Bow Tie or Necktie: Which One Should You Choose?
After you’ve decided on a tuxedo or suit, it’s time to choose your ultimate accessory: the tie. Believe it or not, your choice of neckwear can make or break your outfit, which is why deciding between a bow tie and a necktie isn’t always easy. What is better for you: a bow tie or a necktie? Not sure where to begin? Here are some questions to help you determine what is best for you.
What’s the dress code?
The answer to this question may make the decision easier. You will most likely be wearing a tuxedo to a black-tie event. In that scenario, stick to a Bow Tie. If the occasion is less formal (semi-formal, cocktail, etc.), you can wear either a bow or a necktie.
What kind of shirt do you have on?
Your shirt style will also help you choose the proper tie. If your shirt has a bib or a wing tip collar, you must wear a bow tie. You can wear a bow tie or a necktie with a wide collar shirt.
Do you have a cummerbund on?
If so, a bow tie is the way to go. Choosing a necktie with a cummerbund may result in a sloppy appearance. Your tie may become entangled in the cummerbund or may simply sit strangely in front of it.
Do you wish to be noticed?
Whether you’re the groom or a guest, wearing a bow tie will make you stand out from the crowd because most men seem to prefer wearing a necktie. For the groom, Keith Phillips of Classic Photographers always advises bow ties because it’s such a significant occasion. “Your wedding day is one of the most important days of your life, and your clothes should represent that,” he advises. “Your wedding should be unique because you probably won’t wear a bow tie for other occasions in your life.”
What color/pattern are you going with?
The color scheme will influence the neckwear chosen, especially if the groom prefers a bold pattern. While a necktie can be formal or casual in a variety of ways, the pattern on a bow tie can be distracting in wedding photos, according to Dwight Zahringer of Pure Cabo.
Is it in keeping with your personal style?
If you truly don’t have a preference, Alexis Alvarez of Lillian Rose Events recommends taking a close look at your physical attributes while wearing both options. Long beards, for example, can either look strange with a bow tie or be completely concealed.
Which do you feel more at ease in?
Because this is a special occasion, you want to look and feel your best throughout the day. Keeping this in mind, you should select neckwear that is most comfortable for you.
Can you tie a bow tie?
You should always dress to impress, especially when attending a special event. Can you tie a bow tie? If you’re not sure how to do it, ask a friend or family member (or even the event planner, if there is one) for assistance. Still not sure? No problem, Modelchic has bow ties that are a step above the standard clip-on. Our bow tie looks like it’s tied around the neck, but it slips on in a flash thanks to an easy loop at the back of the pre-tied bow tie.
The Last Wise Words
Now that you’ve decided whether to wear a necktie or a bow tie, put together your suit or tuxedo and choose the best color tie and accessories for the perfect look!