Notes on Neckwear

* Nearly 95 million ties are sold in the United States each year. The average man purchases or receives as a gift two ties a year.

* A typical necktie should last two years, says Superba president and chief executive Mervyn Mandelbaum. “Once a pattern is duplicated in polyester and reaches the mass-market level, it’s basically out of style,” he says.

* Neckwear manufacturers say key trends for 1993 include traditional stripes, Art Deco and abstract patterns, three-dimensional looks and cartoon prints.

* Most neckties today range in width from 3 1/2 to 4 inches, with the wider silhouette being the most fashionable.

* Most neckties use one of three distinct fabric weaves: plain, twill and satin. A plain weave is reminiscent of a basket and is often found in ties priced less than $20. Twill weaves feature subtle diagonal lines and fall into the $20 to $30 price range. Satin weaves, typically used in neckwear priced more than $45, have a smooth surface and usually feature subtle patterns over patterns.

* To judge quality, note whether the lining ends abruptly, as is typical in lower-priced ties, or extends to the tip.

* Worn properly, a necktie should have a dimple at the knot and fall to the center of the belt buckle.