How to style a bolo tie
Ideas for how to style a bolo tie
The bolo tie, long affiliated with cowboys, native Americans and western wear, isn’t just for men, and it isn’t just for button-down shirts. It’s an offbeat stylish accessory for almost any outfit – from casual to dressy, for men, women and children. Here are some ideas for how to style a bolo tie.
What is a bolo tie?
The bolo tie is the official state tie for New Mexico and Texas. Most sources attribute its beginning to Manny Goodman, who owned a craft store in Albuquerque, New Mexico, in the 1930s. Legend has it that he noticed native Americans wearing bandanas around their necks, held at the throat with a clasp.
Another story attributes the creation to Victor Cedarstaff of Arizona, who got the idea one day when his hat band fell around his neck.
Regardless, the bolo tie caught on, and it’s been celebrated for almost a century across the American West and beyond. Today, artisans craft stunning bolos from all kinds of stones, wood and metals. Some cost more than $3,000. And vintage pieces can fetch hundreds if not thousands of dollars.
Resources for buying artisan and vintage bolo ties
- Ray Tracey makes stunning bolo ties. They’re available for sale at Sorrel Sky Gallery.
- Hell’s Canyon Bolo ties specializes in bolos. You can even rent one for a wedding or other event.
- The Faust Gallery offers very high-end pieces, with price tags well above $10,000
- Folks on the Edge features more affordable pieces
- Etsy has a number of small, handmade artists selling a variety of bolos in all price ranges
Or make your own
You can make your own bolos from vintage jewelry, gems and stones. The supplies are easily available online. Here’s my DIY on making handmade bolos.
