Need a Fashion Fix? Try Changing How You Wear Your Tie

    The Shirt Box 2Here’s everything you need to know about Rod Brown: He’s a fan of the bow tie. And he wants you to try one.

    Well, there is lots more to know. But we think Brown, co-owner of Farmington Hills-based The Shirt Box, has a lot of fashion sense. So here is the second installment in his “Dressing for Men Made Easy” series of articles for Corp! Share your thoughts!

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    What is the right way to tie your tie? The one thing to remember is that there really is no one correct way.

    Tie 2That being said, there are certainly many wrong ways! The manner in which you tie your tie might also be dictated by the event – say work or play. Fancy knots like the “Eldridge” are a fun way to knot a tie for play, but do require a lot of practice.

    No matter what kind of knot you tie, one basic element remains the same, namely: the length of the tie. A proper fitting tie length should hit you at the waist or in the beltline.

    Here are just a few knots worth noting.  The “four in hand” provides a clean and simple slip knot. It’s an easy wrap-around and come down and through. If you don’t like the way the top of the tied tie is sloped with that knot, then try the half-windsor. This will give you a knot where the top of the tied tie is perpendicular to the ground giving you that perfect “V” shape. A bit more time is needed to tie, but it is not really more complicated. If you find this knot is difficult, go to “The Shirt Box” YouTube page to master this beauty.

    Box tieThis takes me to one of the hottest trends in men’s fashions right now: The bow tie! And I’m not talking about the pre-tied bowties that clip around your neck! Tying a self-tie bow tie is as easy as tying your shoes. The eye/hand coordination is a bit different, but with a little practice, you will master it!

    One of the best things about wearing a self-tie bow tie is undoing it near the end of the day or event and leaving it hanging around your neck untied. Very cool! Again, check out our page on YouTube for an easy tutorial.

    When in doubt, ask your haberdasher!