As time passed, though, the tie lost its usefulness. In the 1600s, men wore ties only because they symbolized the fashion of the upper class. King Louis XIV of France wore lace and find silk neck coverings. Consequently, many men followed the king's style. European paintings of the 17th to 19th centuries show men belonging to the military, government, and upper class in neck cloths so high and stiff that they could barely turn their heads. However, in the end, neck cloths became essential clothing for well dressed men.