The groom's tuxedo necessitates a tie, be it a bowtie, long tie, or an ascot. If you can't tie a bowtie or don't know what an ascot is, this article is for you.

A bowtie

The classic tuxedo is worn with a bowtie. A black bow tie, to be precise. Chances are, you have no idea how to tie a bow tie, and that's perfectly normal - it's not the kind of thing our fathers taught us. With a tuxedo rental, your package will come with a choice of ties, and most of them are pre-tied. In fact, they're not just pre-tied, they're permanently tied and sown to create a perfect knot. Almost too perfect. While GroomGroove.com has no problem with a pre-fab tie, please keep the elastic clip from showing. If you decide to wear a bow tie that you have to tie yourself, learn how. Also, be ready to help your groomsmen learn. Most bowties have a strap that wraps around your neck and fastens in front. They look fine, are adjustable and can be secured easily.

A long tie is generally no different than a regular necktie, except that it will be fashioned from satin, rather than a silk weave. If you own a shiny black necktie, however, you may be able to get away with using your own tie. Do not use a black necktie if it isn' shiny. That's a dead giveaway that you are incompetent in the tux tie department.

Your tie color will likely be dictated by the your bride, possibly based on what her bridesmaids will be wearing. If they're wearing silver dresses, she may want you and your groomsmen to wear matching ties.

Ass-what?

Ascots are back in fashion and are a great change from the bowties worn at high school proms. According to veteran New Jersey wedding photographer Ron Melendi, "Ascots always look best through the lens. Ascots look best with vests and positively amazing with long jackets. An ascot is unique but not unusual, adding a bit of panache to you and the men who will join you when you say 'I do'."

Read more about wedding attire from GroomGroove.com:

• How to get the groomsmen outfitted in tuxedos, painlessly
• An intro to formal wear for the groom:
  • Tuxedo Jacket
  • Pants
  • Shirts
  • Ties
  • Cufflinks
  • Shoes (and socks)
  • What the hell is a cummerbund and do you need one?
  • Boutonnieres (aka the only flowers a groom needs to think about)
• Morning coats
• Wearing a suit instead of a tuxedo
• Whether to buy or rent a tux
• If you're buying a tux, whether to get it custom-made or off the rack tuxedo
• Beach wedding attire (you lucky bastard!)

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