Lighten up: spring ties

Nothing lightens up a look like a clever print or woven tie.

Not the garish ones with hula dancers and giant panda bears, Saint Nick or whatnot...

No, I mean those subtle little "critter" ties where the animal looks like an abstract pattern on the field from far away but up close you can see a fauna pattern.

Above is a bird on a fence rail by Hermes (in store in Canada, $210) - a bit of fun without the buffoonery.

But how do you tell the difference between a poorly made spring tie and one well done: check out my latest advice column at The Vancouver Sun with thoughts from Tom Siddall of Harry Rosen and Tina Tsakanikas of Dion Neckwear.