Tied Up for Father’s Day

Let’s be honest—did you buy your dad a tie (again) for Father’s Day?

Once a go-to symbol of professionalism, the necktie is now more about tradition than utility. With Australia’s evolving work culture and increasingly relaxed dress codes, fewer dads than ever are reaching for one in the morning. So before you wrap up that patterned silk accessory, let’s ask the real question: is the tie officially outdated?

The Decline of the Tie in Modern Workplaces

In 2025, business casual is no longer the exception—it’s the norm. Thanks to the rise of remote work, digital-first industries, and a focus on performance over appearance, the tie has largely disappeared from the average office. Even in law, finance and government—industries once anchored in formality—dress codes have loosened.

And for good reason: there’s little evidence that wearing a tie enhances performance. If anything, comfort is increasingly linked to workplace wellbeing and productivity. Why wear something around your neck that serves no functional purpose—especially in Australia’s warm climate?

So, What’s the Point of a Tie?

Think about it. A belt holds up your pants. A hat protects you from the sun. Even socks have multiple benefits (more on that later). But a tie? It’s essentially a decorative strip of fabric dangling from your neck—doing its best impression of a bib without offering the absorbency.

If we were ever visited by aliens, how would we explain the tie? “Oh, this? It’s… ceremonial neck decor. For spreadsheets.”

Risk Factor: Ties and Practical Safety

From a safety perspective, ties aren’t exactly risk-free either. In certain environments, like warehouses, workshops, or even offices with high-powered equipment, loose accessories can pose hazards. Sure, the risk of getting sucked into a paper shredder is low—but it’s enough to make you think twice about looping fabric around your windpipe five days a week.

There’s also the literal discomfort: tight collars can cause heat stress, restrict blood flow, and frankly, just feel suffocating during long workdays. No wonder so many professionals are choosing open collars or ditching the button-up altogether.

Socks: The Underrated Gift That Actually Works

If you’re looking for a practical and thoughtful Father’s Day gift, allow us to make the case for socks. Warm, functional, stylish, and useful every single day, socks are the unsung heroes of any wardrobe. They help prevent blisters, absorb moisture, reduce odour and—bonus—they don’t pose a strangulation risk.

Want to get creative? Gift socks with a story: native Australian wildlife prints, custom colours representing his favourite footy team, or quality merino pairs that keep feet cool in summer and warm in winter.

Rethinking Father’s Day: Gift Ideas That Reflect Today’s Dads

Instead of defaulting to another necktie, consider what suits your dad’s real lifestyle:

• For the DIY dad: Quality workwear or tool vouchers
• For the desk dad: Ergonomic home office accessories
• For the active dad: Performance socks, fitness gear, or massage vouchers
• For the learning dad: A short online course to fuel his next passion project

Whatever his vibe—practical, quirky, or sentimental—he deserves something useful, enjoyable, and reflective of who he is in 2025.

Bottom Line: Ditch the Tie, Elevate the Gift

So this Father’s Day, consider skipping the decorative neck fabric and go for something with a bit more purpose. Whether it’s a practical pair of socks or a gift that supports his personal interests, there are better ways to say “thanks, Dad.”

Because nothing says love like dry feet and full mobility.