The Wall Street Journal catches up with Michael Drake, who started Drakes London in 1977 as a humble scarf maker. Today, the company is England's largest independent producer of men's ties, with a side business of crafting ties for other brands like J.Crew. They talk about his love of Italy, penchant for purple socks and selling the business to Hong Kong's the Armoury.

I always thought Prince Charles was a stylish dresser. Lots of Englishmen think he’s old-fashioned, but my Italian friends agree with me. Men should be stylish, not fashionable.

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