How to tie a bow tie

There comes a point in every man's life when a clip-on bow tie simply doesn't cut the mustard. But how does a modern day gent tie a professional, neat looking bow tie without running at least half an hour late for the smart occasion in question? We turned to quality shirt maker, Charles Tyrwhitt to help talk you through the process.




Make a knot

Firstly place one end over the other and form a knot, much as you would with a shoelace. In fact doing up a bow tie is very similar to tying up your shoes, something you mastered aged five or six, so it shouldn't be too difficult now.

The loop and pinch

Now for the difficult bit. At this point it's best to turn to the mirror, try to keep your eyes on the tie, this is no time to restyle your hair. Put you thumb at the bottom of the knot that you've just made, then loop and pinch the section on your chest. Next take the longer section on the shoulder and dangle it over the narrowest area of the tie.

The loop and poke

At this point, take the dangly bit on your chest, looping it under the tie and through the hole - again, it's very similar to a shoelace. Adjust until you are happy with the look.

What shirt to wear it with?

Bow ties can be worn on classic collared shirts or winged collared ones. Classic collars are traditionally British and tend to suit the slightly shorter and thicker neck. Wing collars are traditionally American and suit a slightly longer and thinner neck.

Now get out there and wear your bow tie with pride.

To read our review of Charles Tyrwhitt, click here

30 September 09