Bow Ties
la Bowtique
I’ve attended many black tie dinners and once watched a Gentleman go to the bathroom with a pre-tied bow only to return with top button undone and a self-tied draped nonchalantly around his neck. The original no doubt stuffed in his pocket. I didn’t pass comment, why would I? I just found it somewhat amusing.
A pre-tied bowtie is the equivalent of the elasticated necktie my mother dressed me in as a 4 year old. School-bound at 5, mum taught me how to tie my shoelaces using the arm of a chair. My dad taught me how to tie the Four-in-Hand (of course the only knot you need in your necktie) and off to school I popped. No buckled sandals or tie twang for me. We start as we mean to go on.
The principles remain the same for tying a bow; take a little time, add some concentration and we’ll never look back.
Once nailed we’ve then got to buy the right bow tie. I have a number of them though have only two on rotation, both from la Bowtique. If I ever find finer I’ll let you know, just don’t hold your breath.
I’ve known Mickael for quite some time and thought it time we went to see him. The Beautiful One and I spent a wonderful afternoon at his London studio chatting through the options - turns out there’s more to this than meets the eye. I’ve a penchant for a big double breasted Dinner Jacket which needs a substantial bowtie; something to hold the eye. We plumped for the Brandon. Our maestro says:-
The Black Silk Satin Brandon Bow Tie is straight at the top and features full wings towards the bottom, giving it fullness and character. The Brandon Bow Tie is ideal for those who want a strong design while retaining a classic style. At first it seems like a statement piece but it is surprisingly versatile.
To all of which I can attest, I’ve worn mine with both black and blue velvet and love it. So much so that it got two run outs in Florence this year alongside my new addition. Something quite different, the Continental. Worn with a shawl lapel, when the Brandon would be too much, echoing 1950s chic. Easy style sported by many, from Elvis to John Coltrane no less…
The Continental bow tie gently follows the curve of the neck and is held together by a snap button, laying flat under the collar. A sleek design for black tie occasions.
For me, it’s at the other end of the bow tie spectrum. Offering a completely different look all within the the beauty of what black tie is all about. With those bases covered I’m on the lookout for something in the middle so I feel another pilgrimage is on the cards. I have my eye on the Medium Diamond…
That being said my book of the year for 2024 was Modern Black Tie: A Guide which is more than a guide it’s the definitive word on all we need to know. A wonderfully put together directory of the world’s leading black-tie brands, and a foreword by actor, broadcaster, and writer Stephen Fry, it is the perfect reference book for anyone who is interested in black-tie and classic menswear. Suffice to say I’m on record as stating it is The Black Tie Bible.
Oh and by the way, the slight of hand guy wasn’t in Florence, who’d dare…?
Best
Nigel
Nigel - try LeNoued Papillon. Nick makes a great bow tie.
Hi Nigel, I am getting married soon and also bought myself a black self-tie silk batwing bow tie. Looking forward to tie it for the first time and wear it proudly at this special occasion! Thanks for this article. Have a great day!