November 21, 2025
How to Tie a Bow Tie
Read our guide to quickly get the hang of tying a self-tie bow tie.
While many people reserve a bow tie for only a few special occasions, knowing how to tie one is important so you’re prepared for those big life moments. So whether you’re reading this for an upcoming wedding, black tie event, or just want to look dapper, follow our step-by-step guide below to add a new skill to your sartorial repertoire.
Here are the steps:
- Make sure that one end of the bow tie is longer than the other end by a few inches.
- Cross the longer end of the bow tie over the shorter end.
- Bring the longer end of the bow tie underneath the shorter end, then bring it out from the center.
- Fold the shorter end of the bow tie horizontally.
- Place the longer end of the bow tie over the shorter end, on top of the knot you created.
- Pinch the two ends of the bow tie shape you created, folding it horizontally.
- Insert the longer end of the bow tie through the loop at the back of the shorter end.
- Pull both looped ends gently to tighten the knot, and adjust as needed with the other ends.
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