Complete Guide to Wearing Bow Ties in 2023 | When after how Men's Guide (2023)

Men have the option of wearing a bow tie on various occasions such as a wedding, gala or graduation ceremony. Some men also like to wear it every day because of the elegance it exudes. And for other men it is just an additional accessory and they prefer the tie.

Do you think that a bow tie is only reserved for tuxedos and similar chic outfits? Or are you here to learn how to properly match your bow tie to your attire? Or just here to improve your knowledge of flying? No worries; All your questions will be answered here in this article.

The re-trend in 2023

Yes, now the bow tie is in the foreground again at weddings...

This season, the bow tie has made a big comeback at weddings. The bow tie is also a new take on a chic and elegant style for men. Whenever a special event is coming up, the bow tie is a great way to punctuate the time. Wearing a bow tie makes you look like a dapper man, but it requires a few rules to make them a valuable ally. Whether you decide on the theme and want to attend a special event, a bow tie can make you stand out.

Complete Guide to Wearing Bow Ties in 2023 | When after how Men's Guide (2)

Remember, a bow tie isn't just for formal wear and dandies...

Available in a wide variety of shapes, colors, designs and patterns, the bow tie offers an excellent space for inspiration. A bow tie is either fancy or quirky. Yes, you cannot dress as you like every day, but the bow tie is a great accessory for you if you want to look more stylish.

How to style a bow tie in 2023 – essentials

Complete Guide to Wearing Bow Ties in 2023 | When after how Men's Guide (3)

Anyone can wear the bow tie, but there are basic rules that must be followed in order to wear the bow tie properly, such as: B. the choice of bold patterns with solid colors. If you're confused, it's easy to start with a light-colored or white shirt. A light colored shirt enhances your bow tie and also makes it a part of the dressing.

There are many ways to style a bow tie and the best approach depends on the occasion and your personal style. Here are a few ideas to get you started:

  1. Classy: Pair a classic black bow tie with a tailored tuxedo or suit for a formal event.

  2. Patterned: Add visual interest to your outfit by choosing a bow tie with a bold pattern like polka dots or stripes.

  3. Pre-tied: If you are in a hurry or just not sure if you can tie a bow tie, you can opt for a pre-tied bow tie. These come in a range of styles and are easy to don and adjust.

  4. Self-Tying: A self-tying bow tie gives you the most control over the look and feel of your bow tie. Experiment with different styles and knotting techniques to find the look that suits you best.

    (Video) HOW TO TIE A BOW TIE Step-By-Step The Easy Way, Slow, For Beginners - WORKS GUARANTEED

  5. Color: Have fun with color! Choose a bow tie to match your shirt and suit, or go for a bold, statement hue.

No matter how you style your bow tie, make sure it looks neat and polished. A sloppy or poorly tied bow tie can ruin the look of an otherwise stylish outfit.

face shape

Complete Guide to Wearing Bow Ties in 2023 | When after how Men's Guide (4)

First, choose the size and shape of a bow tie according to your face shape. As most of our bow ties come in classic size and will fit most people. But it's up to you to choose bigger, smaller, thinner and slimmer. The goal is to find harmony through your facial volume.

The jacket

Complete Guide to Wearing Bow Ties in 2023 | When after how Men's Guide (5)

Usually a bow tie is found with a suit or jacket. However, the size of the collar lapels may vary. We therefore recommend that you choose wide lapels that match the size of your bow tie. A giant men's bow tie needs a jacket with large lapels to keep it looking well tailored depending on the size.

Once you've found a shirt collar, think about the lapels as well. The bow tie is often worn with a suit or at least with a jacket. And lapel size may vary. Depending on the size of your bow tie, prefer lapels that are more or less wide. A large men's bow tie needs a jacket with wide lapels so that it doesn't look too big.

Casual dress style

Yes, the bow tie not only goes with suits and tuxedos, it can also be worn with a casual everyday look. This is a very elegant accessory and will make your dress look special for the day.

You can wear it in shirt and pants depending on how formal you make each piece. Just as you would imagine with a chambray or oxford shirt, plain jeans and a knitted blazer.

Why you should wear bow ties

Complete Guide to Wearing Bow Ties in 2023 | When after how Men's Guide (6)

In the next section of our blog, you will learn why you should wear a bow tie and you must only wear an original bow tie. Because it is very rare that people wore an original bow tie that is timeless in its shape. Because the fly has everything to seduce.

When to wear in 2023

Complete Guide to Wearing Bow Ties in 2023 | When after how Men's Guide (7)

You can wear a bow tie as an accessory at any age and for all important events in your life. You can also change your bow tie often and build up your collection to wear on special occasions. A fly is relatively small but highly visible to draw attention quickly. As it is placed just below your face, despite changing trends, choose carefully as it is synonymous with masculine sophistication.

How to choose a perfect bow tie

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At a wedding, it is best to wear a bow tie. And your choice of bow tie will largely depend on the style of the wedding, whether it be classic, urban, country or bohemian. Choose the right color according to your role in the wedding ceremony.

(Video) 10 Black Tie Rules To ALWAYS Follow | Black Tie Event Dress Code Guide

If you are a groom

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If you are going to be a groom, choose a suit that is relaxing and comfortable. You're going to be the king of the day, so choose the one you're comfortable with. Choose a tie in the same fabric as your pocket squares. Make a good pair. If you have a plain bow tie, choose a light-colored pocket square as well. Or you can go for a natural color like a plain blue bow tie paired with a light blue pocket square. It will make you look classy.

When you are the best man

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First, consider the theme of the wedding and choose your dress according to the couple's dress code to match their style. Here you can choose a colored bow tie, e.g. B. if the groom wears a red bow tie, you can also wear a red bow tie. Otherwise, you can opt to wear a dark pink bow tie.

if you are guest

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When attending a wedding as a guest, the rule of wearing a bow tie is simple. Never go beyond the formality of the groom's attire. Choose a plain bow tie for a classy chic wedding and if the wedding is simple you can try the Liberty, Tartan or Polka Dot bow tie depending on your choice.

The bow tie is back in fashion in 2021, but to wear it properly you need to follow the rules above.

Step-by-step guide to tying a bow tie the right way!

Complete Guide to Wearing Bow Ties in 2023 | When after how Men's Guide (12)

Here is a step-by-step guide to tying a bow tie:

  1. Start by adjusting the bow tie around your neck so that the left side is slightly longer than the right. The bow tie should be positioned just below your collarbones with the ends hanging evenly in front of your chest.

  2. Take the longer end of the bow tie and cross it over the shorter end, forming an X shape.

  3. Hold the X-shape with your left hand and pull the longer end of the bow tie through the loop you created with your right hand.

  4. Tighten the bow tie by holding the center of the X shape with your left hand and pulling the ends with your right hand. Make sure the fly is centered and even.

  5. Fold the longer end over the shorter end to form a loop shape.

  6. Hold the bow with your left hand and use your right hand to tuck the longer end under the bow and through the loop that has formed.

    (Video) How to Tie the Perfect Bow Tie | Lessons from a Men's Shop

  7. Adjust the bow tie as needed to keep it looking symmetrical and straight.

Bow Ties Vs Ties in 2023

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Choosing between a bow tie and a tie depends on the dress code of the event or occasion you are attending as well as your style. Here are some factors to consider:

  1. Formality: A tie is generally considered more versatile and can be worn in a range of settings, from business meetings to casual parties. A bow tie, on the other hand, is more formal and is usually reserved for black tie events or other very formal occasions.

  2. Dress code: If the dress code for an event is formal or black tie, a bow tie is generally the right choice. For business or professional settings, a tie is usually more appropriate.

  3. Personal Style: Ultimately, deciding between a bow tie and a tie comes down to your style and preferences. If wearing a bow tie makes you feel comfortable and confident, go for it! If you prefer a more traditional look, a tie might be a better choice.

If you're still unsure, it's always a good idea to play it safe and dress more formally. You can always take off a tie or bow tie if the occasion is more casual than expected.

Types of bowties in 2023

Complete Guide to Wearing Bow Ties in 2023 | When after how Men's Guide (14)

Feather bow ties are made from feathers and are a more unusual and showy option. Typically worn as a fashion or decorative accessory, they are not as formal as a traditional bow tie - yet they are the most popular choice for weddings, parties and casual formal events.

Wooden bow ties are made from wood and are a more rustic and natural looking option. Often worn as a casual or outdoor accessory, they are not as formal as a traditional bow tie.

Complete Guide to Wearing Bow Ties in 2023 | When after how Men's Guide (15)

A traditional bow tie is made of silk, wool or synthetic materials and is worn as an accessory for formal or business attire. It is usually worn with a tuxedo or evening dress and tied using a bow tie technique.

In terms of formality, a traditional bow tie is the most business-like option, followed by a wooden bow tie and then a feather bow tie, which is the trendy choice for weddings, parties and other events where you want to look stylish and distinct. However, it is always a good idea to consider the dress code of the event or occasion you are attending and choose a bow tie that is appropriate for the setting.

How to clean a fly

Here are a few steps you can follow to clean a fly:

  1. Check care instructions: Most bow ties have care instructions on the label, so make sure you find specific cleaning instructions before you begin.

    (Video) How to Tie a Bow Tie | Men's Fashion

  2. Spot cleaning: If there are just a few small spots on your bow tie, try spot cleaning with a mild detergent and a clean cloth. Be sure to blot the stain rather than scrub to avoid damaging the fabric.

  3. Hand Wash: If your bow tie is made of delicate fabric or has a lot of stains, you may need to hand wash it. Fill a sink or sink with lukewarm water and add a mild detergent. Gently agitate the fly in the water to loosen any dirt or stains, then rinse thoroughly.

  4. Air Dry: After washing, gently squeeze out excess water and lay flat to dry. Avoid wringing or twisting the bow tie as this can cause it to lose its shape.

  5. Ironing: Once the bow tie is completely dry, you can iron it on a low temperature to remove wrinkles. Be sure to use a press cloth to protect the fabric.

How do I clean a feather fly?

Complete Guide to Wearing Bow Ties in 2023 | When after how Men's Guide (16)

Cleaning a feather bow tie can be a little more difficult than cleaning a traditional bow tie, as the feathers can be delicate and prone to damage. Here are a few steps you can follow to clean a feather fly:

  1. Check care instructions: Most feather flies have care instructions on the label, so make sure you find specific cleaning instructions before you begin.

  2. Dusting and Brushing: If your feather bow tie is only lightly soiled, you may be able to remove any dirt or debris by dusting it with a soft brush or brushing the feathers with your fingers.

  3. Spot Cleaning: If your feather bow tie has a few small spots, try spot cleaning with a mild detergent and a clean cloth. Be sure to blot the stain rather than scrub to avoid damaging the feathers.

  4. Hand Wash: If your feather bow tie is heavily soiled or has a lot of stains, you may need to hand wash it. Fill a sink or sink with lukewarm water and add a mild detergent. Gently agitate the fly in the water to loosen any dirt or stains, then rinse thoroughly.

  5. Air Dry: After washing, gently squeeze out excess water and lay flat to air dry. Avoid wringing or twisting the bow tie as this can damage the feathers.

  6. Style: Once the feather bow tie is completely dry, you can fluff and style the feathers with a low heat blow dryer. Avoid using a high heat setting as this can damage the feathers.

Where to buy flies in 2023?

While there are many feather fly manufacturers on the market, not everyone is as interested in sourcing bird feathers sustainably. To meet the high demand, many retailers would resort to harmful ways to source the feathers. At Mandujour, we ensure that all feathers are sustainably sourced without harming a bird in the process.

We have a huge range of Feather Bowties available across the world. Visit our shop to take a look at our new arrivals. We also manufacture custom-made products on request!

FAQs

When should a man wear a bow tie? ›

Sometimes referred to as Business Attire or Cocktail Attire, Semi-Formal wear typically involves a bow tie. A suit - even a three-piece suit - is top choice for a Semi-Formal event; a tuxedo would be considered overdressed.

What does a bow tie say about a man? ›

A Bow Tie Says You're Confident and Thoughtful

Sporting a bow tie means you are not afraid to stand out in the crowd. When you put on your favorite neck wear, you are doing far more than simply dressing for the day - you are showcasing your true bold identity.

What type of man wears a bow tie? ›

A list of bow tie wearers consists of academics, engineers, entrepreneurs, scientists, engineers, political leaders and writers. Winston Churchill, Albert Einstein, Abraham Lincoln, Thomas Edison and Mark Twain wore bow ties.

When should you not wear a bow tie? ›

If you want to wear a luxury or designer bow tie only as something special, then you should avoid wearing them to casual events. It may not be appropriate to wear bow ties for serious occasions, such as events with a dress code where uniformity is expected or at funerals.

What color is best for a bow tie? ›

Traditionally white is the most formal bow tie color. In fact, there is a dress code called “White Tie” that consists of white bow tie, tailcoat jacket, and a white waistcoat. Bright colored bow ties are most common for weddings that occur during the day.

Should your bow tie match your shirt? ›

Remember that your shirt should be lighter than your bow tie for the best contrast. The only exception is when you're wearing a solid dark-colored shirt, like navy blue or black. You can choose a bow tie in the same color (darker shade) than your shirt, as long as the bow tie still stands out.

What is the best shirt to wear with a bow tie? ›

The bow tie is in close contact with the collar of the shirt, so make sure you choose a shirt with a collar with a gap between the ends of the collar proportional to the wings of the bow tie. Go with classic collars with a medium to narrow gap, such as French, English, club or broken.

What are the 3 types of bow tie? ›

There are generally three types of bow ties: the pre-tied, the clip-on, and the self-tie.

What does a black bow tie mean? ›

The owner of a black bow tie does not want to attract attention. Often black bow ties are worn by respected and conservative people. Bow ties are the most attractive men accessory, so to make it less eye-catching, men may choose a black one – it's a traditional and neutral. Taurum.

Can you wear a normal shirt with a bow tie? ›

Bow ties are often associated with formal ensembles because they are most commonly accompanied with evening wear, such as a tuxedo or a dress suit. With that being said, bow ties can also be worn with a “normal” shirt for occasions that do not require formal dress code, or for everyday wear.

Is it OK to wear a bow tie with a suit? ›

A bow tie also goes perfectly with most ordinary suits. A bow tie upgrades even just a shirt worn with casually rolled up sleeves. A tie also looks great with an outfit that consists of a jumper and a shirt, for example.

Is bow tie outdated? ›

Bow ties are one of those clothing accessories which never go out of style. Presently, men wear them and will continue to do so in the future.

How big should a man's bow tie be? ›

Most bow ties are sized to go along with average men's neck sizes. The most common lengths are between 38-50 cm (15-20 inches).

How do you show respect to a bow? ›

Men place their hands on the side while women clasp their hands in front. Eyes should be down. It's good to remember that the deeper the bow, the stronger the emotion that comes with it. Fifteen-degree bows are used for informal and formal occasions while a thirty-degree angle bow is reserved for very formal times.

What is the average men's bow tie size? ›

A traditional bow tie is about 4.5-inches wide and 2.25-inches high. Think of the bow ties worn by servers in a restaurant or banquet hall. This is that size. For a larger bow tie, look for bows measuring 5-inches wide and 3-inches tall.

What collar goes with a bow tie? ›

Good collar options for formal outfits are cutaway, Windsor and spread, whilst button-down collars are perfect for smart-casual occasions. The wing collar shirt is the ideal choice for a black tie event.

How do you tie a classy bow? ›

How To Tie a Pretty Bow
  1. Center your ribbons to have equal lengths.
  2. Left over Right (blue over pink)
  3. Left under Right (blue under pink)
  4. Fold a loop with the pink ribbon towards the right.
  5. Bring the blue ribbon down and tuck it under the pink bow.
  6. Pull blue ribbon through towards the left making a loop.
Oct 30, 2019

What does a red bowtie mean? ›

Red. It's called the power tie for a reason, and by wearing a red tie you are implying that you mean business. Just like Tiger Woods wears a red shirt to convey dominance, the red tie is a reaffirmation of strength, authority and dominance within the professional world.

Is it okay to wear a bow tie with a short sleeve shirt? ›

Bow-ties are especially great for summer months because their smaller size creates a better proportion with short sleeve shirts. The key to effectively pairing a bow-tie with your shirt (and any other layer you throw on top) is achieving balance between the patterns and colors.

What color bow tie with black suit? ›

Good hits for a bow tie in combination with a black suit are burgundy, dark green, blue, and why not something brighter than orange. Against this background, extra patterns, slots, and the like can be well outlined.

Should you wear a vest with a bow tie? ›

Tie or bow tie? The vest should always be worn with a shirt with a buttoned collar; this also requires wearing a tie, to underline the formal cut of the suit. The bow tie is less advisable, which stylistically does not suit the three-piece suits.

What color bow tie goes with navy shirt? ›

If you're going to a more formal affair, pair a navy suit with darker bow tie. If you're going to an informal party, pair your navy with a lighter color, like baby blue. Navy is a great color, which allows for many options.

Should a bow tie be worn with a button-down collar? ›

That being said, the recommendation is to only wear a button down with a bow tie if the buttons and collar points are hidden appropriately. If they aren't, it's not the end of the world, but it's not optimal style either. Highlights: This is a more "casual" or "preppy" collar style.

Can you wear a bow tie without a tuxedo? ›

Yes, they are formal wear - weddings, bar mitzvahs, proms, board meetings and galas all pair well with the bow tie. But bow ties can also be semi formal, business casual and even casual.

What is a cowboy bow tie called? ›

A bolo tie may be known by other names, such as Bola tie, cowboy tie, or string tie—but as long as it is a cord clasped together and worn like a tie, it's considered a bolo tie.

What is an untied bow tie called? ›

A self-tie bow tie is an untied bow tie that the wearer would tie themselves. The collar may be adjustable to fit the wearer's neck size. Self-tie can also refer to an untied necktie.

What is a cowboy bow tie? ›

WHAT IS A BOLO TIE? A bolo tie is a necktie made up of three components—a cord, cord tips, and an ornamental clasp. They are sometimes referred to as bola ties, cowboy ties, or shoestring neckties, and are the official neckties of Arizona, New Mexico, and Texas.

What type of bowtie is best? ›

The modern butterfly, also known as the thistle shape, is the most popular bow tie style. This standard butterfly is appropriate for any occasion and it's great for beginners.

Who is famous for wearing bow ties? ›

Jack Cutone, co-founder of Boston Bow Tie, noted that there is ample evidence to support the uniqueness and stature of those who wear bow ties, including Abraham Lincoln, Winston Churchill, Albert Einstein and Sigmund Freud.

What is the reverse bow tie? ›

A reverse bow tie visor is slammed against the window and kicked up along the bottom. Available in a range of sizes for most models of truck.

Does black tie dress code mean bow tie? ›

The suit jacket material is traditionally barathea wool in black. Tie: Always a bow tie for the black tie dress code. You can dare step into using other colours, but not white. That's strictly reserved for the white tie dress code.

Do you have to wear a wing collar shirt with a bow tie? ›

Wing collar shirts should only be worn for formal occasions. They should always be worn with a bow tie, never a tie. They are best suited to black tie and white tie events.

What bow tie goes with a blue shirt? ›

Red and dark blue ties go well blue shirts. In general, a good rule of thumb for a conservative look is a blue or white shirt with a red or blue tie.

Is a bow tie too formal for a wedding? ›

Can a bow tie be worn to a wedding? Absolutely! You can wear a bow tie whether you are an attending guest to a wedding or a member of the wedding party. It is becoming an increasingly more popular choice to wear a bow tie to a wedding over the traditional choice of a standard neck tie.

Why have men stopped wearing ties? ›

The Rise of Business Casual

And even within office cultures, the perception around ties began to change. Ties were something that could be slipped on before a big meeting, but they were fundamentally unnecessary and something of a nuisance to many men.

Why don't men wear ties anymore? ›

Apparently the open-collared shirt is becoming more popular on television and cinema screens, and workplaces are adopting a more relaxed approach when it comes to neck attire. In fact, a lot of people are blaming the boom in creative businesses, such as Facebook and Google, where formal dress codes are not enforced.

What occasions are bow ties for? ›

Bow ties are neckwear for semi-formal occasions, black tie events, and casual day-to-day wear, the dress code dictating the needed bow tie style.

Is it OK to wear bow tie with suit? ›

A bow tie also goes perfectly with most ordinary suits. A bow tie upgrades even just a shirt worn with casually rolled up sleeves. A tie also looks great with an outfit that consists of a jumper and a shirt, for example.

What events do you wear a bow tie? ›

When to Wear a Bow Tie
  • Black Tie and Red Carpet Events. Probably the most obvious place to start is with black tie or red carpet events. ...
  • Weddings. Weddings are another obvious choice of event for donning a bow tie. ...
  • Cruise Ship Balls and Dances. ...
  • Wear a Bow Tie to Work. ...
  • Cosplay. ...
  • Casually Wearing a Bow Tie.

Are bow ties in style 2022? ›

Bow ties have never been out of fashion, but we can conclude that 2022 will be the year where a bow tie around your neck will appear much more often on the street scene than other years.

What type of shirt goes with a bow tie? ›

The bow tie is in close contact with the collar of the shirt, so make sure you choose a shirt with a collar with a gap between the ends of the collar proportional to the wings of the bow tie. Go with classic collars with a medium to narrow gap, such as French, English, club or broken.

What are the three different types of bow tie? ›

There are generally three types of bow ties: the pre-tied, the clip-on, and the self-tie.

Is it OK to wear a bowtie with a black suit? ›

Bow Tie With Black Suit

The most formal color in fashion is black, thus, black suits and tuxedos are paired with black bow ties for formal events. However, you don't always have to wear a black bow tie with a black suit.

Is a bow tie more formal than a neck tie? ›

The best choice will depend on how casual or formal an event would be. More formal occasions demand a bow tie, while less formal events may allow for a necktie or no tie at all. Of course, if the event's formality isn't dictating what you wear — it all comes down to your style!

What is National bow tie Day? ›

National Bow Tie Day, on August 28, is the one and only holiday dedicated to everyone's favorite underrated accessory.

What color bow tie goes best with black suit? ›

Good hits for a bow tie in combination with a black suit are burgundy, dark green, blue, and why not something brighter than orange. Against this background, extra patterns, slots, and the like can be well outlined.

What is the best tie width 2022? ›

We recommend — 2.75”- 3.25”

We recommend selecting a tie that is between 2.75” and 3.25” in width. It's possible to wear a tie as wide as 3.5” but anything wider has the risk of looking like you raided Grandad's closet.

What is the current tie width trend? ›

3.25 Inches: This is the typical width of a standard tie today. It's a contemporary width that has become the norm in the last few years. (Standard ties were a bit wider before then.) 3.5 Inches: This is considered a standard or traditional width tie.

Videos

1. How to Tie a Tie | Windsor (aka Full Windsor or Double Windsor) | For Beginners
(defragmenteur)
2. Formal Bow Ties Guide | Butterfly, Diamond, Straight-End, Modified Butterfly
(He Spoke Style)
3. Contact Lenses for Beginners | How to Put in Contacts
(Doctor Eye Health)
4. How to Tie a Tie (Mirrored / Slowly) - Full Windsor Knot
(tiehole)
5. How to Tie a Windsor Knot | Men's Fashion
(Howcast)
6. How to Tie A Tie - Half Windsor Knot - Easy Method!
(How To Tie A Tie - Reef Knots)

References

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