When it comes to dressing up, especially for formal or semi-formal occasions, one of the most important questions to consider is what to wear around your neck. Ties, bow ties and neck scarves are all popular options in the menswear universe, but knowing when to wear each of these accessories and how to pair them with the rest of your outfit is essential for achieving the right look.
Here’s a breakdown of each option, its best use cases, and tips for pulling off each style with confidence.
CLASSIC TIE— Timeless elegance
Best for: business attire, formal events, weddings and most professional settings. The classic necktie is a staple in menswear. It has a versatile appeal, making it suitable for a wide range of occasions, from corporate meetings to back-tie events. Ties come with a variety of materials (silk, wool, cotton), colors and patters, giving you plenty of room to experss your personnal style while maintaining a level of formality.
When to wear it: Ties are ideial for most formal events like business meetings, job interviews, weddings or dinner. Whether you’re opting for a sleek black tie with a tuxedo or a subtle striped tie for a professional setting, the it eis the go-to accessory when aiming for a refined look.
How to wear it: for a sophisticated look, make sure the tie is proporcional to the colar size of your shirt and the length of your torso. The tip of the ties shoud rest right above the waistband of your trousers. Choose a knot based on the occasion: the simple Four-in-Hand knot is casual and eady, while the Windsor knot os more structured and formal.
Style tip: if you’re attending a more relaxed event, a knitted tie can add a unique touch while still keeping the look polished. Pair it with a tailores blazer for a perfect balance of business and casual.
BOW TIE— Playful refinement
Best for: black-tie events, galas, weddings and creative formal occasions. A bow tie can be a bold statement that signals a sense of elegance, creativity and sometimes whimsy. It is traditionally associated with black-tie events but has made a stylish come back in more casual settings, including dinner parties and even more modern weddings.
When to wear it: a bow tie is typically worn at formal events like galas, charity dinners or weddings, specially when the dress code is “black tie” or “white tie”. In modern times, bow ties have also become popular at semi-formal or creative events, where they add an element of personal style and uniqueness. It’s perfect for a tuxedo, but also pairs weill a well-tailores suit.
How to wear it: bow ties come in pre-tied and self-tie options, though the latter exudes a more traditional and personal flair. Opt for a classic black silk bou tie for a formal look or choose a patterned or colored option to make a playful statement at less formal events. It’s importante to ensure your bow ti eis sizes appropriately to your face and collar to avoid looking either too large or too small.
Style tip: when wearing a bow tie, keep your shirt stiff and opt for a slim, well-tailores suit to avoid clasing with the shape of the bow tie. A bow ti eis most effective whem it doesn’t compete with other loud accessories, so keep the rest of your outfit simple and polished.
NECK SCARF— Effortless cool
Best for: casual events, outdoor gatherings and adding a touch of flair to relaxed outfits. The neck scarf is na excelent alternative to the tie and bow tie, offering a relaxed yet sophisticated vibe. Historically a symbol of 19th century style and exploration, it has evolved to become a conteporary accessory see non the runways and on the streets. Perfect for those seeking an adventurous or bohemian flair, the neck scarf can be styled in countless ways, making it incredibly versatile.
When to wear it: the neck scarf is ideal for occasions where you want to look stylish without the formality of a tie or bow tie. It’s perfect for outdoor events like garden parties, festivals or causal weddings. If you’re attending a creative or laid-back event, such a brunch, it’s also a great way to show personality without feeling overly dresses up.
How to wear it: neck scarves are often worn loosely around the neck, knotted in various ways – wether tied loosely like a bandana or wrapped in relaxed drape. For a more traditional look, you can wear it in a Parisian knot or for a more bold style, try the Ascot knot. Choose a lightweight fabric such as silk, linnen or cotton to ensure comfort, especially in warmer weather.
Style tip: a neck scarf works particularly well when paired with a relaxed button-down shirt, a lightweight blazer or even a casual t-shirt. When wearing a neck scarf, don’t overcomplicate the outfit. Let the accessory shine by keeping the rest of the outfit minimal and sophisticated. Avoid pairing it with overly formal pieces, like a suit, unless you’re going for a deliberately quirky look.
Ultimately, the choice between a tie, bow tie or neck scarf comes down to the event you’re attending, your personal style and the overall aesthetic you want to convey. If you need to look polished and professional, a tie is your best bet. For a more playful yet still formal look, the bow tie is an excelente choice, adding an air of refinement and personality. Meanwhile, a neck scarf offers a fresh, cool twist on casual dressing and provides the freedom to experiment with different fabrics, knots ans styles.
No matter what you choose, the key to pulling off any of these accessories is confidence and comfort. After all, its not just about the piece itself, but how you wear it and how it complements the rest of your outfit. Happy styling!
