Bow Ties - Sophistication And Tradition

The bowtie is a men's fashion accessory worn with formal attire by males of many ages. Men may choose to wear a bowtie with a suit, tuxedo or simply a dinner jacket. The bowtie is a length of fabric tied around the collar just like most other ties; however a bowtie must be tied symmetrically so that the opposite ends form loops.

Bowties vary in length and should be bought according to shirt collar size. These are available in silk or a combination of other fabrics. They are rarely stiff fabrics like wool. You can purchase pre tied bow ties which have had a bow sewn onto them. With these the wearer simply slips the tie over his neck. Other bowties come in clip on style. The most difficult, but perhaps best looking bowtie is the bowtie you tie yourself.

How to Tie a Bowtie
Tying a bowtie is no easy feat, but with practice it can be learned. When tying a bowtie begin by draping the bowtie around your neck. The end on your right should be about 1 1/2 inches longer than the end on your left. Cross the long end over the short end. Pass the long end up through the loop. Hold the hanging end and fold back to form a loop between your thumb and index finger to make the front of the tie. Draw the left end of the tie over the front of the bow. Form a loop with the left end also. Put this loop behind the front loop so that it faces the opposite direction. Pinch the two loops together and push the second loop into the knot behind the front loop. Tighten the knot by pulling the loops or untie by pulling the tails.

I know that this sounds complicated, but it gets easier with practice. You may someday find yourself trying fancier knots or creating your own. You would not be the first to attempt this. The bowtie has migrated through many cultures and each one lent its own special touch. Its origins can be traced to Croatian mercenaries. This look was soon adopted by French aristocrats and carried to other parts of Europe and the Americas. The bow tie was considered a symbol of sophistication. The bowtie still holds rank as a symbol of sophistication. It is imperative that a man wear a bowtie when attending any function that requires black tie attire. The tie is often thought of as classic and looks quite dapper on any man.

Because bowties are less commonly worn they are harder to find than a normal tie; however there is little price difference between a bowtie and a standard necktie. If you will not need a bowtie frequently I suggest renting. This will provide you with a lower cost and more selection. Renting will guarantee proper fit and give a better selection of colors as well. Just remember black tie formal means black tie, so do not go over board when making your choice. The best idea is always to honor your hosts wishes.