How to Choose a Necktie or Bow Tie for Groomsmen
By Bridesmaid Dresses & Gowns from $89 | Birdy Grey | Published: 2026-10-18
Category: How-to Guides
Decide between a necktie or bow tie for groomsmen with practical rules on formality, face shape, and coordination. Get fit guidance and color tips.
Quick Answer
Choose a bow tie for formal or vintage-style weddings and a necktie for modern or less formal events; match the color to your wedding palette and consider each groomsman's face shape.
Formality and Wedding Vibe
Bow ties signal a more formal or classic aesthetic, while neckties feel contemporary and relaxed. If your wedding is black-tie or garden-party vintage, a bow tie fits. For a modern or outdoor ceremony, a necktie often blends better with softer suits.
Face Shape and Comfort
Bow ties suit round or wider faces by adding vertical lines, while neckties flatter longer faces with horizontal width. Also consider comfort: pre-tied bow ties remove the tying struggle, but some groomsmen prefer the adjustability of a self-tie.
Decision Rules for Choosing a Tie
- Formality: Choose a bow tie for black-tie, formal, or vintage-themed weddings; choose a necktie for semi-formal, casual, or modern weddings.
- Face Shape: Pick a bow tie for groomsmen with round or wide faces to add length; pick a necktie for those with longer faces to add width.
- Comfort and Skill: If groomsmen are not comfortable tying a bow tie, choose a pre-tied option like the Dan Pre-Tied Bow Tie; otherwise, self-tie or necktie works. Ask groomsmen their preference before ordering.
- Color Coordination: Match the tie color to your wedding palette, using the same shades as bridesmaid dresses for a cohesive look. Order swatches to confirm colors against suits.
Groomsmen Tie Options
- Dan Pre Tied Bow Tie: The Dan Pre-Tied Bow Tie offers the polished look of a classic bow tie with the ease of a pre-tied design. Ideal for groomsmen who want a consistent, sharp appearance without practicing tying knots.
Dan Pre Tied Bow Tie - Simon Necktie: The Simon Necktie moves easily from wedding-day styling to everyday office wear. A versatile choice if groomsmen can reuse the tie after the wedding, adding practical value.
Simon Necktie
Who Should Choose Which
Best For
- Formal or vintage-themed weddings where a bow tie adds classic charm
- Groomsmen who prefer a polished look without tying effort
Not For
- Modern or outdoor weddings where a necktie feels more relaxed
- Groomsmen who want a tie they can wear to the office later
