The bow tie started as a clothing statement for men. This humble piece is a type of men’s necktie that’s made of a ribbon of fabric tied around the collar in asymmetrical manner such that the two opposite ends form loops.
It served both as a fashion statement, a sign to distinguish between classes and as a symbol for affluence and sophistication. Today, bowties are worn for a distinguishably fashion conscious look. They can be either big or small and not only the men folk are benefiting from it but women are sporting it in different ways.
Bow ties may be made of any fabric material, but most are made from cotton, silk, polyester, or a mixture of fabrics. Nigerians designers are taking this cute piece to another level by making different kinds of bow ties from our ever famous African wax print – the ankara. We love what Ituen Basi has done with it.
Here are different ways to make the bow tie more interesting . . .
As the conventional neck tie: wear this with a smart fitted shirt (tucked in) when you feel like sporting a corporate ‘boyish’ look.
As a brooch this stylish piece can be attached to plain t- shirts, but please coordinate your colours well. Use a brightly coloured bow tie brooch on a plain top, not on an equally bright coloured top. You can choose to sport a giant piece or a tiny cute one like Nollywood actress Stephanie Okereke did.
As a hand bag or clutch accessory: many bag designers are aware of the fact that the bow tie is a beauty and are working it. some bags are already made with the bow tie. Otherwise, you can get creative and attach this fun piece to bags made of wicker basket, felt or other friendly materials.
As hair accessory: the hair is a woman’s crowning glory and needs to be treated as such. Hence, adorning the hair with exquisite accessories will do it good. The bow tie is great for natural or curly hair but looks just as gorgeous on other hair types.
The hair bow tie comes with an alligator hair clip and can be placed at the side of the hair or at the back. It can also come with black hair elastic in lieu of the alligator clip.
So don’t be left behind in this bow tie bandwagon. You can as well get creative and make your own piece yourself.
-Bola Oyedele
-Photocredit: 3stitches.com/stephanieokereke.net
Founded in 2007, Ladybrille® Magazine is a California based pioneer digital publication demystifying the image of Africans in the west through contemporary African fashion and celebrating the brilliant woman in business and leadership, with an emphasis on the African woman in the diaspora. Our coverage includes stories on capital, access to markets, expertise, hiring and retention, sales, marketing, and promotions.
