Behind the Seams: The Anatomy of an R. Hanauer Bow Tie

R. Hanauer has been creating bow ties, cummerbunds, and neckties of the highest caliber since 1985. Each of our fine accessories is hand-cut from superior fabrics personally selected by Randy and Randall Hanauer and meticulously hand-sewn by our elite creative team in our South Carolina workshop.

To the untrained eye, the construction of a bow tie may seem straightforward. But peek behind the seams and you’ll find evidence of our team’s dedication to excellence, keen eye for detail, and unrelenting commitment to quality. There is nothing average about an R. Hanauer bow tie.

1. Metal Hook

High-quality bow tie hardware is essential to the durability, longevity, and aesthetic appeal of the pieces in your collection. Whereas off-the-rack bow ties are fastened with a simple hook and eye - or another mechanism that may chip, rust, bend, or break over time - R. Hanauer pieces feature a sturdy metal hook that easily and comfortably secures your bow tie in place.

For those keen to conceal their hardware (for example, when wearing a wingtip collar), consider a single-end bow tie.

2. Woven Label

All of our fine accessories feature a woven R. Hanauer label. Thoughtfully crafted, our labels assure the authenticity of your R. Hanauer piece, reinforce the luxury of our brand, and add a subtle nod of quality to your carefully-chosen gifts.

Close up of R. Hanauer Bow Tie woven label

3. Woven Cotton Blend Interior Lining

Low-quality bow ties use fusible lining – a man-made fabric that melts when heated, bonding layers of fabric together without sewing. The end result is a bow tie that looks spot-on for its first-time tie - and only so-so forever after.

At R. Hanauer, we use a non-fusible woven cotton blend lining that we cut on the bias and sew onto the bow tie fabric. While this process is significantly more time-consuming, the outcome justifies the means.

Our lining offers a soft yet sturdy foundation, helping you form a relaxed, classic knot that maintains its shape without feeling stiff or bulky.

Additionally, our lining choice enhances the durability of your R. Hanauer bow tie by protecting it from wear and tear, prolonging the lifespan of your accessory. Its stable texture minimizes wrinkling or shifting, ensuring the bow tie always looks polished and professional.

4. Fine Bias-Cut Fabric

Fine bias-cut fabric is essential to fit, flexibility, shape retention, and overall aesthetic. Cutting the fabric on the bias – diagonally across the grain – allows it to stretch slightly, giving the bow tie a smooth, natural drape that handsomely conforms to your collar.

At R. Hanauer, we select and source the world’s finest fabrics, and use a substantial amount in each of our bow ties. Cutting on the bias compromises our yield and increases our cost – a portion of fabric is left on the cutting room floor – but the benefits definitely outweigh the drawbacks. Each of our regular size bow ties consists of four strips of fabric, totaling 72 inches long.

Ironing a Bow Tie at the R. Hanauer workshop

5. Coated Metal Slider

Our coated metal slider is a small but crucial detail that adds both practicality and refinement to our bow ties.

It ensures smooth adjustments, durability, and a polished appearance. It will not tarnish, rust, or chip, which helps maintain its functionality, overall look, and longevity. Additionally, the smooth glide of a coated slider allows for exact fitting, enhancing comfort and preventing slippage during wear.

6. Woven Neckband

The woven neckband of an R. Hanauer bow tie serves two essential purposes – it helps when adjusting the bow tie to the correct size and it stabilizes the accessory. Along with the lining, the woven neckband means you’re unlikely to catch yourself in the mirror with a slack or crooked bow tie.

For 40 years, our bow ties have been the cornerstone in each of our celebrated, seasonal collections. Gentlemen from all over the world choose R. Hanauer bow ties, knowing that each is thoughtfully designed, masterfully crafted, and prioritizes your comfort and confidence.

Ready to step behind the curtain and watch how one of our bow ties is made?

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Show us your most prized R. Hanauer bow ties and fine accessories! Tag us on social media with #RHanauer – we’re on Instagram and Facebook. Need some guidance on making the perfect bow? Check out our How to Tie a Bow Tie video on YouTube!

And be sure to visit our blog, The Gentleman’s Guide, as well – it’s an excellent resource for all things sartorial.

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