The History of the Bow Tie and the Common Bow Tie Types to Wear

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The bow tie is a timeless piece of men’s formalwear, and it has been reinventing itself for hundreds of years. It has gone through many transformations over the years, from its humble beginnings to its modern-day status as a fashion statement. The bow tie has been around for centuries, but it wasn’t always associated with formal wear. It wasn’t until the 19th century that the bow tie began to gain popularity as a piece of formalwear.

The History of the Bowtie 

The bow tie was first worn by Croatian mercenaries during the Thirty Years War in the 17th century. The mercenaries wore the bow tie as a symbol of their bravery and dedication to their country. The bow tie was also popular among French aristocracy during the late 18th century, as it was seen as a sign of sophistication and elegance.

In the 19th century, the bow tie became increasingly popular among the upper classes in Europe and eventually spread to the United States. In the early 20th century, the bow tie was adopted by Hollywood actors such as Clark Gable, Humphrey Bogart, and Cary Grant, and it soon became a fashionable accessory for men in the United States.

Today, the bow tie is still a popular accessory for men. It is a stylish and versatile piece of formalwear that can be dressed up or down. Whether you’re attending a formal event or just want to add a touch of class to your everyday look, the bow tie is a great way to make a statement. With its timeless style, the bow tie is sure to remain a staple in men’s formalwear for years to come.

Types of Bowties

1 - The Self-Tie

The self-tie bow tie is the traditional bow tie, and it is the most popular style. It is usually made from a piece of fabric that is folded over and attached to a neckband. The wearer must learn how to tie the bow tie himself, which can be done by following the instructions that often come with the bow tie.

2 - The Pre-Tied

The pre-tied bow tie is a bow tie that is already tied and attached to a neckband. This type of bow tie is easy to wear and requires no tying skills, making it perfect for those who are new to wearing bow ties.

3 - The Clip-On

The clip-on bow tie is a bow tie that is attached to a clip, which can be easily fastened to the wearer’s shirt collar. This type of bow tie is convenient and easy to wear, and it is a great option for those who don’t want to bother with learning how to tie a bow tie.

4 - The Banded

The banded bow tie is a bow tie that is attached to a band, similar to the pre-tied bow tie. The banded bow tie is usually made from a thicker fabric, such as silk, and is often more expensive than the other types of bow ties.

Conclusion

The bow tie has a long and varied history. From antiquity to the courts of Europe, to the modern-day, the bow tie has been reinvented and modernized to suit the changing times. It is now a staple of professional attire around the world and is also seen as a fashionable accessory for both men and women. 

Its versatility and timelessness have made it an enduring choice for those looking to make a statement with their outfit. While the bow tie may have changed in appearance over the centuries, it is clear that its iconic style and charm will remain a popular choice for many years to come.

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