Bow ties have become fashionable again and many men are wearing them not only for formal occasions like weddings or black-tie events but also as a suave accessory for casual ensembles.
They usually come in a variety of styles including ones with large wings (butterfly), narrow wings (batwing bows) and pointed ends. The standard bow tie (self-tie) usually consists of a strip of fabric tied around the collar in a symmetrical manner such that the two opposite ends form loops or bows.
Ready-tied bow ties are also commonplace, albeit frowned upon by old school bow tie users. This type eliminates the need for the wearer to make the knot himself and usually features a bow attached on an elastic band with clasps on the ends to easily secure on the back of the collar. Another ready-tied variety is the clip-on which has a mechanism that can be easily clipped to the front of the collar.
Silk, polyester, and cotton are usually used for traditional bow ties but more current ones are made from a variety of fabrics and not just limited to the usual black, white or plain colors. Patterned bow ties are currently very fashionable for casual dressing.
When sending out a bow tie, it must be properly packed to avoid wrinkles and creases that may disfigure the item. Here are some tips on how to properly pack and ship a bow tie to ensure that it arrives in excellent condition.
Never ship a knotted self-tie. The best way to ship a self-tie bow tie is to un-knot it first, flatten it a bit and roll it loosely before placing inside a small box. There are wooden boxes that are specially designed to store bow ties. These boxes come in different sizes to accommodate single or multiple ties and prevent them from getting compressed. Flattie boxes can also be used. Instead of rolling the tie, fold it lengthwise and place it in a flattie box.
Use tissue paper or bubble wrap to fill any spaces in the box to prevent the tie from moving. Double box it in a sturdy shipping box with packing materials on all sides, top and bottom.
Ready-tied bows can be simply placed in a small box, filled with shredded paper or bubble wrap to prevent movement and double boxed.
Make sure to seal the shipping box and secure all openings and seams with packaging tape. Address and label and take to a local shipping company or post office.