Be discreet and explore the world of bow ties

The menswear business as we know it is going towards being more casual and the bow tie is for some an unimaginable accessory. Maybe you wore it when you were younger because you wanted to stand out in school or just wanted to try something new. You probably had it in some very bright colours as well and might regret wearing it today, in hindsight. Most people associate the bow tie to the old professor at university (Bill Nye for instance) or that crazy guy who always wears absurd colours and patterns. I don’t blame them, often that’s the case. The black bow tie is of course the exception here as it a core pillar of the modern smoking.

Okay, you have this vision of how it is supposed to look like. Scratch all that. Start fresh. Today, bow ties can be discreet and look great in less formal situations and outfits. I want you to imagine a bow tie in 100% wool combined with a tweed jacket and some flannel trousers. Do you go for the strong colour pallets here? No, you don’t. At least not in the beginning if you feel like the bow tie isn’t for you. You chose a sober colour like olive green, charcoal grey or why not a darker brown. This would look great in the right colour combinations depending on jacket and trousers. As time goes and you get more comfortable, I would suggest you wonder out to see what fits you best.

Tweed jacket and flannel trousers are still quite formal would some argue, so instead imagine that you’re wearing some wide cut dad jeans with a pair of boots in dark brown, a denim shirt in mid navy blue with a button-down collar. Then, add a bow tie in a darker brown shantung colour, as pictured below and seen here. You will surely look a bit more dressed but combined with a great raglan coat in the same brown colour and you’ve got yourself a stunning outfit.

Click here to purchase the bow tie

When writing this article, I searched around on google trying to find what others have written about the bow tie. What I found was a sort of consensus that it is not for the “ordinary” man. It’s a statement, something asymmetrical and only the “brave” man do. I strongly disagree and that is why I challenge you, the reader, to try and use a bow tie with a more casual outfit! Try your best using ones you have, trying on some at stores or buying new ones. With bow ties the possibilities are endless!

Here is some inspiration:

Bow tie: Click here    Pocket square: Click here 

Above & below: Adam Falkman (employee) IG – @adamfalkman

Bow tie: only available in store   Pocket square: click here

Above: Stephan E. IG – @hozzenplozz

We would very much enjoy seeing what you guys come up with. Upload your outfits on Instagram and tag your posts with the hashtag #granqvistbowtie to have a chance to get a shoutout from us!

Adam Falkman of Granqvist Store