How to Tie a Bow Tie Step-by-Step, According to Menswear Experts

Not only smart and stylish, bow ties are actually pretty versatile. A bow tie can dress up a sports jacket or put the finishing touch on a tuxedo, and can be an appropriate choice for black-tie balls, weddings, the office, or even a sophisticated brunch. The sheer number of events that could possibly call for the accessory makes it all the more important to learn how to tie a bow tie—so we went to the experts.

Below, menswear experts break down the process of tying a bow tie into seven easy steps. (You'll be a pro yourself in no time.)

Selecting a Bow Tie

Before you get started with tying, you have to know what you're working with. When choosing the perfect bow tie, the mood, occasion, and personal style are all factors to consider. "While silk bows and velvet are best for formal occasions," explains chief menswear fitter Neil Machlovitz, "fabric bows are great for that casual yet sporty look. They dress you up without being overdressed."

Size and dimensions also matter when choosing a bow tie. Garment care expert William Wong emphasizes the importance of a bow tie framing both the collar of the shirt and one’s face appropriately. A small bow tie might look out of place on a larger frame, for example. "Like a pair of shoes, the size of the bow tie is independent of the knot and will come in different sizes," says Wong.

How to Tie a Bow Tie

When learning to tie a bow tie, it is important to exercise patience. Rid yourself of distractions, and take a deep breath before your first attempt.

For complete beginners, practice tying the bow tie first on your thigh, recommends Machlovitz.

Follow these simple instructions to achieve the perfect bow.

1. Position correctly. With the shirt on, buttoned, and the collar turned up, place the bow tie around the neck with the right end hanging slightly longer than the left. (Just a few inches should do the trick.)
2. Cross over the ends. Next, cross the bow tie’s right side (the longer side) over the shorter one, forming an 'X' shape below the chin—the closer the better. 
3. Loop around. Continue forming a bow by looping the longer end behind the shorter end. (You’ll notice it starts looking more like a knot.)
4. Form the bow. Here, you’ll form a bow shape by folding and positioning the bow tie horizontally.
5. Drape the longer end. Now, take the right, longer end and drape it over the center of the bow formation you've just made.
6. Form the second bow. Form and position the longer end like you did for the last. (Doing so creates a second bow formation.)
7. Secure the bow tie. Pull the ends of the bow together and tighten the knot to complete the process. You may have to adjust a bit to achieve symmetry.
   

“Practice makes perfect,” assures Jason Jackson, president and COO of Generation Tux. "Getting the ideal bow tie is almost an art. If you don’t succeed the first time, don’t get discouraged."