Stock tie

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A stock-tie [1], or stock, is a white tie worn around the neck of a competitor riding in an equestrian event. It is required in fox hunting, dressage, and the dressage phase of eventing, and is also seen in show jumping. It is always worn with a pin (usually plain and gold, although fancier pins are also seen), stuck through the knot or just below the knot.

The stock was traditionally used in the hunt field. It was worn as a safety measure, so that is could be used as a temporary bandage for a horse or sling for a rider should they injure themselves. It was also useful in the event of rain, keeping the neck warm and dry.

Stock tie is a formal tie worn in the 19th century by gentlemen. A "stock" was a more formal men's wear accessory for the mid 19th century. They were often black or white, made of silk, starched, and further reinforced to be stiff around the neck. With the chin forced up, the wearer was thought to look more important and formal. Stocks buckled or hooked up the back and sometimes had bows or ruffles attached to the front. Formal wear for gentlemen throughout the Victorian era was: black tailcoat, white shirt, white stock or bow tie, and white vest. Gloves were de rigueur throughout the period and usually white. A plain white shirt worn with the collar pointed up, and a stock tie made from a length of white gauze, fine cotton or silk.