Belgian-based company Bivate [4] by Alexandre S. is revolutionizing the necktie by shrinking it down and sassing it up. No longer just a perfunctory fashion component for professionals and prepsters, Bivate's cravats—which sport a flat beveled (or square) knot, sensuously molded leather body and sterling silver piercing—are truly statement-making accessories. And they work equally well on men or women: The adjustable neck allows girls to situate the tie in the center of their décolleté like a necklace, while gentlemen can affix the ties, per usual, over a collared shirt. But all of Bivate's ties aren't abbreviated—one of our favorites for spring is a limited-edition longer version, dubbed "Naturally Handsome," in a sandy-beige suede.

—Jessica Dang