Out of the Market 7+ Years – Updated MM PE / FO Recruiters? (And Tie or No Tie These Days?)

Been out of the recruiting game for a while — quick background: BB IB > two separate (L)MM PE firms (NYC metro) over the past seven years. Things moving internally at my firm, so starting to keep my eyes open for the right opportunity (strong recs, etc.).

Already starting to tap my network and have a handful of promising leads, but also want to go through more formal recruiting processes in parallel. Trying to be mindful of how many personal contacts I reach out to right now — great relationship with my current firm and expect their support, but want to control the narrative as much as possible.

Likely targeting middle market PE or family offices, but would be open to a larger fund for the right fit. Strong track record — consistently promoted, top performer among peers, and fortunate to have senior execs and current/former partners who would vouch strongly for me.

When I was last in the market, the usual names were Henkel, OxBridge, CPI, SG Partners, BellCast, Amity, DSPNY, SearchOne, GlowCap, Opus.

• Are these still the main players?
• Has anyone fallen off?
• Any new firms? (Assuming there are.)
• When I was last in the market, I was more focused on associate-level roles — are these still the go-to names for VP/Principal+ hiring?
• Is there a list or thread someone could point me to with an updated view?

At the risk of getting this thread off the rails — what's the deal with ties these days?
Frankly, I haven't worn one in years. Back when I last went through a formal recruiting process, ties were obviously the norm.
These days, even when meeting very senior executives (as I often do), I never wear a tie — maybe a suit or blazer, but no tie.
Just curious what the expectation is when doing initial recruiter meetings (are first meetings with recruiters on Zoom these days?).
And when going through a formal PE interview, is wearing a tie still seen as a sign of respect, or does it just make you seem like you’re not current?
It’s strange because if I were meeting with any of these people (as I often do), I would never put on a tie — but obviously I get that sometimes for a formal process it can be a sign of respect. Just want to make sure I'm respectful without broadcasting something unintended.

Appreciate any help.