How-to

Tie a Self-Tie Bow Tie in Eight Steps: Make the Bow, Find the Back Loop

A beginner-friendly knot to practise before a wedding or formal occasion. Based on the original The Tie Bar and Charles Tyrwhitt guides, from offsetting the two ends to adjusting the second bow through the hidden loop.

6 min read2026-10-27

Self-tie bow tie tutorial embedded in The Tie Bar's original guide

Save

OriginalCharles Tyrwhitt's illustrated bow-tie stepsCharles Tyrwhitt · Original publisher

Your style checklist

Check each item as you go.

0/12 done

Progress is saved only on this device (30 days).

01

What you need

One self-tie bow tie
A collared dress shirt
Mirror
A few minutes of practice

02

How to

1. Put on a comfortable collared shirt and drape an adjustable self-tie bow tie around the neck. Leave one end about 2 inches (5 cm) longer than the other; starting with equal ends makes the knot harder to form.
2. Cross the long end over the short one. Bring it up through the gap between the tie and your neck to make the first loose knot, then temporarily rest that long end over your shoulder.
3. Fold the broad section of the shorter hanging end horizontally to form the wings of the first bow. Hold the center against the front of your collar.
4. Bring the long end down from your shoulder, laying it vertically over the center of that first bow. This hanging strip will become the band around the knot.
5. Pull the sides of the first bow forward slightly to reveal a small opening behind it, near the collar. Fold the wide part of the long end into the wings of a second bow.
6. Push the folded part of the long end halfway through that little back opening. Do not pull the whole end through: the folded loop should remain to form the second bow.
7. Gently tighten by alternately pulling the opposing front and back bow loops. Make small adjustments rather than tugging all at once so the knot keeps its shape.
8. In a mirror, check the width, position, and balance of the two bows. They need not be mathematically identical, but the collar should feel comfortable and the knot secure. Lower your collar and practise once more before the event.

One more tip

This is for an adjustable self-tie bow tie, not a pre-tied clip or ready-made bow. Begin with a comfortable collar and practise before the event rather than tightening it painfully around your neck.

Sources and media

OriginalThe Tie Bar's original video and eight-step instructionsThe Tie Bar · Original publisher

K-fashion · winter fleece care · November 20268 min

Two KOLON SPORT FW26 Fleeces, Two Care Labels: Six Practical Checks

A Korean outdoor label's wool-blend hooded fleece and colorblock stand-collar jacket need different care. Compare verified fabric compositions, everyday styling and wash instructions before choosing.