Bow Tie sizes

[randooch]

Forgive the ignorance, but as an old professor once pointed out, "the only real question is a stupid question: if you know the answer, don't ask; you're just showing off."

My 'real' question has to do with bow ties. I'd like to acquire some vintage ebay ones, and I figure I can learn to tie them with practice and youtube, but I'm unsure of overall length and size designations. I see some that say 14, for instance. I wear a 17 neck size in shirts, so should I be looking for size 17 bow ties? Thanks for the guidance. I looked through the thread with a search, but couldn't get an answer to that particularity.

 

[JohnnyGringo]

It's been my experience that most bow ties are adjustable in sizes from approximately 14 1/2 to size 17 1/2, although I suppose there may be some custom made for specific sizes. Keep looking, I'm certain you'll find adjustable self-tie bows that will easily fit you. And by the way, once you begin wearing them, you likely won't be able to stop-bows are very addictive!

 

[MisterGrey]

If you've never worn a bow-tie before, the experience of having one on and being seen in it is something you'll have to transition into. It definitely creates a wholly different look than a necktie. This certainly isn't a bad thing-- I own a midnight blue and black paisley bow tie, myself-- but it is definitely different. It will be a matter both of getting used to how you see yourself in a bow tie, and how others perceive you; you will get more unusual looks wearing a bow tie with a retro outfit than you would a "standard" retro outfit with a neck tie.

 

[Geesie]

There's probably a bow tie thread somewhere else, but...

I have a half-dozen bow ties. Love 'em. I wear your standard four-in-hand for more conservative occasions but I pull out the bows when I want to feel special.

Red patterned, light blue and dark blue paisleys, silver herringbone, red and black stripe.

And of course, black.

They're all adjustable. I prefer the ones with the hook and eyelets in the back, but either way I need adjustable ties because my fingers just don't seem to be able to get a nonadjustable one tight enough.

 

[Lou]

Please let us know how your venture into bow ties goes. The only time I wore one as an adult was to my wedding. I've come across a few that had terrific patterns, but have yet to muster the confidence to wear one with everyday attire. Now that FL has opened me up to hats and vintage-inspired dress, bow ties won't likely be far behind.

 

[anglophile]

http://www.cravateroyale.com/bow_tie_instructions.php


This is a great video about how to tie a bow tie. It's a sticky over at AskAndy.