Tie Pins: Miniature Masterpieces with Meaning

Tie pins — also known as stick pins — are tiny jewels with outsized personality. First appearing in the early 19th century to hold cravats in place, they soon became canvases of creativity, status, and sentiment. From Regency dandies to Edwardian gentlemen and today’s Royal Family, they remain one of the most versatile jewels a man (or woman!) can own.

At Parkin & Gerrish, we adore them because they are not only wearable treasures but also little ice-breakers — stories waiting to be told.

Regency & Georgian Elegance — Very Bridgerton

In the early 1800s, the Regency gentleman’s cravat was the ultimate fashion statement. Starched linen, tied into elaborate knots, could make or break a man’s outfit. Dandy-in-chief Beau Brummell even published a manual on cravat tying, advising that a man should spend as much care on his cravat as a lady on her toilette. He described the perfect fold as one “neither too stiff nor too lax,” allowing the gentleman to exude both dignity and ease.

A discreet pin was often used to tame the folds — useful, but also a chance to add a gleam of gold or gemstone. It’s easy to imagine a Bridgerton ballroom, where a flash of a tie pin said as much as a glance across the dance floor.

Victorian Boldness & Gilded Age Splendour

By the Victorian era, tie pins had become essential accessories. They were flamboyant and fun: hearts, knots, insects, and lucky symbols in gold and gem-set designs. In the Gilded Age, society figures went further still — commissioning elaborate stick pins that displayed wealth and wit.

And here’s where tie pins became conversational. A fish-shaped pin might say: my name is Salmon, I love fishing, or I simply adore smoked salmon! A tiny horse’s head might hint at racing passion; a swallow symbolised safe return. Each pin was a subtle calling card of personality.

Edwardian Refinement & Elegance

The Edwardians favoured light, romantic designs — diamonds, pearls, and delicate floral motifs. Etiquette books of the period advised gentlemen on restraint: “One jewel alone should suffice, else elegance dissolves into ostentation.” A carefully chosen tie pin was considered the height of tasteful refinement, particularly for morning dress.

It’s no surprise that the Edwardian era was also the golden age of Ascot — where tie pins shimmered discreetly against silk ties in the royal enclosure.

Art Deco Flair — Jazz Age Modernity

The 1920s and 1930s ushered in heavier tie fabrics, and clips began to rival pins. But the tie pin remained stylish, now with Deco geometry, calibré-cut stones, and enamel. They brought a sparkle of Jazz Age glamour — a miniature cocktail jewel for the lapel or tie.

Tie Pins Today — From Royals to Weddings

Fast forward to the 21st century, and tie pins are still very much alive. King Charles III is often photographed wearing one with his tie — a small but significant nod to tradition and detail. They continue to be seen at Royal Ascot and with morning dress, but they also slot beautifully into contemporary wardrobes.

Unlike cufflinks, which require double-cuff shirts, tie pins can be worn by any man — making them a more accessible jewel. This is why we often recommend them as gifts for grooms or for special milestones: affordable, wearable, and packed with meaning.

How to Wear a Tie Pin (and Have Fun With It)

• Classic vertical: Through the tie, securing to the shirt, in line with the third button.

• Lapel detail: Adds character when no tie is worn.

• Pocket square twist: Pin through a fold for a witty flourish.

• Scarf fastener: Elegant on silk scarves, ascots, or cravats.

• Even on a hat! A bold Victorian stick pin in a trilby or boater makes a statement.

And at Parkin & Gerrish, every tie pin comes with a discreet stopper — so you won’t get pricked while you wear it.

Why We Love Them

• Personality in miniature — from witty fish to symbolic knots, each pin tells a story.

• Historic yet modern — equally at home in a Bridgerton cravat or a King’s Windsor knot.

• Versatile gifts — perfect for grooms, fathers, or anyone who values detail.

• Sustainable style — re-wearing jewels of the past is the ultimate in slow luxury.

Explore Our Collection

From Georgian cravat pins worthy of Beau Brummell, to bold Victorian creatures, Edwardian pearls, and Deco dazzlers, our tie pins are hand-picked for craftsmanship and story. Each comes in our pink & green Parkin & Gerrish box, ready to wear, gift, or collect — with a stopper included, of course.

✨ Tie pins are more than accessories. They’re conversation starters, personality markers, and heirlooms in miniature — as irresistible today as they were two centuries ago.