Bow ties have been used and enjoyed throughout the centuries, and are often seen as a bold, confident statement and an alternative to the regular necktie.
The bow tie is a versatile accessory to a gentleman’s or lady’s outfit due to the vast array of options available, meaning it can be worn to a formal event, but also everyday wear.
There is a bow tie readily available for any occasion!
We have put together a helpful guide to inform you about all the options to consider when choosing your bow tie.
A Brief History of the Bow Tie
Bow ties date back as far as the 17th Century when it was fashionable or even essential for men to wear an item of neckwear.
Bow ties and traditional neckwear were both derived from the cravat, which was the popular choice back then, but the bow tie that we see today became popular towards the end of the 1800s when prominent men in society such as Abraham Lincoln began sporting them as part of their daily attire.
Subsequently many men in high places have brought the bow tie into the limelight, such as Charlie Chaplin, Frank Sinatra, Albert Einstein and Winston Churchill to name a few!
How many types and styles of bow tie are available?
There are 3 main types of bow tie:
- Clip on – these are pre-formed bow ties on a clip for those who perhaps have zero time, or more suitably, for a child. Generally speaking, if you want to make a good impression it’s best to stick to one with a neckband.
- Pre-tied – the bow is already tied, as the name suggests, but it comes with an adjustable neckband. A fabulous option for those who are exploring perhaps the daily use of bow ties but haven’t quite mastered the art of tying their own.
- Self-tied – these are the ones that a bow tie connoisseur will tell you are the cream of the crop! An absolute classic that looks timeless and sophisticated and you will find yourself gaining kudos from those who are ‘in the know’!
It may surprise you how many different styles of bow tie are available.
Listed below are the main ones:
- The ‘Butterfly’ – this the most traditional and well known bow tie and comes in all sorts of patterns and colours to reflect your personality.
- The narrow ‘batwing’ bow tie – this is a more contemporary shape, and creates a more modest bow, ideal for someone who may wish to be more discreet.
- The ‘diamond point’ – very similar to the look of the ‘butterfly’ but with distinctive points on each wing, adding sophistication to any outfit. This bow tie is perfect for the more confident wearer.
- The flattened ‘diamond’ – this is a narrow and smaller alternative to the diamond point bow tie.
- The ‘wings’ bow tie – this is the most modern alternative to the traditional bow tie. If you are an extrovert who likes to make statements with how you dress, then this is perfect for you!
When is it appropriate to wear a bow tie?
Traditionally, the bow tie is generally reserved for formal occasions such as black or white tie events, weddings and other one-off events.
Nowadays though, with its increasing popularity, men and women alike are at liberty to wear the once humble bow tie in pretty much any situation, owing to the magnificent selection of colours and patterns that are available.
It is amazing that such a small addition to a person’s attire can be such a statement of style and speaks volumes of the wearer’s bold personality and discerning taste, oozing charm and sophistication.
How to wear a bow tie
A few things to consider when completing your outfit with a bow tie are:
- Make sure the bow tie and shirt complement each other – it is best to wear a highly patterned bow tie with a plain shirt, or vice versa.
- Select the correct shirt – not all shirts work well with a bow tie. A button-down or a cutaway collar work well, amongst others.
- If desired, it is nice to coordinate with a pocket square, smart watch or cufflinks.
- The width of your bow tie should match the width of your lapels. Larger ties match best with wider lapels.
- Bow ties, whilst mostly worn with shirts and jackets, can also look fabulous as part of a shirt and jumper combination!
In summary, whilst bow ties are not for everyone, there are so many options available that should you wish to experiment and be subtle in your wearing, or if you are a bold uncompromising person that likes your outfit to shout from the rooftops, there is something for everyone.
The most incredible part about the bow tie is how it has continued through time up to this day, and it still gains the respect it deserves!
Walters stock a range of Bow Ties to compliment a range out outfits. Come and visit us in store or you can contact the sales team.