How to Wear a Bowtie with a Suit: Suit Types, Collars, & Colors

When asking yourself if you can wear a bowtie with a suit, the answer is, generally, yes. It isn’t as straightforward as a simple yes, however. There are multiple points to consider when pairing a bowtie with a suit, ranging from the type and style of suit to the other accessories you’re pairing with it. It is easy to just throw it on and go, but with a little intention, and a few style tips, you’ll be wearing a bowtie with a suit with confidence.

Can a Bowtie Really be Worn with a Suit?

Can you wear a bowtie with a suit? What about tuxedos? Bowties aren’t just for tuxedos anymore. We’ve seen a true style shift in how men are wearing suits, and it goes beyond the need for formalwear. An occasion could call for something more formal like a tuxedo and bowtie, but now, instead of just aligning with the expectations of formalwear, men often see it as an opportunity to make a style statement and express themselves. Next time you are trying to decide on wearing the bowtie with the suit, don’t shy away. Plan to make intentional choices with the other pairings and pieces to create a put-together look while still being trend-forward. If you’re ever unsure of what works and what doesn’t, the stylists at Rush Wilson Limited are always available for consultations and custom styling sessions.

Choosing the Right Suit for a Bowtie

Pairing a bowtie with a suit is acceptable, and even encouraged, especially if you’ve picked the right suit to pair it with. There are a few different categories of suits to pick from: traditional, patterned, or casual. A classic, traditional, suit is usually navy, charcoal, or black. This is a safe option and the easiest to pair with a bowtie. Overall, the more formal the suit, the more classic the bowtie should be.

This style of suit is more polished in general, so adding in a bowtie is a great way to still keep the look traditional, but add a bit of your own personality. You can keep it simple with a solid color bowtie, or venture out a bit with a small, simple pattern that coordinates with the color of your suit. For example, a simple checkered pattern would likely pair well with a navy or black suit, depending on what colors are in the pattern.

If you’re looking to wear a bowtie with a patterned suit, it is best to opt for a solid bowtie. You already have the pattern in the suit, so a solid bowtie complements the pattern without overwhelming or competing with the pattern and overall look.

A casual suit, often linen or more relaxed, is less formal but allows room for more personality and character. You have the opportunity to select a more unique bowtie to serve as the focal point of the outfit. Since casual suits are often a solid color or more toned down in pattern, go with the textured or more unique-styled bowtie. You’ll accent the suit well, create a unique look, and feel confident with something that reflects your personality.

Collar Styles that Work with a Bowtie

The collar of your shirt definitely impacts the way a bowtie will work with your outfit. When considering how to wear a bowtie, consider the collar before selecting a bowtie. The spread collar is the ideal pairing because it gives the bowtie room to breathe. It is also easier to see, so you’ll be able to show off the bowtie, too.

A point collar can often feel overcrowded but, if done right, it can look polished. Be sure to select a bowtie that complements the suit and shape of the collar. The cutaway collar is a more bold choice and would pair well with a slim-style bowtie. A button-down collar pairs well with bowties. Along the east coast, and especially in the south, you’ll see that folks wearing suits do this pretty often.

Pairing Bowtie Colors & Patterns

The bowtie color and pattern itself plays a huge role in the overall look.

Whether it is a solid color or some sort of pattern, there are a few key style points to consider. If you’re going with a solid color bowtie, you’ll be able to easily match with your pocket square, shirt, or any accent colors in the suit. This is the most versatile route when deciding on a bowtie. If you’re interested in patterns, like dots, stripes, or paisley, pair this bowtie with a solid suit. This gives the bowtie its moment to make a statement. If you’re wanting to venture beyond matching, you can try coordinating based on complementary colors. Keep in mind that while the bowtie may not match perfectly, it should complement the overall look.

Another variation is the season. If you’re dressing for the spring or summer, consider lighter colors. If you’re pulling together an outfit for the fall or winter, lean more towards rich, jewel tones.

Style Tips to Tie it All Together

Considering all the pieces of a well-put-together outfit can be overwhelming. Consider these easy style tips and you’ll be headed in the right direction. Proportion matters when it comes to your bowtie. Make sure the bowtie width matches the lapel width. While pocket squares are optional, it could elevate the look and help tie it all together. The pocket square could pull in additional colors or patterns that complement the overall look. As always, confidence is going to be your best accessory. You make the look, the look does not make you.