When it comes to wedding suits and formalwear, it’s often the finishing touches that bring the entire look together. A well-chosen tie or bow tie doesn’t just complete your outfit — it sets the tone for your day, reflects your personality, and elevates your overall groom style. Whether you’re planning a black-tie celebration, a relaxed Hunter Valley wedding, or a modern Newcastle city soiree, understanding the different options available will help you feel confident and considered in your choice. But there are so many different types of bowties and ties to choose from on your big day, that it can be confusing to navigate.
At Rundle Tailoring, we guide couples through every detail of their suit styling, helping brides and grooms select the perfect finishing pieces to complement their wedding suit. Below, we break down the types of bowties and ties worth considering, with modern style references and practical tips to help you decide.
Types of Bowties and Ties
What Is The Most Traditional Style of Bow Tie?
AS WORN BY LEONARDO DI CAPRIO
The classic butterfly bow tie remains one of the most popular types of bowties for wedding suits. Its balanced proportions suit a wide range of face shapes and jacket styles.
STYLE TIP: A safe yet stylish choice for traditional wedding suits, particularly for anyone seeking timeless elegance.
What Is a Diamond Point Bow Tie?
AS WORN BY ADAM BRODY
Defined by its pointed ends, the diamond point bow tie offers a subtle twist on the classic silhouette. It adds interest without straying too far from convention.
STYLE TIP: If you’ve chosen a classic suit style, wearing a diamond point bow tie means adding a unique detail that still feels formal. This option pairs beautifully with tuxedos and dinner suits.
How To Wear a Jumbo Butterfly Bow Tie?
AS WORN BY PATRICK SCHWARZENEGGER
Bold and statement-making, the jumbo butterfly bow tie is for grooms who aren’t afraid to stand out. Its exaggerated proportions add drama and confidence to formalwear. We even have our own version of this trending style. Dubbed ‘The Rundle Bow’, it’s a similar oversized silhouette but with a softer drape which makes it a little easier to wear. It’s handmade on-site by our talented seamstress, Peta.
STYLE TIP: Best suited to tall frames or strong-shouldered jackets. Let this piece shine by keeping accessories minimal.
What Is a Batwing Bow Tie?
AS WORN BY JEREMY ALLEN WHITE
Sleek and understated, the batwing bow tie features straight, narrow ends and a refined profile. It’s a favourite among those who prefer subtle elegance over bold statements.
STYLE TIP: A versatile option for both black-tie and semi-formal wedding suits, it’s a finishing touch that works well when the fuller butterfly styles don’t complement your outfit or build.
Can You Wear a Butterfly Bow Tie With a Wing Tip Dinner Shirt?
AS WORN BY OSCAR ISAAC
This is traditional black-tie styling at its finest. The butterfly bow tie paired with a wing tip dinner shirt creates a structured, formal aesthetic that remains timeless. Our team can show you exactly how to style it so that you feel confident and put-together, and you’ll look flawless in all your wedding photography.
STYLE TIP: Ideal for classic black-tie wedding suits and evening receptions. This combination is particularly popular for formal Newcastle weddings and elegant Hunter Valley vineyard celebrations.
Can You Wear a Wing Tip Collar Shirt Without a Bow Tie?
AS WORN BY PAUL MESCAL AND JOE ALWYN
For a fashion-forward take on formalwear, some grooms are opting to skip the bow tie altogether. A wing collar shirt worn open or minimally styled can feel contemporary and relaxed.
STYLE TIP: This works best for editorial-inspired weddings and confident dressers. Ensure tailoring and fabric quality are impeccable to maintain a polished look.
What Is a Western Ribbon Bow Tie?
AS WORN BY JESSE PLEMONS
The Western ribbon bow tie is a softer, more relaxed take on traditional formalwear. Characterised by its loose, trailing ends, it brings a sense of understated elegance and individuality. This style works beautifully for couples seeking something distinctive and romantic, especially if the suit is the statement and you want the accessories to speak quietly.
STYLE TIP: Ideal for creative black-tie weddings or modern Newcastle weddings where personality is encouraged. Best paired with a sharp dinner jacket to complement the chic softness.
What Is a String Tie?
AS WORN BY WALTON GOGGINS
Minimal and unconventional, the string tie is having a quiet resurgence in contemporary formalwear. Often associated with artistic or fashion-forward dressers, it offers a refined alternative for those wanting to break tradition.
STYLE TIP: Perfect for grooms planning relaxed formalwear looks for Hunter Valley weddings or fashion-led ceremonies. Keep the rest of the outfit clean and tailored to avoid overpowering the simplicity of the tie (or go big and bold like Walton Goggins at the 2026 Golden Globes, whose rock’n’roll style perfectly suited the modern cool of a string tie).
Can You Wear A Bolo Tie To A Wedding?
Traditionally associated with Western or rustic style, the bolo tie adds a distinctive, individual touch. When styled thoughtfully, it can elevate a suit for a wedding without feeling out of place.
STYLE TIP: Best suited to outdoor, destination, or themed weddings where personal flair is welcome. Pair with a tailored suit or blazer, keep the clasp understated, and consider adding a classic felt hat from Akubra for a refined, cohesive look.
How Do You Style a Skinny Necktie?
AS WORN BY CONNOR STORRIE
A modern classic, the skinny tie offers a streamlined, youthful silhouette. It’s a popular choice for grooms seeking a contemporary edge while still maintaining formality.
STYLE TIP: Works well with slimmer-cut wedding suits and lighter fabrics. A strong option for summer weddings or city-based Newcastle weddings.
How Do You Style a Retro Printed Necktie?
AS WORN BY OMAR APOLLO
Printed neck ties bring colour, texture, and personality to wedding styling. Retro patterns are especially popular for creative couples and relaxed celebrations, and it’s a trend we’re seeing more of lately.
STYLE TIP: Best for daytime weddings or less formal settings. Play it safe and keep the suit neutral to allow the tie to stand out, or go big and let us help you find the right colour and pattern combination to make a bold statement but still look artfully put-together.
Are Traditional Neckties Over For Weddings?
AS WORN BY MICHAEL B. JORDAN
Definitely not! A classic for a reason, the traditional necktie is timeless and versatile; a staple in wedding formalwear that has more than earned its place. It offers endless options in fabric, colour, and texture, and can be worn again and again (making it a very smart investment indeed).
STYLE TIP: Perfect for grooms wanting classic elegance, an option that’s less formal than a bowtie, or that are coordinating with groomsmen across a variety of body types and suit styles.
Do People Still Wear Cravats For Weddings?
Channelling old-world European elegance, the cravat offers a timeless alternative to mainstream ties and bow ties. Its rich history and distinctive drape make it a striking choice for anyone who wants a refined, unconventional look.
STYLE TIP: Perfect for weddings with a classic or European-inspired aesthetic. At Rundle Tailoring, we can custom make them according to your colour palette, fabrics and the distinct look you want to achieve. A cravat pairs beautifully with tailored suits and can be styled to reflect your personal flair.
Bowties and Wedding Suit FAQs
What types of bowties suit a black-tie wedding?
A classic butterfly bowtie in black silk or satin is an elegant choice for a black-tie wedding. Paired with a tuxedo or peak-lapel dinner suit, it delivers a timeless, formal look that aligns with traditional evening dress codes. Our team regularly styles black-tie wedding suits for Newcastle and Hunter Valley weddings, and butterfly bowties are always a popular choice. If you want a more trend-driven option, the jumbo butterfly bowtie — a slightly oversized style — is a fashionable choice. Our version is called “the Rundle Bow”; it’s a similar shape to the jumbo butterfly but with a softer drape. The Rundle Bow is handmade on-site by our talented seamstress, Peta.
Should the groom’s bowtie match the wedding suit or the theme?
There are so many decisions on the wedding journey, both big and small. Working to a theme, colour palette or moodboard helps ensure a cohesive look and feel on the day. Those finishing touches, like what bowtie you’ll wear with your suit? Definitely a decision which is made easier by having a clear vision. At Rundle Tailoring, our expertise goes beyond fitting the suit to helping you select the finishing touches to complete your look. Our team have seen every kind of moodboard, location and theme in the world of weddings, and they know precisely what will work based on our range of ties, bowties, pocket squares, cufflinks and more. Colour, fabric and finish can subtly reflect the theme while still allowing the groom’s look to feel elevated and intentional.
Are bowties or neck ties more formal for weddings?
Bowties are more formal than neck ties, especially for black-tie or evening weddings. Neck ties, however, are perfectly appropriate for modern, daytime or relaxed formal weddings and can feel more contemporary. The right choice depends on the dress code, venue and personal style. For example, choosing a neck tie in the same colour as your suit and shirt delivers an impactful and on-trend monochrome look, while selecting a retro-patterned option gives that fashionably nostalgic vibe popularised by Gucci and Ralph Lauren.
What bowtie and tie brands do you stock?
We have all types of bowties from James Adelin, Collezione, Alvajee, Otaa, Carlo Visconti, Cambridge, Joe Black, Philippe Anton and Peggy & Finn. We also have a wide range of custom-made bowties, hand crafted by our in-house seamstress Peta in a variety of shapes and fabrics. If you have an idea in mind and want to create something unique, talk to us!
We also stock neckties from Otaa, Hardy Amies, James Harper, Alvajee, Collezione, Buckle and Peggy & Finn.
Do groomsmen need to wear the same bowtie as the groom?
Groomsmen don’t need to wear identical bowties to the groom, but their looks should feel coordinated (for example, at black tie weddings, the bridal party all tend to have the same look, but the groom’s suit is Made-to-Measure and the grooms party have matching ready-to-wear or formal hire suits). A common approach is keeping the same style while varying colour or texture, allowing the groom’s outfit to stand out subtly. This creates a cohesive bridal party without being overly uniform. You could also put the groom in a bowtie and the bridal party in neck ties. Alternatively, many of our wedding parties differentiate between the groom and the wedding party by opting for different jacket styles — the groom might choose a peak or shawl lapel on a double-breasted jacket, while the rest of the party wears the traditional notch lapel, single-breasted jacket — or by adding a vest to the groom’s ensemble.
Can brides wear bowties or neck ties with tailored suits?
Absolutely! Bowties and neck ties can be a powerful styling choice for brides wearing tailored suits. Some of our brides have opted for western ribbon bowties or bolo ties for a fresh look. At Rundle Tailoring, we style wedding suits for all genders and identities with the same level of care and expertise.
What shirt collar works best with a bowtie?
Wing tip and classic collars work best with bowties, depending on the formality of the wedding. Wing tip collars are the more “black-tie” option, while classic, straight point collars are versatile and suit most modern wedding formalwear. The right pairing ensures the bowtie sits neatly and frames the face. At the 2026 Golden Globe Awards, Oscar Isaac wore a wing tip collar and bow tie, while Joe Alwyn and Paul Mescal both wore the wing tip shirt on its own.
Is it acceptable to skip a tie altogether for a wedding suit?
Yes, skipping a tie can work beautifully for relaxed or contemporary weddings. A crisp shirt, well-tailored suit and thoughtful accessories like a pocket square can still feel polished and intentional. This approach is especially popular for summer weddings and outdoor ceremonies.
Are pre-tied or self-tie bowties better for weddings?
Self-tie bowties are great for weddings as they offer a more authentic, refined finish. They allow for slight imperfections that add character and charm. But pre-tied options still look excellent when well-made, particularly for those new to formalwear or who don’t want to fuss on the day. Lots of our grooms buy a pre-tied bowtie for the ceremony and then replace it with a self-tie option, hanging undone around their neck, later in the evening. It looks cool but still elegant on the dancefloor.
Wedding Suit Styling in Newcastle and the Hunter Valley
Choosing between the different types of bowties and ties comes down to your venue, wedding style, and body shape. Whether you’re planning a refined Hunter Valley wedding or a contemporary Newcastle celebration, the right finishing touch will elevate your entire look.
The best way to choose the right bow tie or tie is to come in and try them on. You’ll know the moment you put the right one on. Bowties are all about proportion, and not every shape suits every body type. For example, a larger bowtie tends to work best on a broader shoulder while a slimmer style suits a finer frame. We stock a wide range of bow ties and ties in store, and our team can help you find the perfect finishing touch for your wedding suit.
We specialise in wedding suits for men and women, as well as formalwear, offering expert guidance to help you bring your vision to life. From selecting your suit to choosing the perfect bow tie or neck tie, our team ensures every detail feels authentically you.
If you’re newly engaged and beginning to plan your wedding, we invite you to book a consultation with Australia’s #1 for wedding suit fashion and explore your options with our multi award-winning team.