Bow Ties For Men: A Beginner’s Guide to Bow Ties

bow tie guide for men

Bow ties can be intimidating. Most men are unsure when to wear a bow tie, how to tie a bow tie, and what type of bow tie to choose. If you’re one of those men, fear not. I’ll explain the different types of bow ties, how to tie a bow tie, and when it’s appropriate to wear one.

Origin and history of the bow tie

Types of Bow Ties

There are three types of bow ties: pre-tied bow ties, self-tie bow ties, and clip-on bow ties. These categories don’t include various shapes, patterns, and styles.

Pre-Tied Bow Tie

Pre-tied bow ties are the most popular type of bow tie among men. If you don’t normally wear bow ties, the pre-tied feature saves you the hassle of learning how to tie knots. They are typically less than expensive than the self-tie style, and usually look fairly uniform. Traditionalists shy away from pre-tied bow ties because they don’t look as good as self-tie bow ties.

Jos. A. Bank

Ribbed Pre-Tied Blue Bow Tie

Jos. A. Bank

Self-Tie Bow Tie

Self-tie bow ties, also known as freestyle bow ties, are traditional bow ties that don’t come pre-tied. It’s challenging for a beginner to tie a self-tie bow tie, but it becomes easier with practice. There are many shapes and types of knots, but beginners should stick to the basics. Self-tie bow ties often look better than their pre-tied counterparts, so definitely upgrade to this style once you feel comfortable tying knots.

Jos. A. Bank

Bank Square & Circle Pattern Self-Tie Bow Tie

Jos. A. Bank

Clip-On Bow Tie

Clip-on bow ties should only be worn as a last resort. They are easily recognizable because they clip onto the front of your collar without wrapping around your neck. Clip-on bow ties should only be worn by children. Stylish men need to wear self-tie bow ties.

Boxed Gifts

Men’s Black Clip-On Bow Tie

Boxed Gifts

How To Tie a Bow Tie

Like neckties, bow ties can be tied in a variety of ways. Beginners should stick to basic knots. The video below from ties.com shows you How to Tie a Perfect Bow Tie.

Video credit: ties.com

Types of Bow Tie Fabric

What types of fabric are bow ties made of?

  • Silk
  • Linen
  • Cotton
  • Blended
  • Wool
  • Nylon
  • Polyester
  • Velvet

Silk Bow Ties

Silk is the most popular fabric used for bow ties. It has a light sheen that matches perfectly with silk satin lapels on a tuxedo or dinner jacket. Silk bow ties should normally be worn with formal outfits, but they work well with some casual outfits as well.

Ox and Bull Trading Co.

Black Formal Pinstripe Silk Bow Tie

Ox and Bull Trading Co. Star Wars

Stormtrooper Red Men’s Bow Tie

Star Wars Disney

Lamp Scattered Navy Men’s Bow Tie

Disney Ox and Bull Trading Co.

Navy Silk Bow Tie

Ox and Bull Trading Co.

Linen and Cotton Bow Ties

Cotton and linen fabric are lightweight and breathable. This makes them the perfect choice for a summer bow tie. Common patterns for summer bow ties include seersucker, pastel, and multi-colored checks.

Cotton Bow Ties

Ox and Bull Trading Co.

Red Gingham Bow Tie

Ox and Bull Trading Co. Cufflinks, Inc.

Tropical Blue Men’s Bow Tie

Cufflinks, Inc.

Cotton Blend Bow Ties

Jos. A. Bank

1905 Collection Paisley Pre-Tied Bow Tie

Jos. A. Bank Jos. A. Bank

1905 Collection Micro Dot Pre-Tied Bow Tie

Jos. A. Bank

Wool and Velvet Bow Ties

Wool and velvet bow ties are great choices in the fall and winter. They have a texture that is visually warming during the cold months. Velvet bow ties have not been popular for decades, but are making a comeback. I suggest having at least one wool and one velvet bow tie in your collection.

Ox and Bull Trading Co.

Navy and White Polka Dot Wool Bow Tie

Ox and Bull Trading Co. Ox and Bull Trading Co.

Black Velvet Bow Tie

Ox and Bull Trading Co.

Nylon and Polyester Bow Ties

Bow ties made from nylon and polyester are typically cheaper than bow ties made from other fabrics. If you want to display true style, stick with silk, cotton, wool, or a nice blend. Nylon and polyester are suitable choices for kids, but not for a well-dressed man.

Bow Tie Patterns

Like neckties, men’s bow ties come in a variety of patterns. Stick with a solid pattern for more formal events, and feel free to wear extravagant designs for casual events. Your choice of color should follow the same rules as matching a shirt and tie. Additionally, your belt needs to match your outfit.

Common Bow Tie Patterns

  • Solid Bow Tie
  • Striped Bow Tie
  • Polka Dot Bow Tie
  • Bulletin Dot Bow Tie
  • Herringbone Bow Tie
  • Argyle Bow Tie
  • Plaid Bow Tie
  • Check Bow Tie
  • Floral Bow Tie
  • Paisley Bow Tie
  • Geometric Pattern Bow Tie
  • Novelty Bow Tie

Bow Tie Shapes

What are the most popular bow tie shapes?

Bow ties come in a variety of shapes and sizes. You’ll also hear nicknames for different shapes. The five most popular bow tie shapes are the butterfly, the big butterfly, the batwing, the diamond point, and the rounded club.

The Butterfly Bow Tie

The most popular bow tie shape is the butterfly. It’s easily recognizable because of its winged-shape that resembles a butterfly. This is an ideal shape for beginners and can be used for most occasions.

Consumable Depot

Adjustable Red Bow Tie

Consumable Depot Flairs New York

Gentleman’s Diamond Pointed Pre-Tied Bow Tie

Flairs New York

The Diamond Point Bow Tie

The diamond point bow tie, also known as the diamond tip bow tie, is named for its pointed edges. It has an asymmetrical shape that looks like a diamond. This unique shape is starting to gain popularity.

The Batwing Bow Tie

Also known as a slim bow tie or straight bow tie, the batwing bow tie has a flat, small appearance—usually less than 2″ in height. The batwing bow tie isn’t as formal as the butterfly, but it still works for many occasions.

Devemnu Homme

Mens Formal Pre-tied Straight Bowtie

Devemnu Homme

The Rounded Club Bow Tie

The rounded club bow tie is not often seen, but is a sure bet to be unique at your next event. Instead of flat or pointed edges, they are round. Rounded club bow ties can look good if you have the right face shape, so try one on before buying.

Additional Bow Tie Shapes

  • The Big Butterfly Bow Tie
  • Pointed-End Bow Tie
  • Asymmetrical Bow Tie
  • Single-End Bow Tie

Bow Tie Sizing

Most men’s bow ties have an adjustable clasp that can be worn on collars between 14″-18″. Some brands use fixed lengths such as small (14″-15″), medium (15″-16.5″), large (17″-18.5″), and extra large (19″-20″).

The size of the actual bow tie usually ranges from 1.5″-3″ tall and 4″-5.5″ wide.

Bow Tie FAQs

When should you wear a bow tie?

You should always wear a bow tie at formal events where you’ll be wearing a tuxedo (black tie). A bow tie is also acceptable in place of a tie at semi-formal events. It’s a matter of personal preference.

When should you not wear a bow tie?

You should not wear a bow tie at a funeral or wake. You should also refrain from wearing a bow tie at casual events where other men are wearing ties or no neckwear.

Is a bow tie more formal than a tie?

Yes, a bow tie is more formal than a tie. If you want to err on the side of being too formal, wear a bow tie. If you want to err on the side of being too casual, wear a necktie.

Are clip-on bow ties OK?

Clip-on bow ties are only acceptable for children. Men should wear a self-tie bow tie, or at the very least a pre-tied style.

Do you need a special shirt for a bow tie?

A bow tie can be worn with most formal dress shirts. A bow tie should always be worn with a dress shirt that has a wing tip collar. It’s important to have a collar that is clean and crisp. Collar stays are great to keep your collar in place. If your shirt comes untucked frequently, I suggest wearing a shirt stay to keep it in place.

Should you wear a vest with a bow tie?

Wearing a vest with a bow tie depends on the type of event. It’s perfectly acceptable to match the two as long as the overall look is appropriate.

Summary

Types of Bow Ties

  • Pre-tied bow tie
  • Self-tie bow tie
  • Clip-on bow tie

How to Tie a Bow Tie

Types of Bow Tie Fabric

  • Silk
  • Linen
  • Cotton
  • Blended
  • Wool
  • Nylon
  • Polyester
  • Velvet

Bow Tie Patterns

  • Solid Bow Tie
  • Striped Bow Tie
  • Polka Dot Bow Tie
  • Bulletin Dot Bow Tie
  • Herringbone Bow Tie
  • Argyle Bow Tie
  • Plaid Bow Tie
  • Check Bow Tie
  • Floral Bow Tie
  • Paisley Bow Tie
  • Geometric Pattern Bow Tie
  • Novelty Bow Tie

Bow Tie Shapes

  • Butterfly
  • Batwing
  • Diamond Point
  • Big Butterfly
  • Pointed-End
  • Asymmetrical
  • Modified Butterfly

Bow Tie Sizing

Most men’s bow ties have an adjustable clasp that can be worn on collars between 14″-18″. Some brands use fixed lengths such as small (14″-15″), medium (15″-16.5″), large (17″-18.5″), and extra large (19″-20″).

The size of the actual bow tie usually ranges from 1.5″-3″ tall and 4″-5.5″ wide.

You’re now ready to show off that stylish bow tie at your next formal event. If you’re wearing a necktie, be sure you know how to tie a tie.

About The Author

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As Founder of Handbook of Man, Tommy Murata helps men of all ages and backgrounds reach their full potential. A self-proclaimed renaissance man, he enjoys golfing, skiing, DIY projects, and learning new skills. When he’s not playing outdoors, Tommy enjoys learning web design and playing music.

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