Bolo Tie – Guide to History, Style, Options, and Fit

I was looking into leather fashion and learned a lot about bolo ties. Let’s explore some interesting facts about the “official” tie of the Wild West.

The bolo tie is a fashion accessory worn around the neck. It consists of a leather cord secured in place by a metal slide clip (bolo). The style originated with Native American accessories in the 1900s and soon spread as popular fashion in the Western United States. Bolo clips are available in various materials, sizes, and styles.

Let’s explore more about the enchanting world of bolo ties, what to look for, and how to pick a great one to wear.

What is a Bolo Tie?

When it comes to choosing the right leather tie, bolo ties have a unique look and are an elegant choice for various events. They are usually made of metal pins, engraved magnets, polished stones, or ancient coins and are secured with a metal clasp on the back. The adjustable buckle has a cord running through it to adjust the tie size. The cord is usually made of braided leather with metal tippings.

Often associated with Western American culture, bolo ties are rapidly gaining popularity worldwide. In 2018, they were featured in Balmain’s spring men’s collection. At the Paris show, they were so popular that their stock sold out quickly.

These ties are a fascinating fusion of vintage and western. They have always been an integral part of American pop culture. Do you remember John Travolta in Pulp Fiction? You know the story, don’t you? The legendary actor wore a bolo tie and danced gracefully with Uma Thurman. Similarly, the charm of Colin Farrell’s character in True Detective was enhanced by combining his impressive mustache and vintage bolo neckwear.

The Origin and History of the Bolo Tie

To be honest, it is difficult to pinpoint the exact history of the bolo tie. However, Victor Cedarstaff claims that he came up with the idea in the late 1940s when he dangled his hatband around his neck. It is said that Victor’s hat once fell off while he was riding a horse. He didn’t want to lose his silver-carved hatband, so he donned it around his neck.

That’s when he came up with the idea for the tie. The cowboy later patented the invention to his name. The term bolo originated from the Argentinian word boleadora (bolas in Spanish) — a strong cord connected with heavy balls at both ends. Therefore, the common bolo tie also has a heavy metal trim on the ends.

How to Wear a Bolo Tie

Traditionally worn like a regular tie with a collared shirt, modern stylists suggest wearing it with a T-shirt too, as a fashion accessory. Bolo ties are cool enough to complement formal dresses, semi-formal outfits, and even casual attire.

For a more unique look, I suggest going with some bold adornments. You can choose the one embedded with a shiny stone set inside a metal piece for a cool evening look. However, if you want something retro, grab a vintage bolo tie and wear it with matching clothes. Bolo ties, like other leather clothing, can be styled to suit anyone’s taste, offering versatility and personalization to your wardrobe.

What to Look for in a Bolo Tie

There are various things to look for when it comes to having a bolo tie. Endless designs of adornment/medallions need to be mixed and matched with the appropriate quality, color, and length of the leather cord to create a masterpiece.

Leather Type

Specific types of leather, such as full grain leather or vegetable-tanned leather, are excellent choices for bolo ties due to their durability and rich, natural appearance. These leathers also develop a unique patina over time, enhancing the character of the bolo tie. Additionally, they are well-suited for intricate tooling and embossing designs, adding further customization possibilities to the accessory.

Leather Color

The color of the leather cord can greatly affect the overall aesthetic of the tie. In general, darker-colored leather cords are worn more often. However, with the advent of modern faux leather, it is now possible to tie a bolo with leather straps of any color. However, the quality of faux leather is questionable, as it wears out easily. Hence, it is advisable to compromise on the color and choose a good-quality leather cord that might be available in a limited number of colors.

Length

Bolo ties are available in two basic cord size lengths—standard and extra-long. Classic bolo ties have a long cord length, giving them a vintage look. Conversely, modern bolo ties are relatively short and have a funky look. Taller people should choose the extra-long size, while normal-height people can choose the standard length to match their size.

Standard Length

A standard bolo tie is about 38–40 inches long between the two end knots, except for the inches added by the silver tips.

Extra Long Length

Extra-long bolo ties range from 42 to 44 inches in length without the addition of metal tails.

Slide and Tip Color

Typically, the medallion and the tail-tips bolo ties are made of sterling silver. Therefore, they usually come in silver color only. However, spicing things up is always possible by going after a gold adornment and metal tips.

Slide Style and Adornment

Bolo tie slides come in various styles, including gripping clasps and pull sliders. You can add anything to these slides as an embellishment. Most of the embellishments I have encountered are metallic. However, non-metal slides, usually made of resin, wood, or stone, are also available.

Types of Bolo Ties

It’s incredible to think that there are so many types of bolo ties, with men’s bolo ties, bolo tie necklaces, western bolo ties, vintage bolo ties, and wedding bolo ties being some of the popular ones.

Men’s Bolo Tie

Modern-day bolo ties are usually unisex — men and women can wear similar styles. However, some styles and designs are men-specific. Men’s bolo ties have a large medallion with a long strand. They also have a distinctive rugged look that is reminiscent of the Wild West culture.

Bolo Tie Necklace

Bolo ties were historically associated with the cowboys of the Wild West and, as such, were previously adopted only by men. However, I have found that women also welcome this unusual cultural intricacy. Women’s bolo ties, also known as bolo tie necklaces, are shorter and snazzy than men’s bolo ties. They have an elegant pendant design and lovely cord ends. Generally, the adornment in a bolo tie necklace is a stone engraved on a metal clasp.

Western Bolo Tie

All bolo ties are Western bolo ties for obvious reasons. The states of Texas, Arizona, and New Mexico have granted them the status of official neckwear. However, modern designs have largely changed the good ole spirit associated with the bolo ties of the cowboy.

The traditional bolo tie is dynamic in design and imposing in appearance. They are worn in the western states of the United States, not out of fashion, but out of tradition. Western bolo tie medallions are made with specific designs – such as a bullhorn, showcasing the cultural ethos of the West.

Vintage Bolo Tie

Vintage bolo ties have a comfortable and classic feel. The medallions used in vintage bolo ties have a retro feel. Their designs are usually consistent with the historical jewelry once worn by the Native Americans. However, many vintage bolo tie designs have also evolved with the tides of time.

Bolo Ties for Weddings

For me, all bolo ties are perfect for a wedding. Depending on the overall theme of your event, you can select the appropriate combination of leather color and medallion design. If you ask for my advice, I would suggest a turquoise-encrusted silver bolo tie strangled onto a black leather cord.

Best Bolo Ties

1. Turquoise Classic Cowboy Bolo Tie from Ricky Mountain Western

The turquoise classic cowboy bolo tie from Ricky Mountain Western is a true gem. A beautifully polished stone is embedded into a gold, silver, or copper medallion, added with the cord of your choice. It entails detailed etching on the shiny metal pitch, reflecting a true herdsman persona in your personality.

2. Western Silver Steer Skull Bolo Tie from Wild West Living

A profound, detailed cow-skull batch is added to a braided leather cord with shiny tail clippings, making it a unique piece. It is skillfully crafted for true bolo lovers by Wild West Living. The skull-shaped tie is 15/8 inches in size and contains no traces of lead or nickel – only pure silver.

3. Black Onyx Silver Plated Vintage Celtic Bolo Tie from The Old West Gallery

This is a beautifully crafted silver-plated vintage Celtic bolo tie with a black onyx studded at the center. The cord is made of pure animal leather, while the stone mount is plated inside high-quality silver.

How to Make a Bolo Tie

Making your bolo tie is very easy once you have the right tools and materials. All you need to do is thread the leather cord through the metal clasp, attach it to the back of a medallion by applying super glue, and add metal tips at both ends of the cord using a plier. With these simple steps, your bolo tie is ready to adorn your personality.

Bolo Tie Supplies

The list of bolo tie supplies includes very limited items. You will need a leather cord, a metal buckle, a pendant of your choice, and a pair of cord-tail metal tipping. These supplies can be easily purchased from various e-commerce platforms such as Esty, Amazon, and eBay.

DIY Bolo Tie

When it comes to bolo ties, there are many DIY options. Making a bolo tie is a rewarding hobby. You can experiment with your artistry by painting a bolo medallion. You can also get creative by braiding leather strings into a bolo tie cord. So, you can undertake numerous DIY-ing projects with bolo ties that are creative and fulfilling for the soul.

Here is an insightful video on how to make a bolo tie:

Helpful Insights

Many people might hesitate to wear a bolo tie to work. But never forget that bolo ties are a creative and stylish alternative to regular neckties. Many individuals proudly wear their bolos to work, parties, weddings, and official meetings. Let me give you some helpful insights to set things straight.

Is wearing a bolo tie cultural appropriation?

There are differing opinions on this issue. Many people believe that wearing a bolo tie is cultural appropriation. This sentiment is particularly high among Indigenous people, who find bolo ties to be part of their centuries-old traditions. As for me, I have no problem with anyone wearing them. I love to see people wearing them around.

Where did Philip Rivers wear a bolo tie?

San Diego Chargers quarterback Philip Rivers wore an elegant bolo tie to his post-game interview. It was made of elk antlers embedded with a polished stone. The head coach, Mike McCoy, has made it mandatory for players to wear a tie and a jacket in post-match conferences, so instead of the usual tie, Rivers wore this cool bolo tie.

What is a Texas tie called?

The Texas tie is another name for the bolo tie. It is the official neckwear of Texas and is also popular in several other states in the Southwestern USA.

Is it OK to wear a bolo tie?

It is perfectly acceptable to wear a bolo tie. Bolo ties are stylish, and as long as they are worn with appropriate clothing and in proper settings, they can be an excellent choice.

Are bolo ties Native American?

The origins of the bolo tie are difficult to trace. Many people associate the bolo tie with Native American culture. However, many believe that it was invented by Victor Cedarstaff in the 1940s.

Who wears a Bolo tie?

Everyone wears them in the West, but they are generally associated with the region’s cowboys. However, hipsters and popular artists (Nick Jonas, Post Malone, Quavo) have also adopted them as high-fashion accessories. These ties are also popular among women.

How long is a bolo tie?

Bolo ties come in various sizes. The standard size is around 38 inches, while the extra-long size is approximately 42 inches.

How should a bolo tie be worn?

It goes perfectly with a button-down oxford worn with chinos or jeans. Wear some high-quality leather shoes underneath, and add a hat as a cherry on top.

Are bolo ties cool?

Yes, bolo ties are very cool. They are a perfect blend of tradition, fashion, and personality and can work to make a unique look in informal and formal settings.

In Closing

I enjoyed studying the beautiful history of bolo ties. I see them as a form of art and expression. The style of a bolo tie not only reflects your personality but style while reflecting history. Choosing one can show personality and be a fun wardrobe addition.

Related Topics 

Where were bolo ties invented?

They were invented by a local cowboy, Victor Cedarstaff, in Arizona in the late 1940s. The style was inspired by Native American accessories that had been worn since at least the early 1900s.

How do you straighten a bolo cord?

Leather cords are coiled around a spool that sometimes distorts their shape. Simply hold one end of the cord with your right hand and bend it back and forth with your left. This will gradually straighten your bolo cord.