Bow Ties and Fashion

The bowtie is like virtually no other item of clothing.   Wear a bow tie and you will invariably receive a reaction of one kind or another.

The reason for this is not difficult to understand.  The bow tie sits squarely in front of the body and just below the face.  As a fashion item it is just about as prominent as it can be - which makes for a glorious opportunity to stand out from the crowd.

With such potential it is not surprising that the popularity of the bow tie has risen enormously in little over a generation.  Once worn only by older men and considered to be “stuffy” and seldom worn on anything other than the most formal of occasions, it has been adopted by younger men and is seen by many to be trendy.

It used to have a hint of the intellectual and was associated with the more traditional professions, such as lawyers and doctors.  It had connotations of independence, worn by people who cared little what others thought about their choice of attire.

However a younger generation might well recognised this caricature, but it would not be their immediate associations.  Nowadays it is as likely to be regarded as modern and fun.

Bow Tie Shapes

There are two basic shapes of bow tie - the batwing and the thistle or butterfly bow tie.  The butterfly bowtie cam be either a standard or diamond point variety.

The batwing bowtie has straight edges on both sides at both ends of the tie.   The butterfly bow tie has a curved outline on both sides of both ends of the tie – wth the standard variety having a flat end and the diamond shape having a pointed end .

When worn the batwing bow tie has straight edges either side of the central knot And the butterfly variety has a more curved edge line – the diamond having a pointed outer end.

Colors and Patterns

Nowadays bow ties can be bought in just about any color imaginable.  A plain black bow tie remains the most popular and is the color of choice for all occasions and in particular formal evening events with silver as an acceptable alternative.

Other popular bow tie colors tend to be bright – so bright pink, green, yellow and so on.   These are often chosen for the more joyful events such as weddings and anniversaries.

Patterned bowties with perhaps a stripe or paisley pattern are worn for less formal occasions – whereas a polka dot bow tie can be a fun thing to wear for a light hearted corporate Christmas gathering.

Bow Tie Fabrics

Bow ties are made from much the same materials as used to make neckties.

The most popular material is silk.   It is a little more expensive than most other materials and has a nicer feel than synthetic fabrics.   However with progress in synthetic textiles in recent years, there may be little difference in appearance.

Other popular materials are wool, polyester and cotton.  Polyester is perhaps the least expensive material commonly used.   They are more easily cleaned than other materials – being machine washable, but a silk tie often looks that little bit better.

Pre-Tied or Not

Bow ties may appear to be difficult to tie  - until you have done it a few times, when it becomes easy and quick.  However if you do not wear a bow tie with any regularity, then you may prefer to buy one that is pre-tied.

There are two types.  Firstly those with a simple strap and a hook that goes around the neck to attach to a loop behind the knot.  Secondly there are those that have a clip that attaches to the shirt collar.

Whichever type, color or style of bowtie you choose, you can be sure of one thing.   With a bowtie you will in tune with the latest fashions, and if ou have chosen a black bowtie it will suit all occasions.