Difference Between Neckties and Bow Ties

Neckties vs. Bow Ties

Neckties and bow ties are different types which is mainly differentiated in the lengths. Both a necktie and a bow tie are worn round the neck and comes in many patterns. Both of these ties are mainly used during formal gatherings or when going to the office.

First of all, let us look at a necktie. These ties are usually long and narrow. But the necktie is not that long to reach the waist. It is worn round the neck in a knot. The necktie is available in varying lengths, fabrics, and designs. The neckties are usually worn along with a suit to add splendor. A necktie is tied round the neck in different styles such as four-in-hand, half-Windsor, Windsor knot, and Pratt.

Now let us discuss a bow tie. A bow tie can be called a variant of the necktie. The bow tie is only a bow at the neck and is normally seen in the shape of a rainbow. This tie is usually tied around the collar. It is tied with a center knot which forms two symmetrical loops on the sides. The bow ties are available in several types such as clip-on bows and pre-tied bows.

When comparing the two, people prefer a necktie rather than a bow tie. Most of the people think that the bow tie makes them look like a funny character as comedians are seen to be generally wearing these ties. Moreover, people think that these bow ties do not look masculine.

Both the bow tie and the necktie have similar origins. The concept of the tie is known to have
originated among the Croatian mercenaries at the time of the European wars (17th century). A scarf was used by the Croats to hold together the opening of the shirt just around the neck. The upper class French people adopted this and named it as cravat. However, there is uncertainty if it was this cravat that had developed into a necktie or bow tie.

Summary:
1. A necktie is usually long and narrow. But the necktie is not that long to reach the waist. It is
worn round the neck in a knot.
2. The bow tie is only a bow at the neck and is normally seen in the shape of a rainbow.
This tie is usually tied around the collar. It is tied with a center knot which forms two
symmetrical loops on the sides.
3. When comparing the two, people prefer a necktie rather than a bow tie.