How to Tie a Bow Tie

Less than 1% of adult men in the U.S. can tie their own bow tie. Lucky for the rest, it's about as easy as tying a normal tie. The toughest part is deciding to give it a try! Then practice, practice, practice. The more reps the better, just like a normal tie. Plus, tying your own Air Force Mess Dress Bowtie is rewarding!

While there are many videos and instructions online, we put one of the best ones in our How-To section on this website.

STEP 1

Start with the bowtie lying face up. Adjust the bow tie so right side is shorter than the left.

STEP 2

Move the longer end over the top of and across the shorter end.

STEP 3

Bring the longer end under the shorter end and up through the neck loop.

S

TEP 4

At the joint, fold the shorter end towards the right and then towards the left to create a the bow shape.

STEP 5

Bring the longer end straight down over the middle of the bow shape that was made with the shorter end.

STEP 6

Fold the longer end back towards the chest and pinch the fold.

STEP 7

Push the pinched end (longer end) th

rough the loop behind the bow shape (shorter end).

STEP 8

Pull on the folded parts of the bow to tighten.

STEP 9

Adjust until balanced on both sides.