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Author: Emme Oliver

  • The Birth of The Clip-On Tie

    The Birth of The Clip-On Tie

    The Clip-On Tie Presented

    This week marks the anniversary of the invention of the clip-on tie. Invented on December 13th, 1928 by an unknown inventor, the clip-on tie was then further developed by Eastern Creatives Industries INC into the product that we know today. 

    The clip-on tie serves as a convenient option for those who find difficulty in properly adjusting a traditional tie. While learning how to tie a tie is a rite of passage for some, the clip-on tie exists for those who aim for a dapper look while barely lifting a finger. 

    The clip-on tie is simply a tie that is permanently knotted with a metal clasp on the back that clips onto dress shirts and other clothing. While viewed as cheap and tacky to some, the clip-on tie can be a last-minute lifesaver when traveling to a business meeting, job interview or other events that require you to look sharp. 

    The origins of the clip-on tie can be traced back to Iowa in 1928. However, the person behind the classic invention is still unknown to this day. Eastern Creative Industries INC expanded on this idea in the 1970s, developing an easier clasp that is widely recognizable by the public today. 

    Besides the aforementioned tackiness, some people complain about the clip-on ties removal process which has been said is much harder than putting it on. Many who’ve owned clip-on ties say that removing them often breaks that clasp and even gets stuck to their clothing.

    Others say that in more hands-on work settings, the clip-on tie is easier to fall off thus revealing the wearer’s less renowned choice in attire. Still, the clip-on tie gave many opportunities to those who refrained from wearing a regular necktie because of the complicated knotting process. The clip-on tie gave a chance to those who no longer wished to avoid wearing ties altogether. 

    The clip-on tie comes in all varieties of lengths and styles just as regular ties do. From patterned to solid color, clip-on ties never falter in providing style for their wearers. Most of the time, people can’t even tell the difference from a regularly tied necktie. 

    Since the 1920’s when it was first conceptualized, the necktie both clip-on and regular has seen a decrease in modern work settings with many choosing to work from home in today’s socio-economic climate, and due to the pandemic. The clip-on tie’s popularity has also decreased since it’s major use in the 70s and 80s. 

    Still, the clip-on tie has had a major impact on fashion, primarily men’s fashion and is still used by workers in office spaces and other business settings today. The clip-on tie may have a diluted history and questions on why it needs to exist, but no doubt it has helped people around the world feel fashionable with ease. 

  • Bandleader Glenn Miller Disappeared On December 15, 1944

    Bandleader Glenn Miller Disappeared On December 15, 1944

    Bandleader Glenn Miller Disappeared Over The English Channel

    American Army bandleader Glenn Miller (March 1, 1904 – December 15, 1944) was known not only for his conducting skills but also for a peculiar disappearance around Christmas Time.

    The 40-year-old was on a flight on December 15th, 1944, from England to France. He never arrived and instead is speculated to have crashed somewhere over the English Channel due to inclement weather. Initially, Miller was supposed to fly to France on an authorized Army aircraft but instead flew with a friend of his on a small plane. Army officials did not realize this until it was too late and are often blamed for Miller’s disappearance. 

    A missing-aircrew report was filed on December 16th but the news didn’t break until Christmas Eve that America’s beloved bandleader who’s show tunes entered the hearts of audiences throughout the war, was missing. 

    The news shocked many but gave little time for reaction since the Battle of The Bulge on Christmas Eve in Belgium and France. 

    Miller’s band members knew something had happened to their leader when he didn’t show up in Paris to conduct. His band members, labeled the best of their time, were devastated and furious with those who hadn’t kept track of his flight activity. 

    Also on the plane was Lieutenant Colonel Francis Norman Baessell, as well as the pilot, John R.S. Morgan. As mentioned, Miller wasn’t authorized initially to travel on that plane but wanted a quicker trip to Paris. Miller’s whereabouts are still unknown as his body, as well as the bodies of the accompanying passengers, were never found. He would be 117 today. 

    Still, Miller’s story is known as one of the great American mysteries. Many still honor his legacy around the holidays by playing his classic tunes including In The Mood, Moonlight Serenade, A String of Pearls, and many more. 

    His disappearance is associated with those the deaths of Buddy Holly, John Lennon, and later Michael Jackson. Miller is gone but not forgotten. His music comforted and brought hope to many during the war and still serves as a jazz classic today, soothing audiences around the world.

    Take our 1944 Quiz!