Tired of wearing the same traditional necktie day after day? Well, why not switch up your routine with a bow tie? Men have been wearing bow ties for decades, with their popularity even surpassing traditional neckties at one point. While neckties are now the de-facto standard among most men, the bow tie is still a viable alternative that shouldn't be overlooked.
Self-Tie, Pre-Tied, or Clip-On
There are three different types of bow ties from which to choose: self-tie, pre-tied, and clip-on. Self-tied, as the name suggests, is the traditional bow tie in which the wearer is forced to tie it onto his shirt. Pre-tied bow ties feature a back that's already sewn into place, allowing the wearer to simply make a knot and call it a day. Last but not least, clip-on bow ties have a metallic clip that attached to the wearer's neck collar, eliminating the need to tie and untie it.
What Color Bow Tie Should I Choose?
Something else to consider when choosing a bow tie is the color. You'll find that bow ties are available in just about every color under the sun, including basic colors like white, black and navy, as well as other colors like maroon, turquoise, champagne, etc. So, which color bow tie should you choose? It really depends on the rest of your outfit, as your bow tie should flow cohesively with your other clothes. A good rule of thumb is to choose a color that contrasts with the color of your suit shirt. If you are wearing a white shirt, for instance, try wearing a black or navy bow tie.
Sporting a Bow Tie
One of the biggest mistakes guy makes when wearing a bow tie is putting it on crooked. If the bow tie tilts to either the left or right just slightly, it will create a messy, unflattering appearance. This is why it's important that you keep your bow tie flat, even, and symmetrical. If you need help tying it, don't be afraid to ask a friend or family member for assistance.
Solid Color or Print?
You don't have to limit your bow tie selection to strictly solid colors. While solid colors are generally the recommended choice for formal occasions, casual and semi-casual/formal occasions are suitable for print bow ties. For instance, a polk-dot or zebra print bow tie may work well for a traditional black-and-white suit. It's a simple yet fun way to spruce up your outfit.
