Macleay to alter it by and large.'

The monarch had her wish and the final image shows her son with a black tie. The miniature will be part of the Diamond Jubilee exhibition - Treasures from the Queen's Palaces.

Tie of the Day

Our latest 'Tie of the Day' offering is this Pink & Light Blue Square Patterned Silk Tie. Certainly not one for shrinking violets, this tie will make sure you are remembered at that vital meeting or event.

Expect another 'Tie of the Day' from Ties Planet soon!

Bow Tie Fever

This Gizmodo article provides a very entertaining look at the bow tie and some very famous bow tie wearers are mentioned.

There is no doubt that bow ties are becoming a talking point. At TiesPlanet.com there are already 115 bow ties to choose from and expect this number to increase as the trend gathers momentum.

Stella McCartney Hosts Black Tie Event

Last night Sir Paul's daughter hosted an event to mark the 2012 London Olympics. Guests included Rihanna and Kate Moss, giving plenty of reason to dress up!

Look Your Best on St Patrick's Day

St Patrick's Day is just 4 weeks on Saturday.

If you want to get into the Irish spirit on 17th March, an Ireland Flag Novelty Tie will go a long way to showing you have made an effort. Just don't spill your Guinness down it!

Are You Looking to Tie the Knot?

Valentine's Day is now behind us but that always leads to a flurry of proposals and couples around the world will now be in wedding planning mode.

Of course, if you are female and your loved one didn't pop the question then your big chance will come on 29th February. In case you needed reminding, 2012 is a leap year!

At TiesPlanet.com we have a dedicated Wedding Zone, which is bound to have all the neckwear the groom and male guests need for the big day. There are also some highly appropriate cufflinks.

The image shown is courtesy of Leeds-based Gently Bentley, who specialise in providing luxury travel for special occasions.

Are You a Twitterer?

Could you give two hoots about twitter? If so why not follow @tiesplanet and you will be the first to hear about great offers and competitions.

Love is in the Air

Just a quick reminder that Valentines Day is tomorrow. Don't forget!!!

These Simon Carter Crystal Heart Cufflinks are a gift which he will always remember.

Six Nations Continues

This weekend saw the second round of Six Nations matches. Well almost... England edged a win in Italy and Wales saw off a mini fightback from Scotland but the game between France and Wales was postponed due to the weather.

At least that will allow more opportunity for fans to wear one of these Silk Rugby Novelty Ties, available at TiesPlanet.com.

Tie of the Day

With much of Europe gripped by freezing temperatures, snow and ice we have gone for this Plain Sunshine Yellow Tie as our latest 'Tie of the Day'.

Beckham Sports Skinny Tie for Afterparty

If ever more proof was needed that skinny ties are well and truly in fashion, David Beckham was proudly wearing one for the afterparty following the launch of his H&M Bodywear Collection.