Knot Your Ordinary Accessory – Interview with Tanya Huang of Knot Theory

Neckties and bow ties are traditionally associated with men in tailored suits, spiffy shoes, and crisp dress shirts.  But for designer Tanya Huang, bow ties and neckties conjure up images of outfits for both men and women.  She has set out to change the way that people think about formal neckwear, and is proving that a necktie or bow tie can be worn with anything from a tuxedo to a tunic.

Van City Pretty sat down with the Fashion Femme behind Knot Theory, a line of modern handmade neckties and bow ties for both men and women. From convertible ties to moustache bow ties, it’s time to change the way that you think about traditional formal neckwear.

1. What is Knot Theory and why did you start it?

Knot Theory is an innovative world class label, devoted to revolutionizing neckties for men and women – from tie lovers to those who never thought to tie one on. I started Knot Theory because creating something new in the history of fashion is a rare opportunity, and to be able to bring my innovations to everyone gets me incredibly excited.

2. What is your personal theory on life?

 

I think to live life to its fullest is to experience life to its fullest. Experience shapes us, deepens us, helps us relate to others. Not to mention it gives us great stories to tell. I’m thrilled whenever I get to do something I’ve never done before; something that few people would do. My philosophy is to be bold, be greedy with experience. You won’t regret living a life filled with colourful experience.

 

3. Ties are traditionally thought of as an accessory for men. Can you give us some styling ideas on how can a woman can sport a bow tie or necktie?

Absolutely! Neckties and bow ties are hot accessories for women right now. Contrary to what you may have thought – ties on women amp up the femininity; the key is in styling. Here are some good tips for the ladies:

 

A great starting point is draping the necktie loose over a collared shirt with a couple top buttons undone. Other great tops for the ties are boat-neck tops, sheer blouses, and strapless tops. For a sharp office look, throw on a fitted blazer to match. Accent the tie with layers of necklaces or accessories; the tie will give your look an attention-grabbing focal point.

 

For the bow ties, you can wear it like a neckerchief, against your neck inside a collared shirt. Also, a very on-trend way to wear it right now is the classic way – over a buttoned-up shirt and a fitted blazer.

The key to not look like a waiter or a magician is to choose a feminine bottom piece. When wearing neckties or bow ties, instead of wearing a pair of pants, try a very feminine silhouette piece such as a pencil skirt, a mini-pencil skirt, or a pair of shorts. High heels with colours to match your tie knot or bow tie or tall boots are great shoe choices.

 

There are so many ways to style your neckties and bow ties, so experiment, and have fun doing it.

 

4. And we can’t forget the gentlemen; what is your favourite way to see a man wear a Knot Theory necktie or bow tie?

 

I love seeing a man wear a Knot Theory tie with colour matching or contrasting accent pieces. For example, wear an orange knot with orange socks or orange shoelaces to match. Or, wear a merlot purple knot which picks out the purple pin stripes in your buttoned shirt.

 

I’m also always impressed by guys who go for a bold, unforgettable look, by matching their tie or bow tie with larger pieces. For example, a pink bow tie with a pair of pink pants, or a blue knotted tie with a blue blazer.

 

Of course, for formal occasions, you can’t go wrong matching your Knot Theory tie or bow tie to a crisp shirt and a sharp suit. Even in a sea of black suits such as at black tie events, you and your edgy tie will stand out.

 

5. As a independent designer, what has been your biggest challenge so far? How did you overcome it (or how are you currently trying to overcome it)?

 

I think the biggest challenge initially was establishing trust in our brand. Knot Theory is revolutionizing the way ties have been for the past century. For a young company to make such a bold statement, we have to prove ourselves and earn the right to it. Growing our fan base (16+ countries), getting authentic press coverage, as well as great collaborations with brands we respect, have resulted in more and more people giving Knot Theory the nod. It’s an ongoing process, as my goal is to see Knot Theory become an internationally respected, household name.

 

6. You recently partnered up with the Canadian Breast Cancer Foundation to raise awareness and funds in support of finding a cure for breast cancer. Why is it important for you to support causes such as this?

Thank you for this question. When we first started, our model agency, InspirationAll, held a Weekend to End Breast Cancer event and invited Knot Theory to participate in a silent auction fundraiser. It was then I realized that my fashion company can contribute to charities. Since then, three important people in my life have got breast cancer, and one of them passed away last year. After talking to Canadian Breast Cancer Foundation, I saw that they can make a real difference in minimizing breast cancer in the future, through prevention education and early detection. It makes sense to contribute and create a better future the best I can, via Knot Theory.

 

7. As an entrepreneur and designer, what has been your biggest life lesson so far?

 

Oh gosh, I’ve learned so much. Coming from a software engineering background, establishing myself as an entrepreneur and designer has been a fast way to go from geek to chic. I would say the most valuable lesson for me is learning that helping those around you succeed will help yourself succeed too. Don’t hold back in helping your friends reach their dreams and goals. When you truly support one another, magical things happen.

 

8. What is your dream for Knot Theory?