Let's try to forget about the tie for a while, what will we have left? The bow tie! Perhaps, when choosing an elegant suit, you were missing that little zest that you couldn’t find. Why not try a stylish accessory?
A man who wears a bowtie not only looks sophisticated, but also, without a doubt, will pass any dress code, even to a reception with the Queen. No kidding. In England, a so-called “White-tie” dress code is required, where a man must wear a tailcoat with a white bow tie in order to receive a reception from the Queen of Great Britain.
However, a man who decides to wear a bow tie in ordinary, everyday life must be prepared for increased attention from others. In our offices it is customary to wear ties, but a bow tie is already exotic. You will have to step out of your comfort zone and show a little courage, then you will definitely produce the desired effect.
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We present to you a guide to today’s fashionable accessory, where we will tell not only the history, but also the varieties of such an interesting men’s accessory.
When did the bow tie appear?
The history of the butterfly began approximately in the 17th century in Croatia, where this accessory was worn by military men or mercenaries. In its original form, the bowtie looked like a tie and was tied over the collar like a tie. We can say that a bow tie and a tie have common roots.
At one of the receptions of the French king, the upper classes highly appreciated the Croatian accessory and gladly adopted this idea, especially since the French were “ahead of the rest” in the field of fashion in those days. Thus, since then, two men's accessories have appeared: a tie and a bow tie. The latter were an integral part of the dress code or formal dress code at the turn of the century. By the beginning of the 20th century, the bow tie had become one of the main men's accessories, worn by all classes of the time. While the bow tie fell out of everyday fashion after World War II, it has nevertheless remained a familiar addition to formal dress codes to this day.
The last 3-5 years can be considered a bright moment in the history of the bow tie. Among the youth of the West, Russia and the CIS countries, he began to regain his former popularity. Even women, no, no, even appear with a stylish accessory. Today you can meet people who wear a bow tie to work, to a cocktail party, and even to a casual meeting with friends.
Button down collar
This type of collar is typical for casual shirts - for example, checkered flannel, as well as for “work” shirts. It is universal, suits everyone and does not oblige anyone.
A button-down collar does not require a tie.
Bill Gates. Founder of Microsoft. Photo: https://ilmuit.maniaxpc.com/
What's the difference between Self-Tie, Pre-Tied and Clip-On bow ties?
There are several types of bow tie fastenings and clasps. Let's list them:
The Self-Tie Bow Tie
The Self-Tie Bow Tie
The classic type of bow tie is a simple ribbon of fabric with a slight thickening at the edges, which you need to tie yourself. In the West it is also called “freestyle”, i.e. "free". As a rule, a bow tie knitted by hand, without any tools, has the greatest charm and personality.
In addition, at the end of the evening, gentlemen sometimes untie the bow tie and simply hang it around their neck, it looks very cool. This is what they do in the movies, for example, actor George Clooney or Pierce Brosnan, you can watch it at your leisure. But first, I advise you to practice tying a bow tie beautifully. To learn how to tie a men's accessory, look at this diagram.
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The Pre-Tied Bow Tie
The Pre-Tied Bow Tie
The next type is the pre-tied bow tie. As the name suggests, the bowtie is already tied for you. The size can be easily adjusted to your neck and fastened to the collar in a few seconds. Disadvantages of a pre-tied bow tie include the knot and aspect ratio being too perfect.
Any man who is more or less knowledgeable about butterflies can easily distinguish a butterfly pre-tied at a factory from one that was tied independently. However, if you do not want to be known as a fashion expert and a dandy at a party, this bow tie option is always suitable for a beginner.
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The Clip-On Bow Tie
The Clip-On Bow Tie
The third type of bow tie attachment is called “clip-on”, or Clip-On in English. This butterfly is already knitted at the factory, but instead of a long ribbon that wraps around the neck, a metal clasp with hooks is used on the collar section. This type of bowtie is usually worn by small children.
Size
the tie should match the physique of its owner: broad-shouldered men should opt for a wider tie, and thin men should opt for a narrower one. In addition, the width of the tie should match the width of the lapel of the jacket. A classic tie should end at the level of the trouser belt buckle and be wide enough.
The butterfly also needs to be chosen according to its width: its edges should not extend beyond the boundaries of the face and it should not be wider than the collar of the shirt. If the collar of the shirt is long and has straight ends, the bow tie should be large, but if the collar is soft, semi-turned down, the tie should be medium in size.
How to choose a bow tie for yourself?
Determining the size of a bow tie is easy. The fact is that self-tied butterflies are made almost the same size, to fit any neck. If we are talking about pre-tied bow ties, then they can easily be adjusted in length using sliders or hooks on the ribbon.
To easily adjust the size to suit you, take any thread or ribbon and wrap it once around your neck. Make exactly the same distance on your butterfly, adjusting it as needed. The average length of a butterfly strap is 37 – 44.5 cm. Try putting the butterfly under your collar and fastening it. The butterfly should not choke you, but it should not fall in all directions either. Find the “sweet spot” by slightly increasing or decreasing the length of the butterfly.
Material
Ties are made from silk, jacquard, satin, wool, and sometimes from cotton, tweed, viscose, linen, even cashmere. There are also original knitted models that fit well into casual styles and go well with jeans.
Butterflies are most often sewn from taffeta, brocade, and jacquard. But sometimes you come across completely unexpected and therefore interesting solutions - for example, wooden or plastic bow ties, which are now in increasing demand.
And yet, when is it better to wear a bow tie?
Now that you have chosen your best bow tie, the question will arise: - “When can I wear it and for what?”, “What to wear with a bow tie?”, “What color should the bow tie be?” and so on. Let's figure it out.
Bow tie and formal dress code
Bow tie and formal dress code
One of the most common occasions when you can see men wearing a bow tie is a formal event. The most famous dress code is the so-called “Black Tie”. This definition fits: a black tuxedo, a white shirt and a black bow tie. In addition, you must wear a vest or a special belt called a “cummerbund”.
Another type of dress code is “White Tie”. We can say that the expression “in full dress” is suitable for this dress code, since it is the most formal and strict dress code. So, you will need: a white self-knitted bow tie (only this type, no fasteners), a black tailcoat and a white shirt. This is not a very common dress code, but it does exist and you need to be aware of it.
Semi-formal dress code and bow tie
A semi-formal dress code does not have such strict rules as a formal one, so there is room for experimentation. Try experimenting with different colored bow ties, different patterns and prints. A bow tie made of tweed or velor will add positivity to your look and emphasize your individuality.
Keep in mind that some may not appreciate you in a classic business suit with a polka dot bow tie, however, even this look can be suitable for business. To enhance your style, accessorize with a pocket square. Rest assured, you will create a “Wow” effect in any setting and surrounding people.
Casual wear and bow tie
There are no boundaries or rules for casual style. This is where you can definitely go wild with your look and choose a bow tie to match it. Want to wear a plaid men's accessory with a colorful shirt and cardigan? No problem! Do you want to wear a flowered bow tie, with monograms or Turkish cucumbers under a summer linen suit? It is possible and even necessary! It's even better if you buy a bow tie made of wool, cotton or linen. You can support the casual look with various accessories, such as suspenders, colored socks, bright laces.
Have you ever seen a bow tie made of wood? Now they are at the peak of popularity among stylish young people.
Wooden bow tie with brown polka dot scarf for jacket
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The latest advice from fashion experts
If choosing a tie causes you concerns and difficulties, do not invent a complex look, choose the simplest possible set. This solution is suitable for men who are financially strapped and do not like to waste time aimlessly in stores.
Basic wardrobe that will not cause difficulties:
- blue or brown suit;
- blue and pink shirts;
- 3-4 ties, preferably in bright colors;
- several pocket squares.
With such a basic wardrobe, you can create up to ten fashionable looks.
Photo gallery
A bow tie is common as an element of a man's wardrobe, but more and more often you can see this accessory on girls. Moreover, this is becoming a fashion trend.
The butterfly can be in a ready-made version, that is, a bow with a knot that is attached to an elastic band. It can also be a simple tie, the ends of which are tied into a bow.
The women's bow tie has recently been borrowed from the arsenal of men's clothing. Representatives of the stronger half of humanity wear this accessory on special occasions or as part of their uniform. Women's fashion is more liberal in this regard. Since modern trends allow girls to wear a bow tie with anything. These can be a wide variety of business suits, romantic looks, as well as everyday silhouettes that will help emphasize originality.
Undoubtedly, the ideal option is a butterfly, which requires tying yourself with a special knot, unlike a finished product with an elastic band. A self-knitting butterfly will help emphasize your sense of style and pay tribute to the authenticity of style.
This accessory has undergone a stylish transformation. Now he decorates not only formal shirts, but also delicate blouses and even.
As a rule, the butterfly is made of silk. But for more daring representatives of the fair sex, there are options made of leather. A woman's bow tie is a very striking wardrobe detail. Every girl can transform any outfit thanks to this accessory. This fashionable product can brighten up even the most boring look.
An evening look with a black bow tie in combination with a white blouse, a dark blue jacket, a black mini skirt, a light yellow clutch and black and blue high-heeled sandals.
The original version of a black bowtie for girls will look great with a white blouse, classic-style black trousers and black low-top shoes.
A fashionable black bow tie will complement the look well in combination with a white blouse, a dark blue jacket, black shorts, a light yellow clutch and black heeled sandals.
A stylish look with a black bow tie for a girl in combination with a peach blouse, a midnight blue knee-length skirt and classic beige shoes.
A black bow tie for girls will be ideally combined with a white blouse, light blue jeans, a short leather jacket in a light brown shade, a large black bag and black low-top loafers.
An elegant look with a black bowtie combined with a white dress with black inserts, knee-length, a black handbag and classic black high-heeled shoes.
Typically, a bow tie is attached to the collar of a shirt and tied with a special knot. Products with a knot already tied are also produced, with various coupling options. Arrow butterflies are very relevant, due to the presence of a sharp end, like on a regular tie, on one side of the bow.
Fashionable colors of butterflies for girls
The colors of butterflies for girls can be very diverse. At the peak of popularity, a tie with white polka dots against a background of any color. Leopard prints, floral prints, as well as all kinds of patterns on the butterfly are in fashion.
Butterflies in bright colors are part of youth style. They are appropriate for parties and meetings with friends.
A blue butterfly will complement the look well in combination with a white blouse, classic black trousers, a long dark blue jacket decorated with sequins, and white stilettos.
A milky satin butterfly for girls will look perfect with a light brown blouse, a black pleated skirt, a beige handbag and pale peach high-heeled shoes.
A black bow tie will be a great addition to a strict office style. A green butterfly looks very original and stylish. Along with the traditional black tie, a red bow tie looks very conservative.
In the trend are butterflies with checkered and checkerboard prints; very young girls can wear trendy butterflies with a cartoon pattern. A stylish white bow tie on a black background looks great.
A stylish blue bow tie for girls will perfectly complement a casual look in combination with a blue sleeveless shirt, cropped black trousers, a bright blue handbag and black shoes with low heels.
An elegant look with a black bowtie combined with a white blouse, a black pencil skirt above the knees and multi-colored high platform sandals.
A fashionable dark purple bow tie will look perfect with a white blouse with red polka dots, short dark blue jeans, a red handbag and white platform sandals.
A dark green butterfly for a girl will complement the look well in combination with a dark blue shirt, a black trouser suit, a black and red handbag and black low-top shoes.
An ultra-fashionable version of a white bow tie for girls will look great with a blue blouse with white polka dots, dark blue jeans, a light brown clutch and caramel-colored loafers with low heels.
An original dark blue bowtie for girls will go perfectly with a white blouse, midnight blue oval trousers and black high-heeled ankle boots.
A plain butterfly, decorated with an original pin or small brooch, will add luxury and splendor to your look. Another fashionable trend is a butterfly, located not strictly in the middle, but slightly to one side.
What to wear with a butterfly for a girl
To create a harmonious look, you need to know how to wear a bow tie. The main attention should be paid to the color of clothes. This bright accessory cannot be combined with pretentious and colorful colors of the suit. This may overload the image.
The butterfly harmonizes perfectly with a strict trouser or skirt set. A tie looks good with a shirt, over which a formal sweater with a deep semicircular or V-shaped neckline is worn.
A bow tie for girls in a dark blue color will perfectly complement the look in combination with a white shirt, a chiffon skirt in white and green, a long deep pink cardigan and open black heels.
An elegant black bow tie for a girl will look great with a white shirt, a classic black jacket, a black mini skirt and low-cut silver shoes.
A classic black bow tie for girls will go well with a white shirt, skinny dark blue jeans, a short black leather jacket and low-top black ankle boots.
Casual look with a bow tie
A light everyday look will help you create a combination: a bright-colored tie, white, original shorts or sneakers. Ensembles with sundresses or various T-shirts are also possible, if you complement them with a bright bow tie with a fancy print.
An original black bowtie for an everyday look in combination with a milky blouse, a short black skirt, a dark plum leather jacket, a black handbag and burgundy high-heeled shoes.
A trendy black bowtie in a casual style looks good with a bright red mini skirt, a white blouse, a gold-tone clutch and low-cut leopard-print loafers.
A casual look with a black bow tie in combination with a white sleeveless shirt, a short blue-brown checkered skirt and light blue ankle boots with high, stable heels.
An elegant black bow tie for girls will ideally complement a casual look in combination with a dark brown jacket, dark emerald trousers, a brown handbag and light brown shoes with wide heels.
Office style butterfly
To embody a business style, a bow tie can be combined with original flared trousers and a vest. It is recommended to choose a medium-sized tie, plain, preferably black, for an office ensemble. This will help give the image solidity and reliability.
A classic black butterfly for an office look will look great with a black pencil skirt, a white sleeveless blouse and classic black mid-heeled shoes.
A fashionable black bowtie in office style goes well with a white shirt, a black pencil skirt, a demi-season burgundy coat that is above the knees, a brown clutch and low-top black patent leather shoes.
A black bow tie for an office look will be ideally combined with a black trouser suit, a classic white shirt and black mid-heeled shoes.
Collar Tab
A collar that has a rather complex design, referring to the clothing of European clergy and the stand-up collar: its ends are adjacent to the ribbon due to their connection with a special fabric buckle under the tie. The ends of the collar are fastened with buttons or buttons. Today it is considered somewhat old-fashioned.
With such a collar it is better to use small tie knots.
Rod Serling. Screenwriter, actor, writer, producer
