Bolo Ties -- Hand braided leather bolo ties with a selection of Sterling silver bolo slides : David Morgan (2024)

FAQs

Is it disrespectful to wear a bolo tie? ›

These accessories aren't items of religious or spiritual significance to any particular culture, so you don't run the risk of being disrespectful by wearing one.

It was created in the 1930s by Native American tribal silversmiths in Arizona and New Mexico. Native American bolo ties were meant to be an alternative to the necktie, which was seen as too formal for the more relaxed lifestyle of the western states.

The tried and trusted way to wear a bolo tie is ageless and always in style. Similar to a necktie, it lies underneath the collar of a buttoned-up shirt. Adjust the slide either up or down allowing the leather cord to hang down similar to a long necktie for the men and a necklace for the ladies.

It's safe to say that the classic bolo tie — the official neckwear of Arizona, Texas, and New Mexico — is no longer restricted to western cowboys and has become the go-to accessory for both men and women.

Most people prefer the cord ends to be about 3 to 4 inches below the base of the sternum (breastbone). In general, individuals under 6 feet tall with an average build choose cords of 36" to 38" in length; taller individuals or those with larger body builds usually want cords of 40 to 42 inches long.

-For the classic look, the bolo tie is worn with a collared shirt, buttoned all the way up to the top button, with the bolo cinched right up underneath the collar. -Wear it the same way with a turtleneck- cinched snugly around it.

Button your shirt (short- or long-sleeved) all the way up, tighten the clasp, and command the style like a bull rider. Keep that confidence high...or else you'll look like a rodeo clown. Undo your top button and wear the tie more loosely around your neck, but still under the collar.

Yes, that's right. Bolo ties are not meant to be worn only with stuffy suits or denim shirts. Just because it has the word 'tie' in it, it doesn't have to be fancy. Even with basic everyday looks, wearing them is an easy way to add a fun, quirky flair.

The 'Classic' Bolo Tie Look

If you are going for the classic “Western Look” then you need to make sure that you buy the right length bolo – one that is proportionate to your height and neck size. Experts suggest that the tips of the bolo should end about 4 inches below your breastbone.

So, if your watch and wedding band are silver, you want to go with a bolo tie that has silver cord tips and a silver clasp. Bolo ties and sneakers don't pair well. Stick with a good pair of western-style boots or good dress shoes, and you'll be fine.

What shirt goes best with bolo tie? ›

In terms of actually putting on a bolo tie, it is generally designed to be worn exactly like any other necktie, with a collared shirt buttoned to the top, and the tie firm to your neck. Wear it with either western or button-down collar shirts in Oxford cloth or denim.

The bolo tie should sit firmly but not too tightly. Arrange the decorative tips: Take the decorative metal tips of the bolo tie and adjust them to hang evenly and neatly. The tips should hang down the front of your shirt, framing the clasp or slide.

And even within office cultures, the perception around ties began to change. Ties were something that could be slipped on before a big meeting, but they were fundamentally unnecessary and something of a nuisance to many men.

Match the cord to your belt and shoes

You might be familiar with the rule of thumb of matching your shoes with the belt; add to this the bolo tie cords. Doing this will ensure that your entire ensemble is put together and looks coherent.

About New Mexico

In the 1930's, Navajo men would fasten a silver concha to their necks with a string. The bolo tie is also traced to the neckerchiefs worn by Boy Scouts and Argentine cowboys. In the United States bolo ties are widely associated with Western wear, and are common in the western areas of the country.

Bolo tie slides and tips in silver have been part of Hopi, Navajo, Zuni, and Puebloan silversmithing traditions since the mid-20th century. The bolo tie was made the official neckwear of Arizona on April 22, 1971, by Governor Jack Williams.

I love bolos during formal and non-formal situations. So it's not lame at all—your fiancée's dad has good taste. But you absolutely shouldn't wear one to your wedding.

A loose bolo tie can be worn for even more casual wear. Business casual: In some casual business environments, bolo ties can be acceptable, especially if the workplace has a Western or Southwestern influence.

Today, the bolo tie, sometimes called the “shoestring tie,” is a popular alternative to a formal necktie, even at weddings and especially in the American West.