The bowtie has long been a symbol of classic elegance, lending charm to outfits from formal events to casual gatherings. Whether you're dressing for a black-tie affair or a laid-back celebration, mastering how to style a bowtie can elevate your look to the next level. In this guide, we will walk through pairing the bowtie with different suits, shirts, and vests for various occasions, making sure you know exactly how to showcase this iconic accessory.
Formal Occasions: Black Tie and White Tie Events
At the most formal events, like black-tie or white-tie galas, nothing can replace the timeless appeal of the bowtie.
Black Tie Events
For black-tie affairs, the standard black bow tie is your go-to option. This is typically paired with a black suit or tuxedo, a crisp white dress shirt, and a black vest or cummerbund. For an extra touch of sophistication, a tie bar can be used to secure your look. Choose a sleek metal tie bar to complement the black bowtie and the overall minimalistic feel of the ensemble.
When learning how to tie a bow tie, it’s important to practice getting the knot symmetrical and snug against your collar. A perfectly tied bowtie not only looks sharp but also conveys confidence.
White Tie Events
White-tie events require an even more formal approach, where a white bowtie is the only acceptable choice. Pair it with a black tailcoat, white vest, and a white dress shirt. Make sure your bowtie is precisely tied and rests comfortably at the collar for an impeccable appearance.
Semi-Formal Occasions: Weddings and Cocktail Parties
For weddings, cocktail parties, and semi-formal events, the rules are more relaxed, giving you room to experiment with colors, patterns, and textures.
Weddings
Depending on the wedding theme, you can choose from classic bow ties or explore bolder options like floral prints, polka dots, or even velvet bowties. For example, a navy bowtie looks stunning with a grey suit and a pale blue or white dress shirt. If the wedding has a specific color scheme, coordinate your bowtie with other accessories, such as a pocket square or tiebar.
A three-piece suit with a vest adds an extra touch of class to wedding attire. For a rustic or outdoor wedding, you could opt for a textured bowtie made from wool or tweed paired with an earth-toned suit like brown or olive.
Cocktail Parties
Cocktail parties allow you to show more personality. A bowtie in bright hues or playful patterns, like checks or stripes, can stand out against a solid-colored suit. Pair a bold-colored bowtie with a light grey or navy suit to make it the centerpiece of your outfit. A tie bar can also add a modern edge, helping keep your ensemble looking polished and neat.
Business and Professional Settings
While bowties aren't as common in corporate environments, they are an excellent way to add a touch of personal style to your office wardrobe.
Conservative Business Attire
In conservative offices, stick to subtle bow ties in dark shades like navy, black, or burgundy. These can be worn with a dark suit, such as charcoal or navy, and a white or light-blue shirt. Keep patterns minimal, like small polka dots or stripes, to maintain professionalism.
Business Casual
For a more casual business setting, experiment with fun patterns or textured bow ties, such as linen or cotton. You can pair a patterned bowtie with a suit vest and dress pants to create a smart-casual look. A tie bar can also enhance your appearance, adding a professional yet stylish flair to your business attire.
Casual Outings: Parties and Social Gatherings
One of the great advantages of the bowtie is its versatility. You can easily wear one for casual outings or social gatherings and still look put-together.
Daytime Gatherings
For casual daytime events like brunch or a garden party, a colorful or patterned bowtie can bring life to your outfit. Pair it with a relaxed suit, such as a light blue or tan blazer, and a white or pastel shirt. A bowtie in gingham or paisley can lend a playful touch to an otherwise simple look. You could also ditch the tiebar for a more relaxed vibe.
Casual Evenings
In a casual evening setting, such as a dinner party or a night out with friends, a bowtie can add a quirky element to your ensemble. Try aslim-fitting suit in dark shades like black, navy, or burgundy and pair it with a fun, textured bowtie. This could be a velvet bowtie for added depth or a patterned option that complements your suit. You can also add a tie bar for a sleek finish.
Don't forget to use accessories like a tie bar to complete your look and make sure your bowtie stays in place.