A Guide To Picking The Right Red Bow-Tie

Did you think learning how to tie a bow-tie was the tough part? Try pulling it off in an audacious color like red. The intrinsically in-your-face quirkiness of the bow-tie, accentuated by the bold hue, makes it hard to pair with just any old suit. But as it is with most things that call for a little extra effort, taking the time to get it just right is well-worth the effort.

The easiest way to pick the right red bow-tie is to start with the color of your suit and go from there.

Black Suit

Bow Tie: Dark Burgundy (if at all)

Strictly for black-tie affairs and somber occasions, a black suit shouldn’t be worn lightly, and your tie needs to be as equally serious. Only on occasions of frivolity should you break out your bow-tie (think tuxedo rather than business suit) and even then, a burgundy tie so dark it could be mistaken for black is as colorful as you should get.

White Suit

Bow Tie: Wine Red

Let’s be clear: in no case should a full white suit be paired with a red bow-tie. An ivory jacket, however, paired with a crisp white shirt and black pants is a the type of sartorial twist on a standard suit that makes a rich red bow-tie the cherry on top.

Gray Suit

Bow Tie: Plaid

A gray, wool suit can be charmingly rustic when paired with a plaid bow-tie (bonus points if it’s a three-piece suit). When wearing an outfit with a bold personality, pay attention to details. Balance your statement tie with a solid pocket square and coordinate the leathers of your belt, watchband and brogues.

Navy Suit

Bow Tie: Printed

Navy and red is a classic combination, but as menswear doesn’t often incorporate so much color it can be overwhelming to wear the two together. The key to not looking too color-blocked is to opt for a printed tie that will add texture. A light blue shirt will soften the look while a coordinating red pocket square will pull it all together.

Don’t let the bold hue and eccentric attitude of a red bow-tie stop you from wearing one. Follow our guide to picking the right one for your suit and you’ll be good to go.

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