Ascot vs. Cravat — What's the Difference?
By Tayyaba Rehman & Maham Liaqat — Updated on April 18, 2024
An ascot is a type of cravat that is wide, pointed, and tied in a large knot with wide flaps, commonly associated with formal day wear; a cravat is a broader term for neckwear and includes various styles including the ascot.
Difference Between Ascot and Cravat
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Key Differences
The ascot, named after the Royal Ascot horse race where it was popularized, is a dressy scarf worn primarily during formal daytime events. On the other hand, the term "cravat" originates from Croatian mercenaries in France and refers to almost any cloth tied around the neck.
An ascot is tied in a specific manner, often secured with a pin and tucked inside a shirt, creating a sophisticated, refined look. Whereas, cravats can be worn in many different styles, from a simple tie-over to a more elaborate knot, depending on the occasion and outfit.
Traditionally, ascots are made from silk or a silk blend, giving them a luxurious feel and appearance suitable for upper-class events. Cravats, however, are made from a variety of materials including silk, cotton, polyester, and wool, making them versatile for various social settings.
The ascot is usually reserved for specific formal settings, such as weddings or morning dress events. In contrast, cravats are more adaptable and can be worn in both casual and formal settings, depending on the style and material.
While ascots remain popular in certain high society circles and are often seen in period films and at formal equestrian events, cravats have experienced a broader cultural adoption, often used to add a touch of class or vintage style to modern attire.
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Comparison Chart
Definition
A type of cravat for formal day wear
A necktie representing a range of neckwear styles
Origin
Named after the Royal Ascot race
From Croatian military attire
Material
Typically silk or silk blend
Silk, cotton, polyester, wool
Occasion
Formal day events like weddings
Both formal and informal occasions
Style
Tied in a specific, elaborate knot with flaps
Worn in various styles and knots
Compare with Definitions
Ascot
A formal necktie usually made of silk, worn for specific daytime events.
He wore a grey ascot to complement his morning dress at the wedding.
Cravat
A general term for neckwear that can be styled in various ways.
He chose a loosely tied cravat for the casual garden party.
Ascot
Characterized by its wide, pointed ends.
The silk ascot featured beautifully patterned, wide points that draped elegantly.
Cravat
Originates from military use, now a fashionable accessory.
The cravat, with its historical military roots, added a vintage charm to his outfit.
Ascot
Popular in certain equestrian circles and at specific social events.
At the Royal Ascot race, many gentlemen sport colorful ascots.
Cravat
Suitable for both formal and informal occasions.
For the company dinner, he picked a silk cravat that matched his suit perfectly.
Ascot
Often secured with a decorative pin or tie tack.
His blue ascot was held neatly in place with a small silver pin.
Cravat
Offers versatility in fashion.
Depending on the occasion, he could style his cravat loosely for a relaxed look or tightly for a more formal appearance.
Ascot
Associated with upper-class attire and sophistication.
Wearing an ascot typically signifies a high level of formality and class.
Cravat
Can be made from a variety of materials.
His winter cravat was a thick, woolen cloth that kept him warm.
Ascot
A town in southern England, south-west of Windsor. Its racecourse is the site of an annual race meeting.
Cravat
A scarf or band of fabric worn around the neck as a tie.
Ascot
A broad neck scarf knotted so that its ends lie flat, one upon the other.
Cravat
A wide fabric band worn as a necktie by men having long ends hanging in front.
Ascot
Ellipsis of ascot tie
Cravat
(historical) A decorative fabric band or scarf worn around the neck by women.
Ascot
A cravat with wide square ends, tied so that the ends are laid flat; the ends are often secured with an ornamental pin; - called cravat in Britain.
Cravat
(surgery) A bandage resembling a cravat, particularly a triangular bandage folded into a strip.
Ascot
A cravat with wide square ends; secured with an ornamental pin
Cravat
To adorn with a cravat; to tie a cravat, or something resembling a cravat, around the neck.
Cravat
A neckcloth; a piece of silk, fine muslin, or other cloth, worn by men about the neck.
While his wig was combed and his cravat tied.
Cravat
Neckwear worn in a slipknot with long ends overlapping vertically in front
Common Curiosities
How do you tie an ascot?
An ascot is tied in a large knot with the ends draped over and secured, often with a decorative pin.
What is an ascot?
An ascot is a type of cravat that is usually made from silk and worn in a specific formal style, especially in formal daytime settings.
Are ascots still in fashion?
While not as commonly worn today, ascots remain a staple in certain formal and high society events, particularly in the UK.
What's the best material for a cravat?
The choice of material depends on the occasion; silk is preferred for formal events, while cotton or wool may be better for casual settings.
Is an ascot suitable for evening wear?
Traditionally, ascots are intended for daytime wear; for evening events, a more traditional tie or bow tie is usually preferred.
What is a cravat?
A cravat is a piece of neckwear that can come in various forms and materials, worn for both casual and formal occasions.
Can a cravat be worn casually?
Yes, cravats can be styled in a more relaxed manner, suitable for casual wear.
What occasions are appropriate for wearing an ascot?
Ascots are most appropriate for formal daytime events like weddings or prestigious horse races.
How does a cravat differ from a tie?
A cravat is broader in definition and style, whereas a tie is more narrowly defined and typically worn under a shirt collar.
How versatile is a cravat in men's fashion?
Cravats offer great versatility and can be a distinctive accessory in both contemporary and vintage fashion styles.
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Written by
Tayyaba RehmanTayyaba Rehman is a distinguished writer, currently serving as a primary contributor to askdifference.com. As a researcher in semantics and etymology, Tayyaba's passion for the complexity of languages and their distinctions has found a perfect home on the platform. Tayyaba delves into the intricacies of language, distinguishing between commonly confused words and phrases, thereby providing clarity for readers worldwide.
Co-written by
Maham Liaqat
