How to Tie a Bow Tie

“Anything worth having in life is worth the struggle.”
- Unknown Man, regarding the self-tie bow tie

The bow tie can trace its origins back to the 17th century and the Thirty Year’s War. The now popular men’s accessory originated among Croatian mercenaries who used scarves around their necks to hold together the opening of their shirts. The look eventually made it's way to France and by the 1700s, the necktie became a primary feature in men’s fashion.

Oddly enough, despite the accessory’s enduring history, most of the men we encounter in our shop struggle to tie a bow tie unassisted. Many customers, especially our grooms, will opt instead to shop from our pre-tied bow tie collection, and there is no shame in that route, gentlemen. BUT, if you’re preparing for your wedding day or a black tie event, if you’re looking for that extra touch of polish, if you want that effortlessly cool loose tails on the dance floor vibe, then you’ve come to the right place.

Follow the steps below and learn how to tie a self tie bow tie.

Be patient. Be kind to yourself. We believe in you, gentlemen.

Step #1 - Know your neck size and adjust the band accordingly.

Step #2 - Ensure the tails of the bow tie are the same length when laying on your chest.

Step #3 - Cross the left tail over the right and under - like your shoelaces. Reverse this order if you’re left handed. Make sure the knot you’ve made is nice and snug against your throat - the quality of your finished tie starts here.

Step #4 - Fold the right tail in half to make what we’ll call a “half-bow". It should look like one side of a finished present bow.

Step #5 - Guide the left tail behind your half-bow and then over the center. This creates the beginning of your center knot. Hold it firmly in place.

DISCLAIMER - this is where things get tricky. Watch the video and give this a few tries!

Step #6 - While folding the half-bow forward at the center, work your left thumb through the knot at the back, and pull the free tail down to tighten your work.

Step #7 - Now fold the free tail in half to make the other end of the bow. Pull the bow through the hole your thumb made.

Step #8 - Pull down your collar. Fiddle and adjust.

Step #9 - Be endlessly impressive to all of the men and women around you 😉

How’d it go? Tell us all about it! Or better yet, snap a photo and tag @onoreclothing on IG so we can brag and show off our oh-so capable customers.

Still in need of some help for your special day? Learn more about our wedding services. A bow tie is just one piece of your big day’s puzzle.