The History of Bolo Ties and Their Rise in Modern Fashion

Bolo ties have been around in Western fashion for decades, but they existed before cowboy culture. Bolo ties were born from Native American craftsmanship to the fashion catwalks of the present. Whether you want to lean into a typical Western vibe or just need a fun conversation starter, bolo ties are a distinctive way to express personal style.

In this article, we will delve into the backstory of bolo ties, their cultural importance, and their recent return to the world of contemporary fashion. We’ll also tell you where to wear them and how to wear them stylishly, plus tips for tying various knots to go with your bolo tie.

The Origins of Bolo Ties

Early Beginnings: A Western Classic

The bolo tie, also known as “bola tie” or “bolo necktie,” originated in the American West. Though its exact origins are debated, many historians credit an Arizona silversmith named Victor Cedarstaff with popularizing the design in the late 1940s. According to legend, Cedarstaff had previously lost his hat in the wind and tied the cord around his neck, not wishing to lose the ornamental cord around it. His friends praised the appearance, and he made the bolo tie a fashion item.

Native American Influence

While Cedarstaff is credited with developing the modern bolo tie design, Indigenous artisans of the Southwest, especially the Hopi, Zuni, and Navajo tribes, had been creating ornamental neckwear for decades prior. These bolo ties were made with expensive silverwork and hand-cut turquoise stones, signifying expert craftsmanship. To this day, Native American artisans still create bolo ties that celebrate culture and artistry.

The Official Neckwear of Arizona

The bolo tie is a lot older than that, of course, and in 1971, it was declared via legislation to be the state neckwear of Arizona, cementing its place in history even further. So did New Mexico and Texas, saying the bolo tie is a symbol of Western heritage. Though ranchers and cowboys initially wore the bolo tie, it quickly became a statement accessory beyond Western attire.

A Look Back at Bolo Ties in Fashion

Western Wear to Full-Court Formal Wear

Bolo ties gained widespread popularity in the 1950s and 1960s, often worn with Western suits, embroidered shirts, and cowboy hats. The trend became popular in Hollywood, too, with Western movie icons like John Wayne and Clint Eastwood frequently seen flaunting bolo ties in films.

In the second half of the 20th century, bolo ties began popping up in unexpected places, from rock concerts to the political stage. Presidents Jimmy Carter and Southwest politicians adopted bolo ties as a professional but distinctive part of their wardrobe, drawing them ever deeper into mainstream fashion.

Bolo Ties in Current Street Fashion and High-End Design

Today, bolo ties are popular again. Fashion designers from Calvin Klein to Alexander McQueen have recreated them for luxury fashion collections, employing expensive materials that include gold, diamonds, and exotic stones. Celebrities and social media personalities have also helped to revive the bolo tie, pairing them with street and formal wear.

For example:

• Musicians and rappers incorporate bolo ties into fashionable, alternative outfits.
• Runway models don large bolo ties with sharp suits.
• Hipsters and streetwear fans wear denim jackets and vintage tees with bolo ties. 

Bolo ties are now more than a way to dress around Western-themed weddings — they’re a piece worn that makes a statement in everyday dressing.

How to Wear a Bolo Tie

1. Traditional Western Style

Wear your bolo tie with a button-down collar shirt and a blazer or fitted vest. Get the tried-and-true silver and turquoise vibe for an authentic Western feel. Finish off the outfit with a Stetson hat and cowboy boots.

2. Business Casual

For a less formal option, try wearing a bolo tie with your dress shirt and slim blazer. Wear neutrals and don’t wear very busy patterns to preserve your professional appearance.

3. Modern and Trendy

It can also be worn with informal clothing. Wear one over a plain white t-shirt, denim jacket, and sneakers for a simple, stylish look. For a modern take, go for a thin, simple bolo tie.

4. Formal Attire

Swap out a traditional necktie or bow tie for a bolo tie at formal occasions. A well-shined bolo tie made in glossy black material can add sophistication to a tuxedo or three-piece suit.

The Art of Tying a Bolo Tie

Unlike most neckties, bolo ties are not complicated to tie. Nonetheless, learning various tie knots will enable you to combine and match styles.

1. How to Wear a Bolo Tie

• Slide the clasp up to fasten the bolo tie to your neck.
• Tighten it to a snug fit; secure but not tight.
• Let the ornamental tips freely hang.

2. Other ways to tie a bolo tie

• Loose and Relaxed – Allow the bolo tie to hang loose for a relaxed look.
• High and Tight – Keep it close to the collar for a clean appearance.
• With Scarf – Add some flare to the bolo tie by wrapping a smaller scarf around the neck of the tie.

While bolo ties don’t necessarily require classic knots, learning to tie different tie knots such as the Windsor knot, Trinity knot, or Four-in-Hand knot may give you some inspiration to try another type of neckwear.

The Future of Bolo Ties

With fashion moving towards individuality and retro-vintage fashion, the bolo tie will certainly remain an ageless asset for many years. Tie One On is continuing the legacy with authentic, handmade bolo ties that embrace both vintage-inspired and contemporary trends. This makes bolo ties a great form of accessory for any wardrobe—from classic Western to streetwear. 

As more people search for unique and personalized accessories, bolo ties are poised to be a fashion staple for many years to come.

Conclusion: Distinguish Yourself with a Bolo Tie

Bolo ties have a rich history that is replete with cultures, industries, and fashion. From mainstay of the American West to contemporary fashion accessory that can be dressed up in endless ways, there’s been a long journey. Bolo ties offer endless possibilities for whether you want to stick to tradition or to make a dramatic style statement.

At Tie One On, we respect the tradition and art of bolo ties by offering a thoughtfully edited selection of style-conscious and quality designs. Browse our selection today and find the perfect bolo tie to express your personality.

Visit our selection of bolo ties today!