How to Tie a Bow Tie

Normally worn on formal occasions, such as weddings and other black tie events, the bow tie provides you with an elegant and stylish appearance.

Although tying a bow tie can seem a fairly daunting task if you have never done it before, it is fairly straightforward and just requires a little practice. The bow tie uses the same knot that is used when tying your shoes, so it is not as complex as most people think.

When tying a bow tie it is important to keep in mind that it should never be wider than the broadest part of your neck.

Once you have selected what bow tie you want to wear, stand in front of a mirror and follow our step by step guide below. Like with everything the more you practice the better you will get, so if it doesn’t feel or look right the first time you do it just start again.

How to tie a bow tie step by step guide:

1) Wrap your bow tie around your neck and under your collar, then extend the right end about 1.5 inches lower than the left end.

2) Cross the right end over the left end, while keeping your bow tie snug against your neck.

3) Lift the right end up through the loop, forming a loose knot.

4) Now double the left end of your bow tie over itself to make a loop. This will form the front loop of your finished tie.

5) Loop the right side of your tie over the front of the bow.

6) Double the right end the same way as you did the other side and pass it through the loop behind the tie. Remember to keep hold of everything when doing this, so nothing goes out of place.

7) Now straighten your bow tie to the centre, adjusting it if needed by pulling at the ends.