Bow tie – an elegant men's accessory

Let's try to forget about the tie for a while, what will we have left? The bow tie! Perhaps, choosing an elegant suit, you were missing that little zest that you could not find. Why not try a stylish accessory?

A man wearing a bow tie not only becomes sophisticated, but no doubt will go through any dress code, even at a reception with the Queen. No kidding. In England, a so-called 'White-tie' dress code is required, where a man must wear a tailcoat with a white bow tie in order to receive a reception from the Queen of Great Britain.

However, a man who decides to wear a bow tie in ordinary, everyday life should be prepared for increased attention from others. It is customary in our offices to wear ties, but a bow tie is already exotic. You have to leave your comfort zone and show a little courage, then you will definitely have the desired effect.

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We present you a guide to the accessory fashionable today, where we will tell not only the story, but also the varieties of such an interesting men's accessory.

When the bow tie appeared

The history of the butterfly began around the 17th century in Croatia, where this accessory was worn by military men or mercenaries. In its primary form, the bow tie was similar to a tie and tied over the collar like a tie. We can say that the bow tie and the tie have common roots.

At one of the receptions with the French king, the upper classes highly appreciated the Croatian accessory and gladly adopted this idea, especially since the French were “ahead of the rest” in the field of fashion at that time. Thus, since then, two men's accessories have appeared: a tie and a bow tie. The latter were an integral part of the ceremonial or formal dress code at the turn of the century. By the beginning of the 20th century, the bow tie had become one of the main men's accessories worn by all classes of the time. While the bow tie fell out of everyday fashion after World War II, it has nevertheless remained a familiar addition to the formal dress code to this day.

The last 3-5 years can be considered a bright moment in the history of the bow tie. Among the youth of the West, Russia and the CIS countries, he began to restore its former popularity. Even women, no, no, and even appear with a stylish accessory. Today you can meet people who wear a bow tie to work, to a cocktail party, and even to a casual meeting with friends.

What's the Difference Between Self-Tie, Pre-Tied and Clip-On Bow Ties?

There are several types of bow tie fasteners and fasteners. Let's list them:

The Self-Tie Bow Tie

The Self-Tie Bow Tie

The classic bow tie is a simple ribbon of fabric with a slight bump around the edges that you need to tie yourself In the west it is also called 'freestyle', i.e. 'free'. As a rule, a bow tie, knitted with one's own hand, without any accessories, has the greatest charm and personality.

In addition, at the end of the evening, gentlemen sometimes untie the bow tie and just broadcast it around the neck, it looks very cool. This is what they do in movies, for example, actor George Clooney or Pierce Brosnan, you can watch at your leisure. But first, I advise you to practice beautifully tying a bow tie. In order to learn how to tie a man's accessory, see this diagram.

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The Pre-Tied Bow Tie

The Pre-Tied Bow Tie

The next type is a pre-knotted bow tie. As the name suggests, the butterfly is already knotted for you. The size can be easily adjusted to your neck and fastened on the collar in a few seconds. The disadvantages of a pre-tied bow tie include too perfect knot and aspect ratio.

Any man who is more or less versed in butterflies can easily distinguish a butterfly previously tied at the factory from one that was tied independently. However, if there is no goal of being known as a fashion connoisseur and dandy at the party, this bow tie is always suitable for a beginner.

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The Clip-On Bow Tie

The Clip-On Bow Tie

The third type of bow tie fastening is called 'clip-on', or Clip-On in English. Such a bow tie is already knitted at the factory, but instead of a long ribbon that wraps around the neck, a metal clasp with hooks at the collar cut is used. This bow tie is usually worn by small children.

How to choose a bow tie for yourself?

Sizing a bow tie is easy. The fact is that self-tying butterflies are made practically of the same size, for any neck. If we're talking about pre-knotted bow ties, then it's easy to adjust the length on them using sliders or hooks on the ribbon.

For ease of fitting, take any thread or tape and wrap it once around your neck. Make the exact same distance on your butterfly, adjusting it as needed. The average length of the butterfly strap is 37 – 44.5 cm. Try putting the bow tie under the collar and buttoning it. The butterfly should not choke you, but it should not fall in all directions either. Find the “middle ground” by slightly increasing or decreasing the length of the butterfly.

How to tie a bow tie

The ability to tie a butterfly is an unspoken rite of passage into gentlemen, according to the old world. As I mentioned, learning how to tie a bow tie is not so easy, and it takes practice, however, if you want, everything is comprehensible. I propose to learn how to tie a bow tie using this pattern:

How to tie a bow tie

5 types of bow ties

The Butterfly

The first type of bow tie is called simply 'bow tie'. This is a classic type of butterfly, the shape of which resembles the wings of a butterfly. On average, the width of the bow of a butterfly is 5.5-6.5 cm and is suitable for most men. This is a great bow tie that is suitable for all occasions, so I recommend buying your first bow tie.

The Butterfly

The Big Butterfly

The next type of bow tie is the big bow tie. It is sometimes worn under a tuxedo to a formal event. The size of a large bow tie is about 8 – 8.5 cm, so such a bow tie is suitable for a man with a large neck and head.

The Big Butterfly

The Batwing

A bat-shaped bow tie, also known as a straight or thin bow tie, is the narrowest of all types. This is the favorite butterfly of former US President Abraham Lincoln, as well as James Bond from the 007 movie. The butterfly measures approximately 4.5-5 cm in height, so it fits all men. This is a less formal bow tie compared to 'The Butterfly', but it also matches the 'Black Tie' dress code.

The Batwing

Diamond Shape (The Diamond Point)

The diamond-shaped bow tie is a successful combination of a classic shape and angular diamond-like ends. The butterfly has a very asymmetrical appearance, therefore, tying it on its own, the butterfly always acquires its own individuality in every man.

Diamond Shape (The Diamond Point)

The Rounded Club

The last type of bow tie is club rounded. Already from the name it follows that the edges of the butterfly take on a rounded shape. Such a bow tie is suitable for a theme party in a club or smart casual style.

The Rounded Club

A natural question arises. How to choose a bow tie shape? The choice depends more on your taste and preferences than on strict rules and dress code. Try to choose your butterfly shape that you like best and learn how to tie it correctly. This will be the best choice that will create your personality.

And yet, when is it better to wear a bow tie?

Now that you have chosen your best bow tie, the question arises: – 'When can I wear it and for what?', 'With what to wear a bow tie?', 'What color should the bow tie be?' etc. Let's figure it out.

Bow tie and formal dress code

Bow tie and formal dress code

One of the most common occasions when you see men in bow ties is at a formal event. The most famous dress code is the so called 'Black Tie'. Fit: black tuxedo, white shirt and black bow tie. In addition, it is necessary to wear a vest or a special belt called a 'Camerband'.

Another kind of dress code is 'White Tie'. We can say that the expression 'in full dress' fits this particular dress code, as it is the most formal and strict dress code. So, you will need: a white self-tying bow tie (only this type, no fasteners), a black tailcoat and a white shirt. This is not a very common dress code, but it exists and you need to know about it.

Semi-formal dress code and bow tie

The semi-formal dress code does not have such strict rules as the formal one, so there is room for experimentation. Try experimenting with different colored bow ties, patterns and prints. A bow tie made of tweed or velor will add a positive touch to your look and emphasize your individuality.

Keep in mind that some may not appreciate you in a business classic suit with a polka dot bow tie, however, even such an image can be suitable for a business one. To enhance your style, complement the look with a pocket square. Rest assured, you will create a 'wow' effect in any environment and environment.

Casual Wear and Bow Tie

There are no frameworks and rules for casual style. Here you can definitely walk around with your image and pick up a bow tie under it. Want to wear a checkered mens accessory with a bright shirt and cardigan? No problems! Do you want to wear a floral butterfly, with monograms or Turkish cucumbers under a summer linen suit? It is possible and even necessary! Even better if you buy a bow tie made of wool, cotton or linen. You can support your casual look with various accessories, such as suspenders, colored socks, bright laces.

Have you ever seen a bow tie made of wood? Now they are at the peak of popularity among stylish youth.

Wooden bow tie with brown polka dot shawl for jacket

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Finally

Choosing an image for yourself and dressing stylishly is only half the battle. Much more important is how you will wear your bow tie, with your head held high or not quite confident. Very often, men do not wear a bow tie exactly as their image and outfit dictate. Armed with the knowledge that can be learned from this article, I hope you will try to wear your favorite bow tie with pride and head held high.