Have you worn an apparently perfect tuxedo but felt that something is missing? Most of the time, it’s the bow tie.
Although regarded as an accessory, it is a black tie essential.
And being close to your face and collar makes the impression of the whole ensemble.
A bow tie also showcases personality. So, when done right, your tuxedo speaks for itself.
But with the wrong styling, you’ll be set to disproportionate an otherwise captive look.
This article will give you insights on how to wear a bow tie properly. So, your next tuxedo wear looks complete and aesthetic.
How to Wear a Bow Tie with Tuxedo
A bow tie and a tuxedo have an innate match. Even without the style tips, you’ll somehow manage to pull these together.
But we want you to be on top of your game and look informed in every style choice. So, here are our recommendations.
Ensure to Choose the Right Bow Tie Size
The first tip to donning a perfect bow tie is choosing the right size. And the size here refers to the width of the knot.
As a general rule, the size should be proportionate to your face.
So, choose a narrow bowtie if you have a slim face. Similarly, go with a thick knot to balance the wider face.
Additionally, the volume should complement your facial silhouette.
A bowtie staying between the two angles of your jaw would be the epitome of perfect sizing.
Bowtie Styles to Wear with a Tuxedo
Next in line on wearing a perfect bow tie is choosing between different styles. The idea is to pick a style that matches the occasion and your personality.
First is the butterfly bow tie. This is the most classic bow tie style that works with any dress code.
You can wear a butterfly shape for a no-brainer tuxedo look.
Contrary to this is the big butterfly. We recommend wearing this formal bowtie style for a statement-making look.
The batwing or straight bow tie is another popular style. It’s less formal but appropriate for all formal occasions.
A batwing shape is our recommendation for a standout contemporary style.
Lastly, there is a diamond point bow tie. It’s not for everyone.
But those who want to stay in the realm of sartorial styling should wear a diamond point shape.
Also, the fabric you choose will complement the tuxedo style you’re going with. For example, the fabric of the bowtie and lapels should match a classic black tie outfit.
But for creative tuxedo looks, you can use silk, cotton, jacquard, and even wool.
Wear the Right Shirt with Your Bow Tie
The shirt collar is the place where the bow tie’s charisma originates. It, therefore, makes a big impact on your overall look.
With your tuxedo, the semi-spread collar is the best shirt style. The collar gap hides under your bow tie, creating a polished style.
A wing collar is an equally appropriate match for a bowtie. However, it would be a formal style compared to a semi-spread collar.
When wearing a dress shirt with a tuxedo, proportionate the collar with the wings of the bow tie. Also, avoid wearing a button-down collar.
Match the Color with Your Tuxedo Jacket
On high formal grounds, matching the bow tie with the tuxedo jacket is a highly dapper move.
The black bow tie works in many situations matching the classic black tuxedo.
However, if the dress code is slightly less formal, you can experiment with colors.
A navy bowtie, for example, can be an elegant option. Similarly, a burgundy one can offer a bold look.
Patterns also allow for showcasing style in a traditional framework. Knit ties are our favorites for such playful moves.
Regarding color and patterns, it’s important to avoid wearing a white bow tie casually.
Knotting a Bowtie the Right Way
All the styling details you master narrow down to achieving a proper knot. And for this, we recommend practicing beforehand and not the night before the event.
It’s fine to have some asymmetry in your bow tie. In fact, it’s a characteristic of a self-tied bow tie that it never looks too perfect.
This asymmetry also appears as a conscious attention to detail that refines your elegance.
So, here’s how you can tie a proper bow tie knot.
● Start by placing the bow tie around your collar. Make sure it stays high around the collar.
● As both sides dangle around the collar, keep one side longer than the other.
● Then tie an initial knot by looping the long side and pulling it out on the collar.
● Next, fold the shorter side sideways, creating the initial front of the knot.
● Pull down the long side in the middle of the knot and join the edge together. This step will create a loop.
● Slide the long slide into the loop, and your bow tie is ready. However, you’ll need to play with different ends to create the finalized shape.
When to Wear a Bow Tie with Tuxedo
There are many instances where you can wear a bow tie with a tuxedo.
The first is a formal invite where the dress code mentions black or white-tie attire. Wearing these garments here is mandatory.
In comparison, it’s not necessary for a semi-formal event. But a colorful bow matched with a tuxedo stands out in such situations.
Similarly, weddings, galas, operas, and other elegant events are some other appropriate places.
A bow tie with a suit can work for festive casual situations to mark a distinct style.
Untie Your Bowtie at the End of an Evening
Untying your bowtie at the end of an evening is a gesture of being sartorially casual. And it’s a typical practice to enjoy the less-formal aspects of a formal evening.
We also consider it while not recommending a pre-tied bow tie or a clip-on bow tie.
