How to tie a tie or bow tie
The knot should fit neatly against the collar, but should not be pulled too tight. A flat, shapeless knot indicates a knot that is too loose or too wide...
Practice leads to true mastery here. Clean hands and a mirror are recommended. Keep in mind that Beau Brummell reportedly spent almost an entire morning tying his tie (the size of a large napkin) correctly. The wide end reaches exactly to the waistband or belt. The narrow end at the back can simply hang loose
unless you prefer to pull it through the extra loop (passentino) on the back of the wide end. Certainly not forbidden, but leaving it loose looks more stylish. The narrow end should never be longer than the wide end and should not be tucked into the shirt.
Bow Tie
For certain occasions, a bow tie is a more elegant expression, such as a gala or dress code weddings. Besides the pre-tied bow tie, there is of course the self-tie option for those who persevere. The tying method is the same as tying a shoelace:
- Attach the two loose parts using the clip. Place the bow tie around your leg with the unattractive side facing inward. Make sure the ends are long enough to tie the bow.
- Tie a simple knot between the two ends by placing one flap over the other and then pulling it through.
- Create an imaginary loop and hold it with your thumb and index finger.
- Now fold the other flap over it while holding the loop firmly in place with your thumb and index finger.
- Use your other thumb to push the folded flap through the loop of the index finger.
- Pull both double flaps to tighten the bow tie.