The Perfect Austrian Bow Tie: A Step-By-Step Guide

Bow ties are a fun and unique way to accessorise and elevate your formalwear. They are a descendant of the knotted cravat and have been a staple in formalwear for centuries. While pre-tied bow ties are convenient, nothing beats the sophistication of a hand-tied bow tie. In this article, we will break down the steps to tying the perfect bow tie.

Positioning the bow tie

Firstly, drape the bow tie around your neck, ensuring that one side is longer than the other. This longer side will be referred to as 'A', and the shorter side as 'B'. Position the tie so that side A hangs roughly 1.5-2 inches lower than side B. It is important to get this initial step right, as it forms the foundation for the rest of the bow tie.

Next, take side A and move it to the right side, crossing over side B. This step is crucial as it creates the initial structure for the bow tie knot. Make sure the tie is comfortably positioned and not too tight or too loose.

Now, bring side A under side B and up through the neck loop. This step may require some dexterity, but it is essential to create the layered effect needed for the bow shape. Ensure that side A passes smoothly under side B to avoid any unwanted creases or folds.

At this stage, you should have a basic structure in place, with side A passing under the neck loop and side B forming the outer layer. Adjust the tie as needed to ensure it feels comfortable and secure.

You are now ready to start forming the distinctive bow shape. Take side B and fold it towards the right and then towards the left at its widest point. This step will create the first loop of the bow tie. Ensure the fold is crisp and neat to achieve a polished look.

Finally, bring side A straight down over the middle of the bow shape you created with side B. This step completes the positioning of the bow tie and sets the foundation for the final adjustments. Ensure side A lies flat and is centred, as this will be the focal point of your Austrian bow tie.

With these steps, you should now have a well-positioned Austrian bow tie, ready for the final touches.

Crossing the longer end over the shorter end

Crossing the longer end over the shorter is a fundamental step in creating an elegant Austrian bow tie. This step is crucial to the overall aesthetics and functionality of the knot. Here's a detailed guide to executing this step with precision:

As you begin this step, ensure that you have already established a solid foundation by following the previous steps of tying an Austrian bow tie. You should have a collared shirt buttoned up to the top, with the shorter end of the ribbon securely tucked through the label, and the longer end draped across it, creating an 'X' shape. Now, focus on the longer end, which should be the active end that you work with.

Gently lift the longer end and bring it across the shorter, stationary end. Imagine creating a bridge over the shorter end, ensuring that it is a neat and smooth action. Take your time with this step, as the placement and tension of the ribbon will affect the overall look of your bow tie. You want the longer end to gracefully cover the shorter end, creating a foundation for the upcoming loops and folds.

As you cross the longer end, be mindful of maintaining a slight tension on the ribbon. This tension is essential for creating a crisp and defined look. Avoid pulling too tightly, as you want to allow for some natural drape and flexibility in the fabric. Finding the right balance between tension and slack is key to achieving a polished result.

At this point, you should have the longer end neatly crossed over the shorter end, with a clear 'X' shape visible. Ensure that the ribbon lies flat against your shirt and that there are no twists or bunches in the fabric. This step sets the stage for the subsequent folding and sculpting of the bow, so it's important to take your time and ensure a precise and symmetrical cross.

Once you have mastered this step, you are one step closer to achieving the unique and sophisticated Austrian bow tie style. Remember, practice makes perfect, and with each attempt, you will develop a better feel for the fabric and the necessary tension required. Keep following the subsequent steps to complete your Austrian bow tie, and you'll soon be able to showcase your elegant and distinctive neckwear.

Pulling side A through the neck loop

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To begin, ensure that you have adjusted your bow tie so that side A (the left side) is longer than side B (the right side). Cross side A over side B, bringing it to the right. Then, take side A and gently pull it under side B and up through the neck loop. This step forms the foundation of your bow tie knot. It is important to ensure that you are pulling side A through the neck loop smoothly and securely, as this will impact the overall structure of your bow tie.

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When pulling side A through the neck loop, take your time and be gentle to avoid any creases or bunching. You want to achieve a clean, crisp look. Once side A is through the neck loop, you can adjust it to ensure it sits comfortably around your neck. The key is to create a balanced and symmetrical look, so take a moment to ensure side A is positioned just right before moving on to the next step. A well-tied bow tie should feel comfortable and secure, so make any necessary adjustments to the tightness at this stage.

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Now, let's focus on the placement of side A. After pulling it through the neck loop, side A should rest elegantly across your collar. You can adjust the length of side A to achieve the desired look. For a more playful and casual appearance, you might allow side A to extend further below the knot. Conversely, if you're aiming for a more polished and refined aesthetic, you might opt to keep side A closer in length to side B, creating a more symmetrical and compact look. This is also an excellent opportunity to ensure that your bow tie is centred and aligned with your shirt collar.

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At this stage, you have completed the fundamental step of pulling side A through the neck loop. Now, you can begin to shape the bow. The next step is to fold side B towards the right and then towards the left, creating a beautiful bow shape. This step will bring your bow tie to life, giving it volume and dimension. Remember to maintain a gentle touch and make any necessary adjustments to ensure the bow shape is symmetrical and elegant. Once you are satisfied with the shape of side B, you can proceed to the final steps of tying your Austrian bow tie.

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Although pulling side A through the neck loop is a crucial step, remember that the overall process of tying an Austrian bow tie is a sequence of interconnected steps. Each step builds upon the other, so take your time and don't rush the process. Practice makes perfect, and with each attempt, you will develop a better understanding of the nuances and intricacies of tying an Austrian bow tie. Don't be discouraged if your bow tie doesn't look perfect on the first try—it is a skill that develops with patience and repetition.

Creating the first loop

To create the first loop of an Austrian bow tie, start by placing the bow tie around the back of your neck, with one end of the tie laying on each shoulder. Ensure the top button of your shirt is buttoned and your collar is up. Adjust the bow tie so that the right side is shorter than the left. We will refer to the left end as 'A' and the right end as 'B'.

Now, take end 'A' and move it to the right side, crossing over end 'B'. Bring end 'A' under and up through the neck loop, pulling it tight. You should now have a piece of fabric on top of your knot and a piece of fabric at the bottom. The top piece should be about half an inch longer than the bottom piece.

With your left hand, pull the top piece of fabric to the side. You have now created the first loop!

Creating the second loop

Now, for creating the second loop, you will need to bring side A over the middle of the bow. This is the longer end of the tie that was previously placed on your shoulder. Drape it over the skinniest part of the bow shape. Ensure that the patterned side of the tie faces outwards and lies flat on the bow.

Next, repeat the same folding action you did for side B. Pinch side A just above where the strap begins to widen and fold it back towards your chest. Then, fold your tie down at the widest point to create the bow shape.

Now, pass side A through the loop behind side B. Each side of the bow will now have a folded and a flat part. Pinch the ends of side B together to expose the loop in your tie.

Finally, gently push the folded section of side A into the loop and pull it through. Smooth out the tie so that it sits flat and aligns with the bow shape in front of it.

Frequently asked questions