Bow Ties

I agree with what LinacMan says about thinner materials vs stiffer materials. I do think silk bowties are easier to tie than cotton.

I think if you're looking at a shirt that you wouldn't wear a necktie with, you probably wouldn't wear a bowtie with it, either (the exceptions being the pleated shirt worn with a tuxedo or the marcella dress shirt worn with tails). Similarly, a pattern that looks ugly to you as a necktie isn't likely to make a great-looking bowtie. But that's a matter of personal taste.

Thanks for the replies.

I'm thinking of getting one cotton and one silk. That way I can see for myself how I like each fabric. My initial thinking is that I'll choose a cotton one for my winter suits, which are dark and a little rougher looking (wool). I'll choose a silk tie for my summer suits, which are lighter colored and and lighter weight (cotton-linen blend). Am I wrong in thinking that?

Also, from the links in this thread, Beau Ties of Vermont is noticeably more expensive than The Tie Bar, Bows 'n Ties, and Maine Bows. Are their ties that much better quality?

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Originally Posted by SlowRain

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What are some things to consider when choosing a bow tie? How do the materials affect tying it? What are some things to avoid? Does it require a certain kind of shirt to pull off the look?
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One thing might be "your neck". If you have one, a bow tie could be nice.
If you do not have one or have a very short one perhaps not.
The key I think has to do with the way your shirts buttons and fits.
No too tight?


Try some... inexpensive clip-on perhaps visit a good shirt and tie shop.
Not all shirts are cut equal.

I'm pretty thin and have a neck, so that shouldn't be a problem. The main problem is I live in Taiwan, so I can't get a great idea of the ties over the internet. I have to rely on your experiences with the various online tie vendors. (Ties here don't really have a lot of style or much thought put into them, so buying local isn't much of an option.)

Another one to add for your opinions is The Bow Tie Club.

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Originally Posted by SlowRain

I'm pretty thin and have a neck, so that shouldn't be a problem. The main problem is I live in Taiwan,
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From here I would think Taiwan might be easy.
Visit a Tuxedo rental shop as a start.

Also, A tailor should be able to make some from the same silk used to line
or make suits (or velvet or .... what they have that you like). Haggle to have them use left over "scraps".
If you have one as a sample ask for a couple more just like this one.

There was a local doctor that always wore a red velvet bow tie. He had a dozen made
so he always had a fresh one. Worked for him at work...