Ramy recently asked why we pick certain designs for our ties. Part of what we select for new designs is what we like and part are classic designs. Our classic designs are influenced very heavily by British traditional patterns - for example regimental stripes using a repp weave. Or geometric patterns from the Macclesfield area of England. Twill silks make a wonderful printed silk.
Grenadines and beautiful satins are from the north of Italy. At first we worked with smooth formal British satins but over time I have fallen in love with the Italian satins which have texture.
We also like to experiment and in the past we raised silk worms on a family farm and wove Thai silk using classic Mudmee and Shot silk. On occasion we would merge Thai silk with western designs such as a New York Mets stripe we wove for Patrick, or an Ask Andy club tie we wove for Andy Gilchrist.
When I was young I grew up in the fashion business and the method for picking designs was more commercial where the world of current fashion trends ruled our choices. I can remember walking with my father Mark Hober as boy in New York and he would always look in the windows of clothing stores. Curious I asked him why he was looking and he told me that you always learn new things. He also told me that the same design with different color ways is like having a new design. He also explained to me that the best way to develop your personal style is to go shopping and explore new colors, fabrics and designs - rather than relying on others...
Last but not least I listen to customer requests...