Fashion

Celebrate #NationalBowTieDay Like These Stars

by Marc Cuenco

There’s a reason why the bow tie deserves its own day… everyone looks really good in it! So, in celebration of National Bow Tie Day, here are a variety of ways to rock this must-have accessory. With the help of bow tie-wearing celebrities like Rihanna, Taylor Swift, and even one furry reality TV star, you too can stock up on bow ties and incorporate them into your own wardrobe.

According to Wikipedia, the bow tie has been around since the 17th century (and we’re seriously just now celebrating it with its own day?) during the Prussian Wars. After the French adopted it into their own fashion, the bow tie became a wardrobe staple for gentlemen in their formal attire. Often associated with a classic tuxedo, the bow tie has been worn by everyone from James Bond to Colonel Sanders to Pee-wee Herman.

Women have also rocked the almighty bow tie for decades, whether they are Hollywood legends like Marlene Dietrich or everyday bow tie wearers of all ages. But in the history of the bow tie, no one made this accessory look more chic and fashion forward at the same time as Rihanna at the 2009 Met Gala. Rih's bow-tied Dolce & Gabbana suit was everything and then some:

Stephen Lovekin/Getty Images Entertainment/Getty Images

Of course, the singer's bow tie look was supposed to make a statement because Rihanna's Met Gala outfits are nothing short of epic. But there are more "user-friendly" ways to wear a bow tie with any outfit.

1. Formal Shorts

Jason Merritt/Getty Images Entertainment/Getty Images

Diane Kruger mixed up formal and casual elements for this sophisticated look.

2. All That Glitters

Jason Merritt/Getty Images Entertainment/Getty Images

For someone whose wardrobe often incorporates the bow tie, Janelle Monae still manages to surprise with perfect little details like a long bow.

3. Pretty In Pink

Larry Busacca/Getty Images Entertainment/Getty Images

Charli XCX proves bow ties can be girly and tough at the same time.

4. Geek Chic

Pascal Le Segretain/Getty Images Entertainment/Getty Images

Alexa Chung's wide bow completes her librarian goes to Fashion Week ensemble.

5. Little Bow Peep

David Livingston/Getty Images Entertainment/Getty Images

Bella Thorne's hair bow adds a cute touch to her black-and-white look.

6. All Wrapped Up

John Sciulli/Getty Images Entertainment/Getty Images

Meanwhile, Chloe Sevigny's bow head scarf has just enough retro sass.

7. Tie Dyed

Frederick M. Brown/Getty Images Entertainment/Getty Images

Empire's Bryshere Y. Gray puts a modern and neon spin to the classic tux.

8. Gettin' Giggy

David Livingston/Getty Images Entertainment/Getty Images

Even four-legged stars like Real Housewives of Beverly Hills pooch Giggy can rock a bow tie.

9. Never Go Out Of Style

Damn right. Now go out there and tie a knot for #NationalBowTieDay!

Image: Giphy