How to choose the right bow tie for a wedding? - knowblog

Thursday, June 26, 2025

How to choose the right bow tie for a wedding?

The bow tie is arguably one of the most controversial men's fashion accessories. Sometimes it's considered outdated, sometimes it's considered the latest trend. In recent years, it's made a comeback thanks to the hipster wave, celebrities like singer Stromae, and Instagrammers with big beards.



Although it has often been associated with a certain class (wealthy and bourgeois), it has now become more democratic, and it is no longer surprising to see it in the wardrobes of all men. Indeed, if it is not worn during an official ceremony, such as a gala or other social events, the bow tie is simply an alternative to the tie during weddings. From the groom himself, to the groomsmen and guests, we do not hesitate to swap the tie of the week for an accessory with less "professional" connotations.

However, the bow tie is scary! Men will ask themselves a whole bunch of questions like "how am I going to tie it?", "Doesn't it look too much?" or even "isn't it too big?". As we are heading straight into the wedding season, we will try to provide answers to these different questions. To do this, we will briefly discuss the different facets of the bow tie before suggesting three types of bow tie that you could adopt for a wedding or other celebration.

A thousand and one bow ties

While we're all familiar with the traditional black silk bow tie designed by James Bond, it's important to remember that this accessory has many facets. Bow tie designers are inventive and don't hesitate to innovate in terms of:

  • Material: Today, we find bow ties made of wood, feathers, wool, etc.

  • Shape: from the paddle (flat ends) to the butterfly (pointed ends), there is something for everyone.

  • Size: some like them wide, others rather discreet

  • Style: tied or pre-tied; while the former looks more authentic, the latter has the advantage of being simple and adapting to all neck sizes.

With this variety of bows, you then have to ask yourself which one is best suited for the type of wedding you are going to attend.

Break the conventions with the bow tie… in silk

We're seeing more and more celebration themes popping up on Pinterest and Instagram that are as original as they are unconventional. Rustic weddings, retro weddings, or even more offbeat, "casual chic" weddings: these couples have decided to go against the grain of the traditional "all-white-wedding" theme.

If you're invited to this type of event, wear a black silk bow tie with a more rock 'n' roll outfit like a leather jacket and black pants. To emphasize your unconventional side, your shirt can be a bright color or simply white. As you can see, here, silk, a rather noble fabric, balances out leather, a fabric associated with rebels.

Show your confidence with a colorful bow tie

If you're comfortable wearing a bow tie and rocking it like a boss, then it's time to add some color to your wedding. Fabrics like Antilles madras or African wax print are perfect for this. You'll sport a unique and chic bow tie that your guests won't fail to notice.

Play it classic with a cotton bow

If you're attending a summer wedding, chances are you'll be spending a lot of time outdoors. A cotton bow tie is a must-have. Fresh and elegant, it pairs perfectly with linen or chambray. Plus, your neck will appreciate this lightweight and comfortable material.


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