Is the bow-tie out of fashion?
Loved by tuxedo wearers, professors and dandies across the globe, the humble bow-tie is a sure fire way to make a statement. Oscillating between elegant and foppish, it’s been a mainstay in men’s wardrobes since the 1800s and continues to enjoy occasional surges in popularity now and then.
However, in recent years there’s been a noticeable shift away from this iconic piece of neck wear - with the exception of black tie attire - that has meant men’s bow ties have languished. But just because a piece isn’t on trend right now, doesn’t mean you shouldn’t be wearing it.
After all, at Oscar Hunt, we champion a style that exists outside of fashion fads and that’s curated for you and your lifestyle. Here, we explain how you can integrate the bow-tie as part of it.
Bow-ties and day wear
Let’s start with what may at first appear the most inaccessible environment for sporting a bow-tie; day wear.
While it might not be the first thing you reach for every morning, adding this piece to a suit - particularly one that’s in a thicker, more textured wool or tweed - can offer extra panache and level up your work wear.
In this instance, we’d recommend selecting a bow-tie that’s in a similar texture to the suit cloth itself. For example, during the cooler months, a charcoal flannel suit would pair beautifully with a loose knit dove grey bow-tie and a pair of black brogues. Plus, it makes for an eye catching substitute for a standard business tie.
Bow-ties and cocktails
Cocktail parties are the ideal time to play with bolder colours and patterns and this is no exception when it comes to bow-ties. In fact, the more unique looking it is, the better. We’d recommend a self-tie in this instance as the imperfect execution tends to add an insouciance to your look.
Whether you’re adding a splash of canary yellow to the classic navy blazer/taupe chino combination or you’re leveling up a lounge suit with a paisley bow-tie, there’s a broad spectrum of options to play with.
Bow-ties and black tie
And of course, any article on bow-ties wouldn’t be complete without a mention to black-tie dressing. While a traditional necktie can be worn as evening wear, we don’t think there’s really a substitute for a beautiful satin bow-tie.
And although it’s part of a fairly rigid dress code, that doesn’t mean there’s not an opportunity to have fun. If you’re looking to make more of a sartorial splash with your evening wear, why not explore less-common options like ivory or even a black and white polka dots to inject some personality?
All tied up with no place to go?
Our team of expert fitters are always happy to talk ties - whether they be neck ties or bow ties - and can offer up their own styling tips on how to wear them. Make an appointment or visit your local showroom today to have a chat.
