How to tie a bow tie:

Traditional “Black tie” invitations call for a black bow tie, tuxedo and white dress shirt. Although the majority of bow ties sold in the US are the so-called pre-tied clip-on bow ties, many men prefer the traditional way to self tie their bow ties. At cheap-neckties we have detailed and easy to follow instructions on tying your bow tie:

Instructions for tying a bow tie

1. Just like when tying a necktie, flip up your collars and place the bow tie around your neck. Make sure to leave the left side hanging slightly longer then the right. Cross the left side of the bow tie over the left.
2. Then, wrap the longer side of the bow tie around the right side near your collar – just like you would do if tying a necktie with the Windsor knot.
3. Fold over the end of the other side of the bow so that it looks like a half bow.
4. Just like when tying you’re your shoes, wrap the other side of the bow tie around the folded piece of the bow tie.
5. Wrap this side back around, and behind the bow. Don’t pull it too tight, but leave a loop in front of the bow. The loop is needed for the last step
6. Pull the end through the loop on top of the bow, and tighten it slightly by pulling on each side. Adjust the bow, flip down your collars and center the bow. You are done!

Only few occasions will a year will call for a bow tie. Just like with other tie knots, learning how to tie a bow tie will take a little bit of practice. When wearing a bow tie, it is recommended to wear a pocket square, or hankie, in your breast pocket. Click here if you would like to learn how to fold a pocket square.