As men's suits became soberer and more uniform in the 19th century, their neckwear grew more intricate and individualistic

To persist for hundreds of years, a garment needs to serve powerful practical, social, or emotional needs that individuals may be only dimly aware of. Though decorative and somewhat superfluous now, the necktie was highly functional at the outset.

But ties will continue to be worn on the most formal occasions, and as quirky accoutrements for the self-consciously old-fashioned or whimsical. In other words, neckties are the new bow ties

But that age-old link between neckties and power is rapidly fraying too. One of Zuckerberg's toughest questioners now holds the second-highest office in the land. And she doesn't wear a tie to work, either.