Bow ties might be smaller than neckties, but they say a lot more. Whether you're going formal, semi-formal, or just want to stand out with style, the right bow tie can pull your whole outfit together. The wrong one? It can look like a costume piece.

At Buckle, we make Australian-crafted bow ties for all occasions, from weddings to work functions and everything in between. Here's how to pick the perfect one, every time.

1. Match the Tie to the Occasion

Weddings & Black Tie Events

• Stick with classic shades: black, navy, or deep burgundy.
  
  
• Silk or satin finishes give that polished edge.
  
  
• Self-tie bow ties offer tradition and authenticity — but pre-tied is perfectly acceptable if you're after speed and symmetry.

Work Events & Business Functions

• Go subtle but stylish — navy, charcoal, or even a pin-dot pattern.
  
  
• Cotton and textured weaves give a modern look without being flashy.
  
  
• Pre-tied options keep things clean, especially under pressure.
  
  

Smart Casual & Parties

• Play with colour and personality — mustard, forest green, deep red.
  
  
• Patterns like paisley, floral, or check bring character to a plain shirt.
  
  
• Lightweight fabrics like linen or cotton blends work well in relaxed settings.
  
  

Pro tip: When in doubt, go darker and simpler. It’s always easier to dress a bow tie up than tone one down.

2. Know the Difference: Self-Tie vs Pre-Tied

• Self-Tie:
  For traditionalists or those who like to do things properly. A self-tie bow tie gives you full control over shape and style. Great for weddings or black-tie dress codes.
  
  
• Pre-Tied:
  Easy, symmetrical, and always ready to go. Ideal for people who value convenience, or for settings where you’ll be in and out of jackets throughout the day.
  
  

At Buckle, we offer pre-tied options — with adjustable straps for a custom fit. 

3. Let Your Shirt & Lapels Guide You

Bow tie sizing is all about balance.

• If you're wearing a shirt with a narrow collar or slim-fit suit, opt for a smaller or slimmer bow tie.
  
  
• For wide-spread collars or jackets with broader lapels, go for a fuller bow tie to match the scale.
  
  

Rule of thumb: Your bow tie shouldn’t stretch past the outer corners of your eyes. Too big = cartoonish. Too small = unfinished.

4. Colour, Texture, and Confidence

There are no hard rules — just make sure it complements, not competes.

• Want a bold bow tie? Keep the shirt simple.
  
  
• Wearing a patterned shirt or textured jacket? Go solid or tonal with the bow tie.
  
  
• Matching your partner’s dress or outfit? Match tone, not necessarily exact colour — it feels intentional, not forced.
  
  

And remember — confidence is half the look. Own it.

Final Word

A bow tie isn’t just a finishing touch — it’s a statement piece that can set the tone for your entire outfit. With Buckle’s wide range of Australian-made bow ties, you can shop confidently for the perfect piece, no matter the event.

✔ Explore Buckle’s full bow tie collection here