BOWS-N-BEARDS

What Bow Tie Goes with Which Beard Style?

Friendly Mutton Chops: You're a nice guy with a bristly bush of well-mannered mutton chops and a heart of gold. A classic butterfly bow tie in a height of 2"-3" is a fine addition to your friendly face and will accent your man chops without distracting from their perfect symmetry.

French Split: Whether you're a villain mastermind or simply love the mystique, this two-pronged beard gets the point across: Do Not Mess With Me. A pointed beard deserves an equally pointed bow tie, which runs much shorter than the average butterfly bow. Look for one that's self-tie with a width of 1.5"-2.25". Remember, other beards are probably scared of you, so don't be afraid to choose something in 100% silk with a bold design, like polka-dots or medallions.

Chin Curtain: If you're not an old-fashioned rancher type, you certainly like to give off that impression. We don't blame you! The Midwestern farmhand look is gaining popularity, and you could well be ahead of this year's biggest trend. By accentuating your chin beard with a self-tie western bow tie in any dark hue, you can sleep in past the cawing hour and keep your cushy tech job while maintaining that early-Americana allure.

Lumberjack: So you want to be a lumberjack, but flannel shirts just don't flatter your frame? Lucky for you the dapper "lumbersexual" is the hottest male trend of the season. Equal parts grizzly woodsman and European dandy, the lumbersexual can swing an ax just as well as he can match his cotton socks with a linen pocket square. This full beard should be paired with a club bow tie in a plaid pattern woven from either cotton, wool, or linen.

Goat-T: If you're sporting a goat-t, people expect you to supply the party. Show them you're serious about fun with a jumbo butterfly bow tie made from silk or velvet. This statement piece should have a height of 3"-4" and be reserved for your very best three-piece suits.