How do I tie a bow tie?

If you’re wearing a self-tie bow tie, it’s important to practice before the day of the wedding. With a little practice you can get the hang of it, but it’s often not going to look its best on your first try so advanced planning is advised. There are plenty of YouTube videos and step-by-step guides available online, but first you’ll need to know what style of knot to tie . “Practice makes progress, not perfection,” reminds Moy. “But that's okay because a bow tie's charm is in its slight imperfections. A touch of asymmetry shows that you're rocking the real deal and not a pre-tied imitation although it's not the worst thing in the world to rock a pre-tied bow tie. Most people won't notice.”

Which dress codes require a bow tie?

Bow ties are not a fit for every occasion and are typically reserved for formal occasions, though you may find more colorful, casual bow ties paired with a colorful button-up for a garden party or outdoor fete. The best indicator for whether a bow tie is required will be the dress code that is printed on the invitation or wedding website. “Any event that requires a tuxedo or dinner jacket will also require a bow tie,” explains Moy. “Black-tie and Creative Black Tie are two prime examples of dress codes where you should expect to wear a bow tie.” Now if those aren’t the dress codes for the wedding you’re attending, that doesn’t mean you need to scrap your plan of wearing a bow tie all together. “ Black-Tie Optional means that you can eschew the tux in favor of a dark business suit and conservative neck tie,” says Moy. “If you choose to go with the suit, definitely don't wear a bow tie. In this dress code, you're either all in with the tuxedo or not at all. No half-stepping!” And if you’re attending a destination wedding, make sure to do your research on what the dress code protocol is in the country you’re visiting.

The 25 Best Wedding Bow Ties of 2023

Bow ties are known for being the go-to accessory for formal occasions. But bow ties aren’t just for James Bond and celebrities on the red carpet. And if you’re attending a black-tie wedding, a bow tie is a must.

An integral part of a black-tie outfit, the bow tie completes any formal tuxedo ensemble. This neckpiece is such a monumental part of the final look that photographers include it in their detail shots. Even tying the bow tie is a special moment that often warrants being included in the getting ready portion of your wedding photo gallery.

With so many bow ties on the market, a lot of the choices between what style you choose (butterfly or batwing) to whether you go for a self-tie or pre-tied design comes down to personal preference. Whether bow ties are part of your regular personal style or you’re looking to get your very first one because it’s required for an upcoming wedding, we’ve selected our favorite bow ties for every occasion to make your choice much easier.

Our Top Picks

Best for Fall:

Tie Bar Grosgrain Solid Wine Bow Tie at Thetiebar.com

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Best for a Formal Wedding:

Brooks Brothers Formal Bow Tie at Brooksbrothers.com

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Best Artistic:

Ties.com Fluid Paints Gold Self-Tie Bow Tie at Ties.com

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Best Pre-Tied:

Ties.com Black Pre-Tied Bow Tie at Ties.com

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Best Luxe:

Otaa Champagne Gold Metallic Weave Bow Tie at Otaa.com

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Best Statement:

Charvet Neat Square Silk Bow Tie at Saks Fifth Avenue

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Most Dapper:

Brooks Brothers Butterfly Bow Tie at Brooksbrothers.com

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Best Elegant:

Emporio Armani Silk Bow Tie at Saks Fifth Avenue

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Best for a New Year's Eve Wedding:

Tom Ford Grosgrain Pre-Tied Evening Bowtie at Neiman Marcus

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Best Diamond Point:

J.Crew English Satin Point Bow Tie at Jcrew.com

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In This Article

Our Picks
What to Look For
FAQ
Why Trust Brides

Tie Bar

View On Thetiebar.com

We love the rich wine hue of this bow tie for a fall color palette or autumnal wedding celebration at a vineyard. Not feeling the color? The Tie Bar silk bow tie comes in 39 color variations so you can choose your favorite or find one to match the wedding’s assigned color scheme. Better yet, you can even select your preference of pre-tied or self-tie as both are available.

Price at the time of publish: $24

Tie: Pre-tied or Self-tie | Material: Woven silk | Colors: 39

Brooks Brothers

View On Brooksbrothers.com

Just as the name implies, this bow tie is made for a formal occasion. Its crisp, clean white cotton pique is woven in Italy and is the picture of elegance. Commonly reserved for formal galas with a white tie dress code, this white bow tie can also work for formal events where a color has not been specifically assigned.

Price at the time of publish: $99

Tie: Self-tie | Material: Cotton | Colors: White

Ties.com

View On Ties.com

Wearing this self-tie bow tie around your neck is like displaying a painting in a gallery, it’s a work of art. Rich hues of red, blue, gold and silver swirl to create a modern design fit for the MOMA. Guests will be complimenting you all night on this statement bow tie.

Price at the time of publish: $39

Tie: Self-tie | Material: Microfiber | Colors: Red, Gold, Purple

Ties.com

View On Ties.com

Does it get any easier than a pre-tied bow tie? Just hook it around your neck and you’re ready to go. This pre-tied design from Tie Bar is the best solution for someone who has never tied a bow tie (and would most likely wait until the day of the wedding to practice tying one for the first time). If bow ties aren’t your thing, you can’t go wrong with a classic black pre-tied style that you can keep on hand just in case you find yourself invited to another black-tie event in the future.

Price at the time of publish: $39

Tie: Pre-tied | Material: Silk | Colors: 21

Otaa

View On Otaa.com

Rustic earth tones meet shine with this champagne bow tie. The gold tint flecked throughout will make you feel like a million bucks without looking flashy. Elegance at its finest, the champagne and gold combination is still neutral enough to be paired with a wide color palette of formal attire.

Price at the time of publish: $40

Tie: Pre-tied | Material: Microfiber | Colors: Champagne

Saks Fifth Avenue

View On Saks Fifth Avenue

Whether you're sticking to neutral tones or planning to don a brightly colored shirt, this patterned bow tie is a statement-making finish. The scattered squares feel unique without entering into gaudy territory.

Price at the time of publish: $235

Tie: Pre-tied | Material: Silk | Colors: Gray

Brooks Brothers

View On Brooksbrothers.com

You’ll give off a sophisticated air in this 100 percent silk bow tie. Made in Italy, the luxurious design is perfect for pairing with your tuxedo to feel like a suave fashion model straight out of a magazine shoot.

Price at the time of publish: $99

Tie: Pre-tied | Material: Silk | Colors: Black

Saks Fifth Avenue

View On Saks Fifth Avenue

You can't go wrong with this Emporio Armani bow tie for a wedding. Whether you opt for the black or the silver, the lustrous silk fabric exudes elegance and is fit for your next formal occasion.

Price at the time of publish: $125

Tie: Self-tie | Material: Silk | Colors: Black, Silver

Neiman Marcus

View On Neiman Marcus View On Bergdorfgoodman.com

Ring in the New Year in style with the help of this Tom Ford classic grosgrain bow tie. Whether you attend a New Year’s eve wedding or are celebrating the ball drop at a formal party, this small bow tie will make a big statement.

Price at the time of publish: $270

Tie: Pre-tied | Material: Silk | Colors: Black

J.Crew

View On Jcrew.com

Channel an English look when you wear this point bow tie in silk satin. Although the idea of a black tie for a garden wedding may not seem like the color at first glance, its diamond point style will elevate your formal look apart from the classic butterfly tie.

Price at time of publish: $55

Tie: Self-tie | Material: English silk satin | Colors: Black, White

Tie Bar

View On Thetiebar.com

Not only are these bow ties from Mumu Weddings available in a wide array of light colors ideal for spring, the subtle stripe pattern is a subtle nod to spring botanical inspiration and gives the tie some dimension.

Price at the time of publish: $24

Tie: Self-tie | Material: Woven silk | Colors: 20

Otaa

View On Otaa.com

If the thought of a nautical tie elicits visions of anchors and sailboats, think again. The sharp contrast of the yellow stripes against the deep navy tie create a colorscape you’d see upon boarding a ship, making this a great bow tie if you’re having a wedding at sea or at a yacht club.

Price at the time of publish: $40

Tie: Self-tie | Material: Microfiber | Colors: Navy with yellow stripes

Jos. A. Bank

View On Josbank.com

For the bow tie wearers who aren't afraid to stray away from black for the summer, we’re big fans of this champagne shade for a summer formalwear look. Love the design but not the color? This Jos.A.Bank bow tie is also available in dark green, dark navy, dark pink, light pink, and wine.

Price at the time of publish: $60

Tie: Pre-tied | Material: Silk | Colors: 6

Otaa

View On Otaa.com

Game of Thrones fans, this bow tie named after the iconic Jon Snow is an excellent accessory to pair with a boho suit in a rustic color palette like burnt orange or dark green. The handknit design gives it character and will have all eyes on you and your excellent sense of style.

Price at the time of publish: $45

Tie: Pre-tied | Material: Microfiber | Care: White with black

Neiman Marcus

View On Neiman Marcus

Tom Ford, a respected designer in the luxury formalwear industry, is who we trust for black-tie attire and accessories. It doesn’t get any more classic than a black satin bow tie. You can feel confident that this bow tie will last you for a lifetime of elegant events.

Price at the time of publish: $260

Tie: Pre-tied | Material: Silk | Color: Black

Paul Smith

View On Paulsmith.com

Often associated with winter, the velvet material of this tie gives a warm, elegant feel to any velvet tuxedo set. This Paul Smith bow tie is shipped in a black gift box, so it’s already packaged as an excellent gift to present to your wedding party as a thanks for standing by your side. Add a bit of color to your winter wedding by choosing this velvet beauty in blue or mauve instead of the traditional black.

Price at the time of publish: $150

Tie: Self-tie | Material: Velvet | Colors: Black, Blue, Mauve

Ties.com

View On Ties.com

We’re not talking theme like boho or garden, we’re talking novelty theme like details inspired by your favorite movie, hobbies, or interests as a couple. If you’re looking to have fun with planning all the subtle details that pay homage to the theme, then a bow tie is a great way to incorporate the theme in a fashion statement. We love this lobster tie for a Maine celebration or a beachside clambake wedding.

Price at the time of publish: $70

Tie: Self-Tie | Material: Silk | Colors: Mutli

Otaa

View On Otaa.com

When you want a pop of color, a solid colorful bow tie will stand out enough to make a statement without detracting from your wedding look the way a patterned tie would. We love this apricot peach hue that will pop against a gray suit without being too loud.

Price at the time of publish: $45

Tie: Pre-tied | Material: Linen | Colors: Peach

Otaa

View On Otaa.com

Pull off a bow tie as part of a relaxed look with the help of this lightweight linen tie from Otaa. The khaki look keeps it casual, but the diamond edges elevate the bow tie for a more formal occasion whether you’re outdoors at a country club or a backyard wedding.

Price at the time of publish: $45

Tie: Self-tied | Material: Linen | Colors: Khaki

Birdy Grey

View On Birdygrey.com

Planning to provide your wedding party with their bow tie as a gift on the wedding day? These Birdy Grey bow ties come in over 30 colors to match your tuxedo or wedding color palette. As an added bonus, if the bridesmaids are wearing dresses from Birdy Grey, then you’re guaranteed that the bow ties will match perfectly for a cohesive wedding look. Plus they are less than $20 each.

Price at the time of publish: $19

Tie: Pre-tied | Material: Polyester, Cotton | Colors: 31

Otaa

View On Otaa.com

The colorscape of this beautiful bow tie is giving Italian countryside, so grab an Aperol Spritz and plan on wearing this floral print bow tie for your wedding. The orange flowers and greenery can pick up the color in an orange or dark green suit while the subtle black background means you can effortlessly pair this garden tie with a standard black suit.

Price at the time of publish: $45

Tie: Pre-tied | Material: Cotton | Colors: Floral

Tie Bar

View On Thetiebar.com

A wallet-friendly price for a high-quality bow tie, because you deserve to look and feel your best without breaking the bank. Opt for the self-tie selection and you can tie it in different styles each time you wear it, giving you more bang for your buck with multiple looks in one.

Price at the time of publish: $24

Tie: Self-tie or Pre-tied | Material: Silk | Colors: 10

Paul Smith

View On Paulsmith.com

Made from the finest Italian silk, this Paul Smith bow tie is a must if you have a tuxedo in need of a black tie. Like all of Paul Smith’s bow ties, it comes pre-tied so you won’t need to spend extra time getting ready for your wedding or next formal event.

Price at the time of publish: $150

Tie: Pre-tied | Material: Silk | Colors: Black, Navy, Petrol

Tom Ford

View On Tomford.com

While not as common as satin or microfiber, faille gives bow ties a bit of texture with its ever-so-slightly ribbed material. We love the way this oversized bow drapes lower than the traditional symmetrical butterfly style.

Price at the time of publish: $270

Tie: Pre-tied | Material: Viscose | Colors: Black

Birdy Grey

View On Birdygrey.com

Who ever said only your human wedding guests could get in on the bow tie look? If your pup is joining the celebration as a ring bearer or walking you down the aisle, they deserve to feel special too. Choose a color that will stand out against their fur and you’ll be sure to elicit a swoon from the guests.

Price at the time of publish: $24

Tie: Pre-tied | Material: Polyester | Colors: 21

Meet the Expert

Kin Moy is a former professional MMA fighter turned personal stylist. He helps men across the country maximize their charisma, confidence, and style via his image consultancy firm, Dapper Dangerous.

What to Look For

Color

Not sure what color bow tie to select? There’s an entire rainbow available, but you can never go wrong with a black tie (it’s literally in the name). “Black bow ties are the standard for tuxedos and they're what I'd recommend in most situations,” says personal stylist Kin Moy. “Since tuxedos are evening wear, it's typically best practice to keep any colors tasteful and muted.”

There are always exceptions, and in this case, you want to look at the dress code and wedding website for any direction surrounding colors. If the design of the invitation is bright and colorful, a colorful tie may be the way to go. An outdoor wedding in the height of spring blooms can be an ideal situation to break out your favorite colored tie, like Tie Bar Mumu Weddings Bow Tie. But if the invite says black-tie, play it safe and stick with a black tie.

Shape

Bow ties are available in several different shapes and sizes and comes down to a matter of preference. The most common shape is a butterfly, like Brooks Brothers Butterfly Bow Tie, which is shaped like a bow tie pasta but with smooth edges. Popular shapes also include the batwing, a slim, narrower bow tie shape compared to the butterfly, and a diamond point like J.Crew English Satin Point Bow Tie, which, as the name implies, is pointed on each end.

“You can't go wrong with a classic butterfly, or better yet a jumbo butterfly if you're feeling bold,” says Moy. “Diamond point is a solid choice as well, but takes a bit more finesse to tie those in a pleasing fashion.”

Material

Bow ties come in a variety of materials including microfiber, silk, and velvet. The formality of the event you’re attending and the season it’s taking place in have the biggest impact on your bow tie choice. For example, a velvet bow tie like Paul Smith Velvet Bow Tie is typically reserved for wintertime whereas something made of a lightweight material would be more fitting for warmer months, like Otaa Dry Khaki White Linen Diamond Self Bow Tie.

“The proper etiquette calls for the bow tie material to match your tuxedo ‘facings,’ referring to the tuxedo's lapel, button, and pocket trim,” explains Moy. “Your two standard options are shiny satin or a more matte grosgrain (grow-grain), which is identifiable by its ribbed texture.” Satin and grosgrain are not your only options though. “A black velvet bow tie is certainly worth your consideration if you desire to stand out in a daring yet dignified manner,” says Moy.

FAQ

How do I tie a bow tie?

If you’re wearing a self-tie bow tie, it’s important to practice before the day of the wedding. With a little practice you can get the hang of it, but it’s often not going to look its best on your first try so advanced planning is advised. There are plenty of YouTube videos and step-by-step guides available online, but first you’ll need to know what style of knot to tie.
“Practice makes progress, not perfection,” reminds Moy. “But that's okay because a bow tie's charm is in its slight imperfections. A touch of asymmetry shows that you're rocking the real deal and not a pre-tied imitation although it's not the worst thing in the world to rock a pre-tied bow tie. Most people won't notice.”
Which dress codes require a bow tie?

Bow ties are not a fit for every occasion and are typically reserved for formal occasions, though you may find more colorful, casual bow ties paired with a colorful button-up for a garden party or outdoor fete. The best indicator for whether a bow tie is required will be the dress code that is printed on the invitation or wedding website.
“Any event that requires a tuxedo or dinner jacket will also require a bow tie,” explains Moy. “Black-tie and Creative Black Tie are two prime examples of dress codes where you should expect to wear a bow tie.”
Now if those aren’t the dress codes for the wedding you’re attending, that doesn’t mean you need to scrap your plan of wearing a bow tie all together. “Black-Tie Optional means that you can eschew the tux in favor of a dark business suit and conservative neck tie,” says Moy. “If you choose to go with the suit, definitely don't wear a bow tie. In this dress code, you're either all in with the tuxedo or not at all. No half-stepping!”
And if you’re attending a destination wedding, make sure to do your research on what the dress code protocol is in the country you’re visiting.

Why Trust Brides

Emily Rochotte is a wedding and lifestyle writer who covers all things wedding from fashion to planning to what’s trending. She has covered wedding fashion for outlets including Town & Country, Love Inc. Magazine, Equally Wed, Nearly Newlywed, and more. Rochotte always champions for you to wear what you feel best in and not let tradition or trends dictate what you are required to wear on your own wedding day.

The 12 Best Wedding Ties of 2023 for Grooms, Groomsmen, and Wedding Guests