Bow ties are cool. With everyone from Doctor Who to James Bond sporting a bow tie at some point, their popularity has done anything but die down over the years. Being an essential under the black tie dress code and symbolising sophistication alongside a dapper sense of style, they are a crucial addition to every modern man’s wardrobe. Bow ties are interchangeable and with such an extensive range available, they are something you can have fun with. A real express yourself piece and as they have a small surface area you can afford to go bold with the design to really make a statement. There will always be people who see them as strictly formal attire but that doesn’t have to be the case. A range of different styles, colours, and themes, mean you can find a bow tie for every occasion. If you find it difficult to tie your bow tie then there is an equally extensive range in clip-on bow ties.

Bow Ties by Pattern

Bow Ties by Colour

Themed Bow Ties

Which way does a bow tie go?

There is no upside down for a bow tie, unless the bow tie has a specific pattern. Technically, if the label at the back is upside down then so is the tie but this makes no difference to the overall appearance. You can however have your bow tie inside out, which you would again notice by the label. That look is best avoided but the back of the tie and the label should be covered by your collar, saving you any embarrassment.

Why does my bow tie twist?

There is sometimes a twist with a bow tie but don’t let that alarm you. Not tying a bow tie too tight may help it to twist less, but overall this is part of the charm of a bow tie. One of the great things about bow ties is that they don’t need to be perfect, especially if you want people to know it is a self-tie and not a clip on or pre-tied.

FUN FACT: Why is a bow tie called a dickie?

The term dickie bow comes from Cockney rhyming slang and the term ‘dicky dirt’ for shirt. Simply enough, a bow tie worn on a shirt (or dicky) is then known as a dickie bow.