How to Choose a Bow Tie Gift He’ll Actually Wear

In this guide, you’ll learn how to select the perfect bow tie gift with ease — from understanding self-tie versus pre-tied styles and choosing the right shape and pattern, to finding options that fit beautifully and match his personal aesthetic. With expert tips, curated sets, elegant packaging, and timely delivery, R. Hanauer makes gifting a bow tie as effortless as it is meaningful.

----------------

A thoughtfully chosen bow tie is a gift of distinction – refined, personal, and enduring. It marks occasions with a touch of elegance he’ll enjoy for years to come. Yet many shoppers hesitate, unsure of what to choose, how sizing works, or how much to spend.

In truth, selecting the right bow tie gift is far simpler than it seems. With a few guiding principles you can gift a bow tie with complete confidence.

In this guide, you’ll find clear, practical advice for choosing a bow tie gift he’ll genuinely enjoy wearing, along with thoughtful gift ideas, curated gift sets, convenient gift cards, and R. Hanauer’s signature presentation and shipping services.

Selecting the Right Type of Bow Tie: Self-Tie vs. Pre-Tied

When choosing your bow tie gift, deciding between a self-tie and a pre-tied style is an important first step. While both have their place, each offers a distinct experience for the wearer.

A self-tie bow tie is the traditional choice – and the one most men prefer. It allows him to shape the bow to his liking, gives the knot its natural character, and reflects the quiet satisfaction of tying it himself. Even those who have never tied a bow tie before can learn quickly with a bit of practice, and many find the process deeply satisfying once familiar. 

A pre-tied bow tie, while less common in fine menswear, can be appropriate in certain circumstances: for younger wearers, for individuals with limited mobility, or when someone simply prefers a fixed bow.

Choosing a Style He’ll Enjoy Wearing

Once you've chosen your preferred bow tie type, the next criteria is personal style – the very heart of thoughtful bow tie gift ideas. A bow tie should complement the way the recipient already dresses – not reinvent it – which makes the selection process pleasantly straightforward. 

We have a few easy bow tie beginner choices on our "Gift a Bow Tie" page, but if he prefers a more classic look, consider timeless patterns and fabrics: refined stripes, small-scale geometrics, tasteful paisleys, or rich solids. These designs pair easily with suits, blazers, and button-downs, ensuring the bow tie becomes a natural part of his wardrobe.

If he gravitates toward bolder expression, a distinctive motif or tasteful floral can be an excellent choice. A well-designed bow tie allows him to express his personality without overwhelming the look.

For most men, versatility is key. A bow tie in a balanced color palette – navy, red, green, black, or classic neutrals – will be suitable for a wide range of occasions, from cocktail parties and weddings to holiday gatherings and professional events.

Above all, choose a design that feels like him. When the pattern and color palette aligns with his existing wardrobe, he’ll reach for your gift often and with confidence.

Getting the Fit Right

A well-fitting bow tie is comfortable, balanced, and proportionate.

R. Hanauer bow ties are fully adjustable, allowing them to accommodate a wide range of neck sizes. This means you do not need to know his exact measurements to select the correct bow tie. The discreet slider ensures a secure fit that stays in place, offering comfort throughout the day or evening.

Showing how an R. Hanauer bow tie slider helps to adjust the size for the perfect neck fit.

Beyond neck size, proportion is essential. The shape of the bow should complement the wearer’s face shape, collar height, and overall build:

• Classic proportions (around 2.25"–2.5" tall) suit most men and pair well with standard dress shirts. At R. Hanauer, this includes The Henry and The Phillip, ideal for both everyday wear and formal bow tie gifts.

• Slightly larger bows can flatter broader faces, taller collars, or those who enjoy a more pronounced silhouette. At R. Hanauer, this corresponds to The Stuart, our boldest butterfly. 

• More tailored, narrower options work well for slimmer builds, modern wardrobes, or a streamlined, understated look. In this category, The Stanley and The Jackson provide a refined, minimalist silhouette, while The Louie adds a subtle touch of angular interest without excess volume.

This page gives you a visual overview of the different bow tie shapes. 

Choosing a Bow Tie Within Your Budget

Quality is one of the most important considerations when gifting a bow tie, and it doesn’t require an extravagant budget. A well-made bow tie will outlast trends, wear beautifully, and become a lasting part of his wardrobe – often at a far more approachable price than many expect.

At R. Hanauer, every bow tie is handmade in Fort Mill, SC, using exceptional materials and superior construction. The majority of our classic, versatile pieces fall comfortably under $100, making them ideal for thoughtful and accessible bow tie gifts that don’t compromise craftsmanship or budget.

For occasions that call for a coordinated presentation, a bow tie + pocket square gift set is an elegant option. A complementary pocket square adds versatility and makes styling simple, especially for recipients who appreciate a polished, ready-to-wear look.

Helping Him Style His New Bow Tie

Thoughtful styling guidance can make your bow tie gift even more appreciated.

• Start with a well-fitted dress shirt. A classic point collar or spread collar frames the bow tie beautifully, while a button-down collar offers a relaxed, traditional look. Crisp white, pale blue, and subtle checks pair effortlessly with most patterns.

• Consider his jacket preferences. Bow ties complement both structured suit coats and more casual sport coats. Solid navy, charcoal, brown, or seasonal tweeds provide an elegant backdrop that lets the bow tie take center stage.

• Mix patterns with intention. If the bow tie carries a bold motif or a strong color statement, pair it with simpler shirts and jackets. Conversely, a more understated bow tie pairs handsomely with classic checks, stripes, and textured fabrics.

• Coordinate without being overly matched. A pocket square should complement the bow tie rather than mimic it. This distinction keeps the look modern and considered, and offers him the freedom to bring personality into the ensemble.

Presenting Your Gift

A thoughtfully selected bow tie deserves an equally thoughtful presentation – and a beautifully packaged bow tie gift box makes all the difference.

All of our bow ties are hand-packaged in a branded black box with a clear lid. The bow tie box is wrapped in custom tissue and sealed with a gold foil R. Hanauer sticker – a simple, elegant touch that signifies craftsmanship and attention to detail.

If you wish to include a personal message, simply type your note into the “Special instructions” field at checkout. Your words will be enclosed with the gift, providing a personal touch without requiring extra steps.

Shipping, Turnaround & Holiday Deadlines

Timeliness is an essential part of giving a bow tie gift.

Standard orders placed before noon ship the same day. Orders placed after noon are completed and shipped the following business day. This ensures your gift arrives promptly while maintaining the quality associated with a hand-cut, hand-sewn bow tie.

Monogrammed items may require additional time, as each personalization is completed to order. Even so, every effort is made to honor quick turnaround without compromising detail.

For holiday gifting, it is especially important to note the final shipping window. The last day to place a 2025 order for Christmas delivery is Friday, December 19, using UPS Next Day Service. Ordering earlier is always recommended.

No matter the season, our reliable fulfillment ensures that your gift arrives when it matters most – beautifully made, carefully packaged, and right on time.

When a Bow Tie Gift Card Is the Perfect Choice

For the gentleman with a well-defined sense of style - or for the gifter who prefers to let him choose the perfect fine accessory - an bow tie gift card is a thoughtful and elegant solution.

It offers the freedom to explore a full range of bow ties, neckties, pocket squares, cummerbund sets, and other accessories – all handcrafted with the care that defines every R. Hanauer design.

Gift cards are delivered electronically, making them ideal for both planned occasions and last-minute gifting. Each digital card includes a unique code applied at checkout, allowing him to select the pattern, color, and shape that best suit his wardrobe.

Questions? We’re Here to Help!

If you’re still deciding between styles or need guidance, the R. Hanauer team is always happy to assist. Our expert staff knows our collection intimately and can help with questions about shapes, patterns, proportions, or finding the right gift for a particular occasion. A short conversation often provides all the clarity you need to choose with confidence.

For style inspiration, we invite you to explore R. Hanauer on Facebook and Instagram, where you’ll find outfit ideas, seasonal favorites, and a closer look at how our customers wear their fine accessories in everyday life. It’s an excellent way to discover new bow tie gift ideas and see color, pattern, and craftsmanship in context.

We’re honored to help you select a gift he’ll enjoy for years to come!