When Should You Wear A Bow Tie?

Many people think that bow ties are just for nerds and academics

. In fact the bow tie probably bears more resemblance to the earliest ties than the necktie does. Ties were brought to fashion prominence by the king of France during the mid 1600s. He so admired the ties worn by Croatian mercenaries in Paris, that he order the elite of Paris to wear ties to distinguish themselves from the masses.

Bow ties are always worn with formal evening wear. The popular names for men's evening attire, black tie and white tie, are taken from the color of the bow tie customarily worn with the suit. Black tie is less formal than white tie. In earlier times, black and white were the only acceptable colors for a tie.

The modern neck tie is a relatively recent incarnation of the tie. Bow ties were once the standard for day time men's wear. Bow ties did not always look like they do today. During history they alternately consisted of elaborate knots tied in a wide rectangle of white linen worn around the neck (the cravat), or a simple band of black fabric (the stock)wrapped around the neck. During the 19th century bow ties were often made of black ribbon tied in a bow with the ends allowed to fall down the shirtfront.

Unfortunately the art of tying a bow tie has been largely lost. Formal ties most often are pretied with a strap which fits around the neck and fastens under the bow. Ties that clip onto the shirt collar are most often worn with less formal clothes. There are excellent instructions for tying bow tie knots available online. There is even a video. The advantage of tying one's own tie is that it gives the individual control over the size of the bow and the knot. A properly tied bow tie is a wonderful addition to a man's wardrobe.

When choosing a bowtie for day time wear, stick with patterns or dark colors. Avoid black or white since these colors are associated with evening wear. Never wear a ready made bow tie. Ready made bow ties have too much symmetry. The bow tie doesn't have to be perfectly symmetrical, it looks better if it isn't too perfect. When a man ties his own bowtie, he has control over the size and shape ot the bow. While many men believe the bow tie to be passe, they are still quite popular in the American southeast where many men chose them over neckties. This may have to do with the climate and the fact that a bow tie can be worn more loosely around the neck than a regular neck tie without looking sloppy.

Bow ties are appropriate with both formal and casual business apparel. They add a touch of eccentricity and individuality to a business suit and look equally well with a vee neck sweater worn over a sports shirt.

Gentlemen should consider adding a few bow ties to their wardrobe. They garner more attention than the conventional neck tie and make a very individual statement. A bow tie can make a man memorable for his fashion flair.

by: Hendrik Pohl

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