Gray Bow Tie and Suit Pairings
With a navy suit, a charcoal or dark gray bow tie looks polished and businesslike, a good fit for an office party or a winter wedding. With a black suit, a silver-colored or light gray bow tie gives a cool contrast for evening events. On a light gray suit, choose a darker gray so the tie does not disappear against the jacket; the black and gray paisley helps here, since the pattern adds definition.
For a lighter, brighter shade, see our silver bow ties.
Gray Suit with a Black Bow Tie, or Gray on Gray
A gray suit with a black bow tie is a classic, slightly formal combination, and it is the easy answer when the dress code is unclear. If you want something less expected, try gray on gray: a charcoal bow tie on a mid-gray suit, with a white shirt to separate the two. The black style with gray beads sits between both options.
Gray Suit with a Blue Bow Tie and Other Accents
A gray suit is a neutral canvas, so the bow tie can carry the color. Blue, from sky blue to navy, is the most popular pairing, but burgundy, emerald and lilac also work. For a mixed wedding party, groomsmen in gray suits can each wear a different shade while the groom wears gray to match the suits.
Gray Bow Tie FAQ
Is a gray bow tie a good choice for an office party?
Yes, it looks festive without being loud, and it suits the navy, charcoal and black suits most people wear to work.
What shirt goes with a gray bow tie?
White is the classic choice. Pale blue and pale pink also look good with gray.
Is a gray bow tie formal enough for a wedding?
Yes, especially a dark gray or charcoal one with a navy or black suit. For a strict black-tie event, choose black.
