Bow ties

Bow ties from MILER Menswear are a distinctive accessory for both formal and casual outfits

What makes this refined and eye-catching accessory worth your attention? A bow tie is often chosen by men who want an alternative to the more predictable suit and tie combination. Depending on the color and fabric, a bow tie can work for formal occasions or more casual settings. For special events, opt for a solid-colored silk bow tie in green or red. For a relaxed yet original look, go for patterned bow ties in textured fabrics like wool or linen. These styles can completely transform the mood of your outfit. Bow ties add charm, character, and a personal touch—but only if chosen and worn well. At MILER Menswear, you’ll find a wide selection of bow ties that suit your taste and help define your style.

Why bow ties? Who are they for?

Bow ties are a truly distinctive accessory—one that’s seen less often these days, but all the more impactful because of it. They're perfect for men who want to express individuality and stand out with intention. A bow tie adds personality and charm, helping to craft a look that feels entirely your own. Wearing one suggests confidence and a sense of independence from outside opinions. It’s a thoughtful choice that adds charisma and completes your outfit like the final brushstroke on a masterpiece. But personality alone isn’t enough—a bow tie should still be worn with subtlety and taste. It’s about finding the sweet spot between self-expression and a respect for classic menswear principles. Get it right, and a bow tie will elevate your presence, lending strength to your image and radiating authority. That’s the kind of self-assurance that never goes unnoticed.

The construction of a bow tie

First, avoid pre-tied bow ties—they do not meet the standards of true men's elegance. MILER Menswear offers only bow ties that you will tie yourself, which reflect your personal style and individuality. The slight asymmetry of a hand-tied bow adds charm and a unique character.

Most self-tie bow ties feature an adjustable strap, allowing for a quick, neat, and effective fit. Sizing matters—if a bow tie is too loose, it won’t look sharp or refined. It should be tied snugly, without sacrificing comfort. For more advanced wearers, there are also single-piece bow ties without adjusters, which must be custom-made and perfectly fitted to the wearer. The most common bow tie size is 2.5 inches, but we also offer 3-inch options, which are particularly well-suited for men with a broader build. So, what shapes of bow ties are available?

HOURGLASS AND DIAMOND SHAPES

The most common type of bow tie is the classic hourglass shape, often referred to as the butterfly. This is the style you’re most likely to see on the street or in stores. It’s a timeless choice that works well for virtually any occasion where a bow tie is appropriate. There are also less common options, such as the diamond-tip bow tie, which features pointed ends. This design gives the bow tie a slightly more relaxed and less formal character, making it ideal for those looking to add a unique twist to their outfit.

BATWING

There is also the distinctive batwing bow tie. When untied, it appears as a long, rectangular ribbon with a consistent width throughout. This style was particularly favored by Sir Sean Connery. The batwing bow tie is well-suited for slightly more formal occasions, offering a sleek and elegant alternative to more common shapes. 

How to tie a bow tie?

Tying a bow tie takes practice and patience—it’s not something you can master the night before an event! Start early and rehearse often.  A seasoned eye can easily tell whether you’re new to bow ties or wear them with confidence—just like with ties. Perfecting the technique will ensure you look elegant and refined.

Above all, tying a bow tie properly starts with selecting the right length. Nearly all bow ties today come with an adjustable strap, making this easy to manage. A bow tie that’s too long will appear overly wide and extend beyond the contours of your face, while one that’s too short will lose its proper shape once tied. It’s important to remember that the appearance of the knot depends on how well the bow's two halves are shaped and how the narrow center section is positioned. A well-fitted and properly tied bow tie should sit neatly within the collar line and not exceed the outer edges of your face (specifically, the ends of your eyes). With enough practice and attention to these guidelines, you’ll soon master the art of tying a bow tie with confidence.

Matching bow tie to the occasion

The two most formal dress codes one may encounter are undoubtedly white tie and black tie. For the former—considered the highest level of formality—a tailcoat and a white bow tie are required. For the latter, the appropriate attire is a tuxedo paired with a black bow tie. There are rare exceptions where a graphite or steel-colored bow tie can be worn with a tuxedo, such as at a wedding. However, this is a choice best left to experienced dressers, as it requires careful consideration and a strong sense of classic style.

A formal event such as a wedding or New Year’s Eve celebration can be the perfect occasion to wear a bow tie for the first time. Why? Because on such occasions, a bow tie is less likely to draw excessive attention—making it easier to feel comfortable and get acquainted with this stylish accessory. For formal settings, it’s best to choose bow ties made of jacquard silk—a lustrous fabric known for its ability to reflect light elegantly. It’s also wise to avoid overly bold or flashy bow ties, as subtlety remains key to refined elegance.

It’s important to always match the formality of your bow tie to the rest of your outfit. As your overall look becomes more casual, the bow tie should follow suit. One of the most charming options for informal occasions is the tweed bow tie. Made from a thick, textured fabric and tied with a larger knot, it adds a touch of bold character. It pairs especially well with a tweed jacket, creating a refined yet relaxed ensemble. A combination like this ensures an elegant appearance with a more laid-back, confident flair.

Men's bow ties to wear with shirts

How should you pair a bow tie with a shirt? For formal wear, choose a shirt with a covered placket, which features a strip of fabric that covers the buttons. If you're wearing a tuxedo, the shirt should also feature a covered placket—or alternatively, it can be a shirt with stud buttons. For casual outfits, go with an OCBD shirt (Oxford cloth button-down) or shirts with visible plackets. If worn with a sweater, ensure the V-neck is deep enough.

Bow tie and pocket square

If you choose to wear a bow tie, don’t overlook other accessories. A classic white linen pocket square pairs beautifully with a bow tie. As a highly stylish accessory, a bow tie gains even more character when thoughtfully combined with other elements. That’s why it’s important to pay special attention to how you style it. A pocket square is a safe yet timeless choice—one that will never be a fashion misstep.

Red bow tie

Looking for something beyond the usual? A burgundy bow tie is a bold yet refined option that brings depth and personality to your look. It’s elegant, versatile, and just the right touch of distinction for those who value individuality in their style. If you want to make a subtle statement, this might be exactly what you're after. Take a closer look today!

Bow tie - our store

Our store offers a wide variety of bow ties, so you're sure to find something that suits your style. All of our accessories are crafted with exceptional attention to detail and made from high-quality materials. That’s why our bow ties truly elevate any outfit. Discover our full collection today!