How to Tie a Bow Tie

It's a classic accessory that might seem complicated at first, but learning how to tie a bow tie will clear that misconception up right away. With a bit of practice and effort, anyone can master the art of tying one.

A bow tie is a classic accessory.

Steeped in history, the bow tie's origins date back to the 17th century. During this period, Croatian mercenaries used scarves to hold the tops of their shirts together. The practice soon became commonplace in France, particularly amongst the upper class. Though they were essentially swaths of cloth in their earliest days, by the mid-1800s, they began to resemble contemporary bow ties.

Today, the bow tie is associated primarily with formal events, such as proms and weddings. It is commonly worn with a tuxedo and is known for being notoriously challenging to tie. Unfortunately, between this and the fact that it's easier for most men to tie a necktie, the bow tie's usage has become severely limited. However, bow ties make such a strong style statement that it's easily worth the time it takes to learn how to tie them. Like riding a bike, once you've learned, you'll never forget!

A bow tie is obviously completely different from a basic necktie. It consists of a piece of fabric that is tied symmetrically around the collar. The two ends meet to form loops. Ties are available in a variety of fabrics, ranging from cotton to silk. Some styles are much dressier than others; in fact, you may come across some downright casual bow ties from time to time. These are ideal for the gentleman who wishes to wear his bow tie in a less formal setting.

Learning how to tie a bow tie may seem quite a daunting task at first. Just reading through the directions may be enough to turn some off! But that's the key – read through the instructions a couple of times before you embark on tying a bow tie for the first time. Once you're even just slightly familiar with what you'll have to do, you'll feel more comfortable and steady.

1. Begin by wrapping the bow tie around a buttoned up shirt collar, so that both ends hang loose on either side.
2. Pull the end on the left side about one-and-a-half inches lower than the right side.
3. Cross the longer end over the shorter end and pass it through the loop that is created; the longer end is now hanging on top of the shorter end.
4. Now is the time to adjust the bow's tightness; pull it tauter or make it looser depending on your comfort level.
5. Pushing the longer end to the side, take the shorter hanging end and double it over itself to create the first loop. Hold it taut against the top button of your shirt.
6. Take the longer end and drop it over the front of the loop you have just created.
7. Next, pull the longer end through the loop to create a new loop – it will face the other direction from the previous loop you created.
8. Pull both loops tautly to tighten, taking care to adjust the sides by nudging gently (if necessary) in order to ensure that both ends are equal.

It sounds complex, and indeed it can be. But tying a bow tie doesn't have to be a dreaded experience. Here are a few tips to make it a simpler task!

• Watch a video. YouTube is loaded with helpful tutorials that take you step-by-step through the process. Visualizing the art of bow-tying may prove a helpful accompaniment to a written tutorial.
• Buy a clip-on! If there's a special event right around the corner and you just don't have time to learn how to tie a bow tie, consider wearing a clip on. Sure, it's a worst-case scenario move, but no one will ever know if you don't tell! Find impressive selections at Bow Tie Club and Rainbow Connection.

• Mens Designer Fashions
• Versace Mens Dress Pants
• How to Wear a Dress Shirt With No Tie
• Men's Fashion Quiz
• Dress Codes for Men Quiz

• 80's Mens Fashion
• Dress Code for Smart Casual
• Bras for Men to Wear
• Mens Fashion in the 1940's
• How to Fold a Handkerchief

• Silk Scarves for Men
• Christian Dior Tuxedo
• Necktie Knots
• Black Tie Attire
• Tan Tuxedo