by EMERSON SLOANE
There are numerous options for wearing a bow-tie these days that have extended the fashion accessory beyond formal event attire. I love to learn about the origins of trends. For example, some of our fashion trends are accidental. Men do not button the last button on their suit jackets because King Edward VII, in the early 1900s, started leaving his button undone. Men emulated it, but the King started doing it out of a practicality--he was a heavy set man. Boom...a fashion trend was created and now you never even see the slimmest and fittest man walking around with that button fastened, even if a suit is tailored to every muscle on his body.
Bow-ties were first worn by soldiers for practical reasons, in the 17th century. Physicians soon followed. A shorter tie was more sanitary and practical for physicians, and on the battlefield, the last thing a soldier wanted was to get his tie pulled or wrapped up in a sword.
Even though bow-ties are gaining in mainstream street style, it's still important to consider if a bow-tie is right for you in some situations.
If you're going to wear one for spring or summer, make sure your whole outfit reflects that aesthetic so that bow-tie doesn't look like something you slapped on. Some of my favorite bow-tie looks come from Vineyard Vines. They know how to make the accessory work. Take your cues where you find them.
For a formal event, it's always appropriate to wear one with a tuxedo or with an elegant suit, if you're attending a coworker's wedding, for example, or to a conference or yearly work function. Keep it simple, though. You can never go wrong with solid colors that complement your suit. Less is more, in some cases.
Don't wear them to job interviews or for presentations. It's tempting to try and stand out, be noticeable, and make an impression, but these are times where instead of doing that, you're putting all the attention on what you're wearing, instead of who you are or the material you're presenting. You want people to notice you in your capacity--not for what tie you have on.
There's no way to make wearing a bow-tie subtle. So, save it for occasions and avoid making it part of your identity every day. But, if you do wear one around the workplace or on the street, there are some rules to follow: patterned shirts require simpler ties. You can get away with more if your shirt is a solid color canvas. Always wear them along with a well-fitted, tailored jacket. Above all, the goal is to make it look like you're not trying too hard to be distinctive.
In the workplace, consider your line of work: if you're in a creative industry and a creative office environment, you have more leeway in your style of dress and the accessories you choose. If you're in a law office, you have less so. If you're in doubt, it's never a bad idea to take your business attire cues from those higher up. Individuality is important, but in your workplace, it isn't the priority.
No matter what, though...never get the clip on. Learn how to tie one. It'll make the difference, every time.
© 2015 Haven Style