A new poll has revealed that 41% of Gen Z now wear ties as fashion statements rather than for formal events. Meanwhile, more than a third of Brits (36%) admit they've worn a tie on a night out, to the pub, or to dinner.
Celebrities driving the trend
Inspired by A-listers like Harry Styles, Zendaya, and Hailey Bieber, teens and 20-somethings are ditching the traditional corporate look and pairing ties with miniskirts, baggy jeans, and trainers.
Harry Styles has been instrumental in making the statement tie cool again, frequently pairing them with bold colours and wide lapels for a 1970s aesthetic. Having worn statement ties at major events such as the Brit Awards, he has significantly influenced fan fashion. For his summer 2026 concert dates, ties became a staple of the "Harry's House" vibe, with fans incorporating ties into their gig outfits as belts, tops, or worn traditionally with collared shirts.
Zendaya and Hailey Bieber's style
Zendaya and her longtime stylist Law Roach have been championing androgynous style for a while, but she took it to a new level in early 2026. During a Parisian press tour for The Drama in March 2026, Zendaya ditched traditional red-carpet gowns in favour of a bridal-white, sheer button-down shirt layered beneath a sleek, hip-grazing necktie. What's more, she walked the "Superfine: Tailoring Black Style" carpet at the 2025 Met Gala in a similar striking white necktie and Louis Vuitton suit.
Makeup mogul Hailey Bieber has also embraced the tie since launching Rhode Skin. She famously went viral for stepping out in a double-breasted Saint Laurent suit paired with a burgundy tie. Plus, back in 2024, she wore the masculine accessory during a star-studded dinner party with Kendall Jenner and Bella Hadid.
Aldi's limited-edition tie range
Thankfully, you don't need an A-list budget to rock the style. Now, budget supermarket Aldi is promoting the trend by launching a limited-edition line of ties – including baked beans and butter patterns.
The "Special Ties" range includes designs inspired by some of the store's most popular everyday items, meaning shoppers can now step out wearing a necktie dedicated to Nordpak butter, Professor Peppy, or Bramwells Baked Beans. Shoppers wanting to win the range of Special Ties need to email SpecialTies@aldi.co.uk with their full name before 11:59pm on 27 August 2026.
Julie Ashfield, Chief Commercial Officer at Aldi UK, said: "The tie has had quite the glow-up, going from an office essential to must-have accessory. We couldn't resist putting our own Aldi spin on the trend by transforming some of our most iconic products into wearable fashion. Our Special Ties celebrate the return of a classic accessory and show that style inspiration can come from anywhere, even the supermarket aisles."
