The London Lounge

I live and work as an engineer in a town of perhaps 20K in the mid-Atlantic. A few years ago my wife started a company called Glen James Bow Ties, so I wear one of her designs every day to work. They are all rather conservative, stripes, prints, tartans.. I have found that I really like them, so practical and easy to wear. One thing has surprised me. Rarely does a day go by that someone, often a stranger, does not give me their compliments. This person can be of any age, gender or background. I am curious as to whether or not others have enjoyed this experience. Is there something charming in the bow tie? Perhaps, because I am charming in no other way.

They can be a pleasant novelty, and more than a practical consideration for psychiatrists not wishing to be strangled by patients. I remember having mine complimented on the street or in a store by a complete stranger in Kyoto. Japanese relationship with Ivy style might have built a different subtext, but it was a nice accessory.

Has she thought of doing MTO in particular sizes? Especially wool and brocade can end up making a visible knot under the back of the collar, so getting rid of that has value.

I have always admired the man who can carry-off routine bow tie wearing. Americans seem rather better at it than us Brits. I suspect the secret is to start young and never vary, then it just becomes your style. It looks better with a waistcoat though, otherwise that uncovered expanse of shirtfront becomes an issue, unless your shirts are impeccable.

As for strangulation, I suspect a bow tie would do the job. However, dentists and other varieties of physician might prefer neck wear that doesn't dangle inconveniently into wounds and orifices!

Scot,
We Americans do a lot of things well, you should have never left us! Just kidding of course, because we love your country. I spent three weeks there in January and was treated so wonderfully. We can't wait to return. My hope is that you are treated so well when you visit us.