Before you can step out and wow your significant other/colleagues/adoring public/etc., you’ve got to tie that tie. We’ve been there, and we know it’s a daunting prospect. But it doesn’t need to be. Because once you get the hang of it, it’s actually a pretty simple process. Watch this video to see the whole thing boiled down to just five easy-to-follow steps:
So, you have to tie a bow tie. Whether it’s for a wedding or a gala or the premiere of your first major motion picture (hey, it could happen), it’s the only sort of neckwear that’s formal enough to complement that great tux you just put on.
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Still confused? Don’t worry. Let’s break it down—with GIFs!
Start by draping the bow tie over your neck, with the left side hanging slightly longer than the right.
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Step 1: Cross the longer end over the shorter end and pull it under and through the neck loop to form a knot.
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Step 2: Now fold the shorter end (which until now has just been hanging out) up to form the front part of the bow.
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Step 3: Bring the longer end over the center of the bow and hold it in place.
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Step 4: Pinch the bow together and pull it slightly out from your neck to expose the small hole that’s been formed behind it. Then fold the longer end into a bow shape and then pull it through that hole.
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Step 5: Tighten the bow, adjust as necessary to make sure both sides are even, and you’re good to go.
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That wasn’t too hard, right?
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