The formal bow tie - either hand-tied or with a band - should be a medium width and height, fitting neatly over the tips of the wing collar shirt. Ends may be pointed or square. Traditional elegance requires a bow tie in black grosgrain - a closely woven corded fabric or rayon and cotton - or slightly textured black silk. Today, for formal occasions, many men express their individuality by matching the color or pattern of their bow tie and cummerbund.

Remember: A cummerbund should always be worn with the pleats facing upward.

1. Adjust the tie so that one end is slightly longer than the other, crossing the long end over the short.

2. Bring the long end through the center at the neck

3. Form an angle loop with the short end of the tie crossing left. Drop the long end at the neck over this horizontal loop.

4. Form a similar angle loop with the loose long end of the tie and push this loop through the short loop.

5. Tighten knot by adjusting the ends of both loops.