What is the Difference Between Ascot and Cravat

Ascot and cravat are two neckwear options that suit formal occasions. In fact, they are two of the oldest forms of men’s neckwear that are still in fashion today. But do you know the difference between ascot and cravat?

The key difference between ascot and cravat is their terminology. An ascot is a formal neckband for men with wide, pointed ends that drape down the front. Meanwhile, cravat is a broader term for neckwear and can refer to neckties, bow ties, neckerchiefs, and ascots.

CONTENTS

1. Overview and Key Difference
2. What is an Ascot 
3. What is a Cravat
4. Similarities – Ascot and Cravat
5. Ascot vs Cravat in Tabular Form
6. Summary – Ascot and Cravat
7. FAQ – Ascot and Cravat

What is an Ascot?

An ascot is a wide neckband with pointed ends, similar to a small scarf. It consists of two wide, pointed fabric pieces (often called “wings”) connected by a narrower band. The band sits comfortably around the neck while the wings drape down the front.  These wings are often the most decorative part of the ascot. Ascots are traditionally made from silk, usually in light-colored patterns. They are secured with a tie pin or clip at the neck.

Ascots are generally considered formal wear. They are most commonly seen with morning dress, which is a type of formal attire for daytime events like weddings. Groomsmen sometimes wear ascots. However, ascot use has mostly declined in recent times.

It’s also interesting to note that there’s a difference in the US between the name “ascot” and the actual ascot. In America, “ascot” can refer to both the true ascot (formal, worn outside the shirt) and a neckerchief (informal, tied and tucked into the shirt).

What is a Cravat?

The term “cravat” has two distinct meanings depending on location. In British English, it refers to an ascot. However, American English uses “cravat” more broadly. It can include historical, lace-like cravats (which were a forerunner of the necktie), neckerchiefs (loose scarfs), bow ties, and true ascots. Basically, any neckwear with an old-fashioned style could be called a cravat. However, using the specific term (ascot, neckerchief, necktie, etc.) avoids confusion in everyday conversation.

The word “cravat” is derived from “Cravate,” a regiment of Croatian mercenaries who served King Louis XIV of France in the 17th century. These soldiers wore distinctive neck scarves, and the French later adopted the fashion. Initially, these early cravats were simple scarves made of cotton or linen for lower ranks and finer fabrics like silk and lace for officers. By the 18th century, the cravat had transformed into an elaborate and starched neckcloth, becoming a key element of a gentleman’s wardrobe. The late 19th and early 20th centuries saw a shift towards a more practical and streamlined approach to menswear. The cravat gradually evolved into the modern necktie, becoming narrower and easier to manage.

Similarities Between Ascot and Cravat

• Both ascots and cravats are decorative garments worn around the neck.
• Traditionally, both are associated with formal attire for men.
• The terms “ascot” and “cravat” are often used interchangeably.

Difference Between Ascot and Cravat

Definition

1. An ascot is a formal neckband for men with wide, pointed ends that drape down the front.
2. Cravat is a broader term for neckwear and can refer to neckties, bow ties, neckerchiefs, and ascots.

British English

1. In British English, an ascot is a formal neckband.
2. Here, cravat is often used as a synonym for ascot.

American English

1. In America, “ascot” can refer to both the true ascot (formal, worn outside the shirt) and a neckerchief (informal, tied and tucked into the shirt).
2. In the US, “cravat” can be a broader term, including different types of neckwear.

Origin and History

1. The cravat originated in Croatia during the 17th century and gained popularity in France in the 18th century.
2. The ascot tie originated in England during the late 19th century and is named after the Ascot Racecourse, where it gained popularity as a formal neckwear option.

Below is a summary of the difference between ascot and cravat in tabular form for side by side comparison.

Summary – Ascot vs Cravat

The difference between ascot and cravat can be subtle, especially depending on location. In British English, “cravat” is synonymous with an ascot – the formal neckwear with wide, pointed ends. However, American English uses “cravat” more broadly. Here, it can refer to neckties, bow ties, neckerchiefs, and ascots.

FAQ: Ascot and Cravat

1. What is the difference between a scarf and a cravat?

• A scarf is a long, rectangular piece of fabric people wear for warmth or decoration. It is often wrapped loosely around the neck. A cravat (especially in American English) can be a type of scarf, but it can also refer to more specific neckwear like an ascot (wide, pointed ends) or a historical, elaborate lace neckband.

2. Why is it called an ascot?

• The ascot gets its name from the town of Ascot, England. This town is famous for its racecourse, Ascot Racecourse, which has a long history and a strict dress code requiring formal attire for attendees. In the early days of the racecourse, men wore a type of formal cravat as part of their attire. This specific style of cravat, with its wide and pointed ends, eventually became known as the “ascot.”

3. What is the difference between an ascot and a neckerchief?

• Ascots are the dressier option, strictly formal with wide, pointed ends secured by a pin. Neckerchiefs, on the other hand, are more versatile. They are made from various fabrics and tied in knots. They can be dressed up for a semi-formal event or add a casual touch to everyday wear.

4. Is a cravat the same as an ascot?

• In British English, a cravat is the same as an ascot – the formal neckwear with wide, pointed ends. But in American English, “cravat” has a broader meaning. It can refer to the historical, elaborate cravat (think lace), a looser scarf (neckerchief), and sometimes even the ascot itself.

Reference:

1. “What Is A Cravat? Definition, History & How To Tie.” Bespoke Unit.
2. “How To Wear Ascots and Cravats?” Gentleman’s Gazette.

Image Courtesy:

1. “Ascot” By David Ring – Drawing made by David Ring, commissioned by Europeana Fashion, scanned by team of MoMu – Fashion Museum Province of Antwerp (CC0) via Commons Wikimedia
2. “Bicycle ascot” By Sarah Mirk – (CC BY 2.0) via Commons Wikimedia

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