Do you like the look of a bow tie vs. a necktie, but you’re wondering: can I wear a bow tie to a wedding? You’re in good company! I admire the look of a bow tie at a wedding, but I know the style is not for everyone.
Today we’re sharing some helpful tips wear a bow tie for your wedding to make sure you nail this classic look.
Let’s get started!
Can You Wear a Bow Tie at a Wedding?
As a rule of thumb, yes, you can wear a bow tie at a wedding as the groom, groomsman, Best Man, usher, or as a wedding guest.
Traditionally, the groom wears a white bow tie and everyone else wears black (or a color that coordinates with the bridesmaid dresses).
There are a few helpful tips that apply to wearing one, so listen up!
1. Wear a bow tie only if the style suits you.
Don’t wear a bow tie just because it’s “in” or a trend; wear one if it actually suits your style (and you feel comfortable wearing one).
2. Choose a color that coordinates with your wedding palette.
If you’re not into a bright or poppy pattern, pick a solid bow tie for your wedding. A black bow tie paired with a white button-down shirt and suit is a classic look that’s always in style.
Also, don’t let the bow tie be a distraction: if you’re wearing a suit jacket or button-down shirt that has a bold pattern, go neutral on the bow tie. Likewise, if your attire is more subtle, select a more striking bow tie. If you’re selecting bow ties for groomsmen, coordinate their ties with the bridesmaid dresses.
3. Be consistent.
If you’re wearing a bow tie, the groomsmen should follow suit. Similarly, if you’re wearing a necktie, groomsmen shouldn’t wear a bow tie to a wedding. The look is more cohesive in photographs if everyone wears the same style of tie. However, the groom’s should be slightly different (he should wear white while the groomsmen wear black; or, his should be black while the groomsmen wear a colorful bow tie.)
Learn How to Tie a Bow Tie BEFORE the Wedding
Also, if your bow tie is not pre-tied, make sure you learn how to do it before the wedding. (You can get pre-tied ones here if you’re uncomfortable doing it yourself.) You don’t want to be Youtubing it while you’re minutes away from the limo ride to the ceremony!
As a popular scientist (Bill Nye) once said, “Tying a bow tie is not rocket science”. It’s true! Click here to see him show you EXACTLY how to tie a bow tie from start to finish. See? It’s not so hard. :)
Practice, practice, practice! Make sure you get that bow tie looking its very best before the wedding day arrives.
Bow Ties for Your Wedding
Here are some ideas of bow ties you can buy for your wedding day. These are handmade by Broiderie Stitch and are made of linen. They go with everything, they’re comfortable to wear, and you can rock a classic black bow tie complete with a matching pocket square.
Ready to suit up? Visit the collection to shop your perfect bow tie look.
On to you: will the groom wear a bow tie at your wedding? Why or why not? Tell us in the comment box below!
Happy Planning!
xo
Emma
