Object Lesson: Hail the ‘Chief

While we think ascots are super cool, it's totally understandable that a guy might feel slightly self-conscious wearing one. But with the arrival of Beard & Bangs very fab French-feeling neckerchiefs, guys can get a bit creative without feeling self-conscious. These little twists of pattern and color at the neck are the coolest dernier cri of neckwear right now, thanks to B&B co-founders Doris Ho and Mark Kane. Go ahead, ditch the tie (or the full-on scarf) and tie one on: We're all for the Tyrant's Foe print in a classic burnt sienna or the Fern & Millet print in a soft, misty grey (each $75). Don't say you can't pull it off: Every style icon-in-the-making has to start somewhere. —Christene Barberich & Piera Gelardi

Beard & Bangs is available in New York at Steven Alan, 103 Franklin Street, 212-343-0352 and Stuart & Wright, 85 Lafayette Street, Brooklyn, 718-797-0011. For more information, go to www.beardbangs.com

Neck candy gets sweeter at Beard & Bangs