Ascots in Pop Culture and Film: The Celebrities Who Made Them Iconic

Who said a man can’t have a little flair around his neck?
Long before modern menswear embraced expressive details, ascot ties were already making a statement. Often misunderstood, the silk ascot has always been the quiet rebel among men’s accessories—refined, slightly cheeky, and unmistakably elegant.

So, what is an ascot, really? A men’s ascot—sometimes referred to as an ascot tie—is a silk neckwear piece worn inside an open-collar shirt, offering a relaxed yet intentional alternative to a traditional tie. For those wondering what is an ascot tie, think of it as the meeting point between classic tailoring and personal expression.

Selection of Serà Fine Silk silk ascots with geometric and medallion patterns, handcrafted in Italy from Como silk.

From Hollywood icons to pop-culture legends, ascots for men have appeared on screen as symbols of confidence, creativity, and nonchalant elegance. Whether styled with sharp tailoring or relaxed summer suiting, the mens ascot has consistently signaled a man unafraid to stand out—quietly.

At Serà Fine Silk, every handmade Como silk ascot is crafted in Italy with that signature mix of class and confidence. Think less stiff collar, more effortless charm.

Famous Characters and Celebrities Who Wore Ascots

Fred Jones from Scooby-Doo

Before TikTok trends and #menswear hashtags, there was Fred Jones — rocking an an orange silk ascot long before it was cool. His look was equal parts prep and mystery-solver chic. Call it cartoon couture.

🟠 Imitate the look: channel your inner Fred with orange silk ascot — handmade in Como and perfect for adding a playful twist to smart-casual outfits.

🎯 Style tip: pair it with navy silk suspenders for a cool retro contrast that keeps the look balanced and fun.

Orange with Small Flowers Pattern Silk Ascot Serà Fine SilkNavy Blue Silk Suspenders Button Only Serà Fine Silk

Clark Gable in Gone with the Wind

Then came Clark Gable — aka Rhett Butler — the man who practically whispered, “Frankly, my dear, I look incredible in a burgundy silk ascot.” That deep red Como silk ascot paired with his tailored suits turned old Hollywood into an eternal mood board for style.

🍷 Imitate the look: make Rhett proud with a burgundy silk ascot — rich, elegant, and perfect under a crisp white shirt or dinner jacket.

🎯 Style tip: add a touch of old-school charm with burgundy silk suspenders — a perfect pairing for formal evenings or vintage-inspired looks.

Burgundy Silk Ascot with Diamond Micropattern Serà Fine SilkBurgundy Silk Suspenders Serà Fine Silk

Above: Burgundy Silk Ascot with Diamond Micropattern, Burgundy Silk Suspenders

James Bond in Casino Royale

Fast-forward to Daniel Craig sipping martinis in Montenegro — yes, that scene in Casino Royale. Bond trades the tie for a navy Italian silk ascot, proving that true luxury never tries too hard. Cool, confident, and dangerously well-dressed.

🔵 Imitate the look: unleash your inner 007 with a navy blue silk ascot — crafted from Como silk for a suave, secret-agent edge.

🎯 Style tip: for that extra Bond polish, wear it with black barathea suspenders — discreet, elegant, and perfectly formal.

navy blue patterned silk ascot  serà fine silkBlack Grosgrain Barathea Silk Suspenders Serà Fine Silk

Above: Navy Silk Ascot with Blue Pattern, Black Satin Barathea Tuxedo Silk Suspenders

Modern-Day Celebrities: Harry Styles and David Beckham

If anyone’s keeping the silk ascot for men alive and thriving, it’s these two. Harry Styles wears his with rockstar nonchalance — silk, curls, and attitude perfectly in sync. David Beckham, meanwhile, turns the luxury silk cravat into a masterclass in relaxed refinement. Together, they remind us that accessories don’t follow rules — they make them.

🎨 Imitate the look: embrace your inner rockstar with a printed Italian silk ascot — bold patterns, soft Como silk, and a dose of personality worthy of a headline.

🎯 Style tip: complete the look with green or blue silk suspenders for a fresh, laid-back vibe that says “front row at fashion week.”

Green Silk Ascot with Blue Geometric Pattern Serà Fine SilkGreen Silk Suspenders Serà Fine Silk

Above: Green Silk Ascot with Blue Geometric PatternGreen Silk Suspenders

Why Pop Culture Still Can’t Quit the Ascot

From Rhett Butler’s swagger to Fred Jones’ cartoon cool, ascot ties keep resurfacing in pop culture because they do what few accessories can—they communicate personality. A silk ascot doesn’t shout for attention; it simply says I know who I am.

The recurring presence of silk ascots across classic Hollywood cinema, modern series, and celebrity wardrobes has played a key role in keeping the mens ascot relevant. Ascots evoke luxury, elegance, and individuality—qualities that resonate with men drawn to timeless style with character. Whether worn with tailored suits or more relaxed ensembles, the silk ascot allows men to express confidence and creativity through detail.

Luxury ascot ties for men inspired by classic style and pop culture

From the polished elegance associated with Golden Age cinema to the playful charm of animated icons, ascot ties for men have proven their staying power. More than a passing trend, the men’s ascot remains a symbol of personal style—one that continues to evolve while staying unmistakably itself.

How to Pull Off the Ascot Look (Without Looking Like You Tried Too Hard)

Here’s the thing: the Italian silk ascot isn’t just for weddings or weekend brunch at Lake Como — though it works beautifully for both. Tuck one into a crisp shirt, add a blazer, and suddenly you’re the best-dressed man in any room (or Zoom).

Inspired by iconic ascot ties seen in film, television, and pop culture? Incorporating a silk ascot into your wardrobe is one of the simplest ways to express individuality through detail. Whether paired with a suit or worn under a knit jacket, silk ascots convey confidence, personality, and a quiet sense of style.

Final Word (and a Wink)

Fred had one. Bond had one. Gable had one.
Now it’s your turn.

Slip on a Serà Fine Silk ascot, made in Italy from the finest Como silk, and step into your main-character moment. Pair it with a touch of confidence — and perhaps a pair of perfectly tailored suspenders — and you’re ready to steal the scene.

Because after all, as Bond would say, style should always be shaken, not stirred.

🎬 Want more style stories, tips, and behind-the-scenes details from the world of Italian silk? Subscribe to the Serà Fine Silk newsletter and be the first to discover new arrivals, styling ideas, and exclusive releases—delivered straight to your inbox.

March 03, 2026 — Francesca Serafin
Tags: ASCOT SCARF

Leave a comment

Please note: comments must be approved before they are published.