Views: 222 Author: Zoe Publish Time: 2025-04-17 Origin: Site
Content Menu
● What Are Cowboy Neckties Called?
● The History and Origins of the Bolo Tie
>> Native American and Western Roots
>> The Victor Cedarstaff Story
● The Bolo Tie in Pop Culture and Fashion
>> Formal Wear
>> Casual Wear
● Care and Maintenance of Bolo Ties
● DIY: Making Your Own Bolo Tie
>> 1. What is the correct name for a cowboy necktie?
>> 2. How do I wear a bolo tie formally?
>> 3. Can I wear a bolo tie to a wedding or formal event?
>> 4. Are bolo ties only for men?
>> 5. How do I care for my bolo tie?
When you picture a cowboy, you may envision boots, a hat, and perhaps a bandana, but there's another accessory that's just as iconic: the cowboy necktie. Known for its unique style and deep cultural roots, the “cowboy necktie” is most commonly called the bolo tie. This article explores everything you need to know about bolo ties—their origins, how to wear them, their place in Western and Native American culture, and why they remain a timeless fashion statement.
Cowboy neckties are most widely known as bolo ties (sometimes spelled “bola tie,” “bootlace tie,” or “shoestring tie”). The bolo tie consists of a braided leather cord (or sometimes a fabric cord), decorative metal tips, and an ornamental clasp or slide that fastens the tie at the neck[1][4][9].
Other names for this neckwear include:
- Texas tie
- Cowboy tie
- Gaucho tie
- String tie
- Bootlace tie
The bolo tie is the official neckwear of Arizona, New Mexico, and Texas, reflecting its deep roots in Southwestern American culture[6][9].
A bolo tie's design is simple yet distinctive, comprising three main components[1][12]:
- Cord: Usually made from braided leather or sometimes fabric, the cord is the part that wraps around the neck.
- Clasp/Slide: The decorative centerpiece, often crafted from silver, turquoise, or other stones and metals, which slides up and down the cord to adjust the fit.
- Tips: Metal or decorative ends at the bottom of the cord, serving both as ornamentation and to prevent fraying.
The origin of the bolo tie is intertwined with both Native American artistry and cowboy practicality. Some believe its design was inspired by Native Americans, who used silver or shell clasps to fasten bandanas around their necks[2][4][10]. These early neckwear pieces often featured intricate designs and stones, laying the groundwork for the modern bolo tie.
The most widely accepted story credits Victor Cedarstaff, an Arizona silversmith, with inventing the first bolo tie in the late 1940s. According to legend, Cedarstaff was horseback riding when his hatband blew off. He slipped the band around his neck, and a friend remarked on his “nice tie.” This sparked the idea for a new kind of neckwear, which Cedarstaff refined with a silver slide and decorative tips. He initially called it the “Piggin Necklet,” but later adopted the name “bola tie” after learning about the Argentine gaucho's “boladora,” a lassoing tool with a similar appearance[10].
The bolo tie's popularity soared in the 1950s and 1960s, becoming a staple of Western and Southwestern fashion. Arizona named the bolo tie its official state neckwear in 1971, with New Mexico and Texas following suit[9].
Bolo ties are more than just cowboy accessories—they've appeared in movies, television, and high fashion[1][9]. From Western film stars to rockabilly musicians and even NFL players, bolo ties have made their mark as a symbol of rugged individuality and Americana.
In the United Kingdom, bolo ties (called “bootlace ties”) were popular among Teddy Boys in the 1950s, showing their global reach[9].
- With a Collared Shirt: Button the shirt all the way up and slide the bolo tie's clasp snugly to the base of your neck, just like a traditional necktie.
- With a Suit or Blazer: Pair a bolo tie with a crisp dress shirt and tailored blazer for a bold, sophisticated look. Choose a classic design with black leather and a silver or gemstone slide for formal events[4][6][7].
- With Open Collar Shirts: For a relaxed style, wear the bolo tie loosely with the top button undone. Let the slide hang lower on your chest.
- With T-Shirts or Western Shirts: Treat the bolo tie like a necklace, keeping the slide lower for a laid-back vibe.
Tip: The bolo tie should be the focal point of your outfit. Keep other accessories minimal to let it shine[7].
Native American artisans, especially from the Navajo, Hopi, and Zuni tribes, have elevated the bolo tie to wearable art. Their bolos often feature:
- Intricate silverwork
- Inlaid turquoise, onyx, coral, or other stones
- Unique, hand-crafted designs
Collectors value these pieces for their craftsmanship and cultural significance[2][11].
To keep your bolo tie looking its best:
- Store Properly: Hang or lay flat to prevent cord curling.
- Avoid Chemicals: Do not use harsh cleaners, especially on gemstone slides.
- Keep Dry: Leather and stones can be damaged by water.
- Polish Metal Gently: Use a soft cloth for silver or brass.
- Professional Repairs: Have intricate or valuable bolo ties cleaned and repaired by professionals[8][13].
Crafting a bolo tie is a rewarding project:
1. Choose Your Cord: Leather or braided textile.
2. Select a Slide: Metal, wood, or stone centerpiece.
3. Pick the Tips: Simple or ornate metal ends.
4. Assemble: Thread the cord through the slide and attach tips.
5. Customize: Add beads, engravings, or paint for a personal touch[12].
- Let the bolo tie be the star: Avoid large belt buckles or flashy rings that compete for attention.
- Match the occasion: Choose subtle designs for formal events; go bold for casual or themed occasions.
- Respect cultural roots: When wearing Native American designs, appreciate and acknowledge their cultural significance[7].
The bolo tie—often called the cowboy necktie—is more than a piece of Western fashion. It's a symbol of rugged individuality, rich cultural heritage, and artistic expression. From its Native American and cowboy roots to its place on the catwalk and red carpet, the bolo tie remains a versatile and meaningful accessory. Whether you're a collector, a fashion enthusiast, or simply looking to add a touch of Americana to your wardrobe, the bolo tie is a timeless choice that tells a story with every wear.
The most common name is the bolo tie, but it's also known as a bola tie, cowboy tie, Texas tie, string tie, or bootlace tie[1][4][6].
Wear it with a collared shirt, buttoned to the top, and position the slide snugly at the base of your neck, just like a traditional necktie[4][6][7].
Yes, bolo ties are appropriate for weddings and formal events, especially in the Southwest. Choose a classic, understated design for formal occasions[6][7].
No, bolo ties are a unisex accessory. Women can wear them with blouses, dresses, or even as a statement necklace[4][12].
Store it flat or hanging, avoid water and chemicals, polish metal parts gently, and seek professional help for repairs, especially for gemstone or intricate designs[8][13].
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[8] https://novembermaker.com/pages/care-for-you-bolo
[9] https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Bolo_tie
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