Is it time to expand your tie repertoire? If so, delving into the realm of bow ties might be the way to go. Sure, you can keep things simple and easy with a pre-tied bow tie. But learning how to tie a bow tie on your own is a great way to take ownership of your look and create a bow that’s entirely unique to you.
As with tying a necktie, tying your own bow tie isn’t difficult to learn; it just takes patience and practice. Perfect your skills and add some fun, trendy fashion to your wardrobe with this rundown of how to tie a bow tie the correct way.
Start with the simplest part: the setup. Before you grab your tie, lift your collar to give yourself more room to work. Drape the bow tie around your neck, then adjust it so the end on your dominant hand side hangs about an inch and a half lower than the other side. This will be side A, and the shorter side will be side B. Make sure the tie is flat around your collar with the patterned side facing out.
Now it’s time to start the actual knot of the bow tie. Pull side A over side B. Make sure the narrow part of side A, known as the strap of the bow tie, crosses over the wider, rounded section of side B. The tie should overlap directly in front of the middle part of your neck, forming the neck loop.
Next, bring side A back and under the neck loop. Loop it up and over, then pull through and tighten the loop until it’s about a finger-width away from your neck. Tuck side A aside for now so you have room to work with side B.
With side A tucked aside, you can create your first bow loop with side B. Grab side B at its widest point and fold it over on itself. This will make a flat bow shape that should rest horizontally across the center of your neck. This is the foundation of your bow tie shape, so don’t be afraid to refold and readjust as needed. While you work, make sure the loop stays snug against your neck so that the tie doesn’t come loose.
Once you make your side B bow, you need to do the same with side A. Bring side A back down so it crosses over the bow you made with side B. It should lie flat against the middle of the bow with the patterned side facing out. Next, fold the end of side A to make another bow shape, just like you did with side B.
Make adjustments as needed but remember that it doesn’t have to look perfect—you’ll be able to adjust the bow at the end. Additionally, be sure to keep side B and the knot at your neck in place as you work with side A.
Your next step is to combine side A and side B by inserting the side A loop into the bow at your collar. Start by pinching the ends of side B together to give yourself more access to the knot at your neck. Next, gently thread the folded side of the side A loop through this knot. You should be pulling it through behind the side B loop.
Finish pulling side A through and smooth both ends of the bow tie. Make sure side A and side B align with each other to create your bow shape. The bow should lie flat against your collar.
You now have a bow tie shape. All that’s left to do is tighten it to secure the knot. If you need to adjust the bow or even out the sides, pull gently on the flat ends of the loops. Take time to check yourself in the mirror throughout the day to make sure your bow still looks good, and make adjustments as necessary.
Remember that your bow doesn’t have to be perfect. An imperfect or asymmetrical look is what gives a self-tie bow tie its character. Once you’re happy with your bow, fold your collar back down and get ready for a fun night out.
If you’re struggling to make your bow look right, double-check the size of your tie. You can measure your neck to find a bow tie that fits better if needed. There are also plenty of bow ties for sale that have sliders or other devices to adjust the length of the tie. Don’t be afraid to experiment so that you can find a tie that looks great, ties easily, and fits comfortably all day long.
Once you’re comfortable tying the standard bow tie, you can experiment with different bow tie shapes. Learn your way around the most common shapes, including the Butterfly, which is the standard shape that always looks good at formal events, and the Big Butterfly, which is a larger variation of the standard Butterfly that offers a charming and lighthearted look.
You can also choose the slim and straight Batwing bow tie for more casual occasions. Alternatively, experiment with the ends of your bow tie by creating the Rounded Club or the asymmetrical Diamond point.
Not comfortable with your tying skills yet? Don’t worry! Learning how to tie a bow tie the correct way takes practice. Confidence is key, so build up your skills by practicing. You can even practice by tying it around your thigh instead of your neck. This gives your arms a rest and gives you a clearer view of what you’re doing so you can master those skills faster. Be patient, keep trying, and soon you’ll be rocking that bow tie like a pro.
An endless world of style and charm awaits you once you master the art of tying a bow tie. With so many styles, colors, and patterns available, it’s easy to find a bow tie that lets your personality shine through. Explore beautiful colors and eye-catching floral patterns when you shop the bow ties available at DAZI today.
