# A Western Tie Is a Stylish Accessory That Is Making a Comeback

- Link: https://lifeandwork.blog/a-western-tie-is-a-stylish-accessory-that-is-making-a-comeback/
- Published: 2026-07-05T17:42:59-05:00
- Author: Bert Swope

Western ties have made an incredible comeback as fashionable accessories. Also referred
to as bolo ties or shoestring neckties, these casual fashion accessories have become
the official neckwear in Arizona, New Mexico and Texas.

Bolo ties are typically constructed of corded leather with decorative metal tips
attached and secured using a slide or clasp, often featuring Western designs such
as bears, thunderbirds or horses on them.

## What is a western tie?

Western ties, commonly referred to as bolo ties or cowboy necktie, have traditionally
been popular with those interested in Western wear and those seeking to add some
cowboy flair to their wardrobes. Bolo ties have gained even more prominence since
John Travolta’s 1980 film Urban Cowboy helped introduce them back into American 
pop culture.

Bolo ties are typically constructed of leather with braided designs on each end 
and metal tips attached for threading through slides or clasps made of metal, wood
beads or any other suitable materials such as metal, wood beads or beads. Once threaded
through these clasps they can then be decorated with Western-themed designs such
as thunderbirds, horses, cattle skulls as well as sometimes featuring gemstones 
like turquoise carnelian jade to complete the look.

Victor Cedarstaff of Arizona silversmith fame is generally credited with creating
the bolo tie. According to legend, he came up with this piece after his hat flew
off while horseback riding and instead of losing its band he wrapped it around his
neck instead – this complimented companion complimented on how good looking it looked
and inspired Cedarstaff to develop it into what became known as a “bolo tie.”

Bolo ties may be more commonly associated with Western wear, but they can add an
element of cowboy flair to any look. They make for an excellent way to elevate jeans
and a T-shirt look or can even be worn over suits for an elevated style statement.

Bolo ties have long been worn as necklaces or chokers by women. A bolo tie makes
a wonderful accent piece when worn as part of a cowgirl dress or an off-the-shoulder
tunic; they look particularly stunning paired with western-style denim jacket and
skinny jeans; additionally it adds flair when worn during summertime as a sundress
or sleeveless blouse!

## History of the western tie

A western tie (also referred to as a slide bolo tie, shoestring necktie or cowboy
tie) has become an indispensable accessory for those who appreciate western-inspired
styles. Officially worn in Arizona, Texas and New Mexico as official neckwear, and
popular worldwide as fashion statement neckwear.

At its origins are unknown, we do know that it originated as an accessory worn by
Native Americans before eventually evolving into the beloved piece of jewelry it
is today. Silversmiths in the Southwest made bolo ties popular, using designs inspired
by cowboy culture as well as movies and TV shows set in Western settings from 1950s
onwards that featured them. Some famous cowboys who donned them included Cisco Kid
and Hopalong Cassidy who popularized their use as part of their look.

There are various accounts regarding the creation of the bolo tie, but one popular
theory suggests it was invented by Arizona silversmith Victor Cedarstaff while hunting
wild horses with friends. When his silver-bordered hatband fell off during their
hunt and hit the desert floor, Victor placed it around his neck for safety; receiving
compliments on this look and receiving praise from their hunter friends gave him
inspiration to design a bolo tie.

Another theory suggests the origins of the bolo tie: men from Navajo, Hopi and Zuni
tribes who wore bandanas secured with leather or shell strands under their necklines
may have worn these neckties first. Native American Bolo Ties presents one early
scarf slide from Heard Museum Collection made during 1930-40s by Leekya Deyuse (
Zuni Pueblo).

No matter its origins, bolo ties have quickly gained in popularity since their debut
in the 1970s and continue to increase even today. Their increased use has even inspired
an entire fashion movement; designers and celebrities such as rapper Quavo have 
begun sporting these distinctive neckwear items. Furthermore, their versatility 
means that they can be worn with various clothing types including open-collared 
shirts or tees for maximum effect.

## Are western ties still popular?

People often think of Western ties in relation to John Travolta dancing with Uma
Thurman from Pulp Fiction, yet today most don’t wear them to dance; nonetheless 
they remain popular accessories among those looking to add a little western flair
to their ensembles. Bolo ties offer an interesting fusion between vintage and western
aesthetics with their rugged cords and decorative clasps, and come in different 
colors and styles so that you can find one to suit your individuality and aesthetic
needs.

Bolo ties may have long been synonymous with New Mexico, Arizona and Texas state
neckwear – however they’ve now found fashion fame across America. Fashion designers
are taking notice, with Prada including one with a gold-plated clasp as part of 
its spring 2018 collection. Other high-fashion brands, like Jacques Marie Mage and
Turkish designer Umit Benan have sought inspiration from Native American craft for
their collections as well as rappers Quavo and Lil Uzi Vert wearing them to show
their Western roots.

Although no definitive proof is available, most experts agree that the bolo tie’s
origins lie within Native American jewelry-making traditions. Legend has it that
an Arizona silversmith named Victor Cedarstaff invented it during a horseback ride
when his hatband began slipping off, needing something to keep it secure. Word soon
spread about Victor Cedarstaff’s unique accessory and it soon became widespread 
across the Southwest.

Bolo ties are highly versatile accessories that can complement various outfits. 
Most commonly associated with western-themed events or weddings, bolo ties make 
an eye-catching statement in any setting – be it casual events such as BBQs or formal
ones such as weddings.

Additionally to traditional bolo ties, there are other types of western jewelry 
that pair nicely with them such as silver-beaded bracelets and pendant necklaces;
of course a pair of western boots completes your ensemble perfectly!

## When to wear a western tie

Bolo ties are an ideal accessory to add flair and flair to casual Western outfits
all year long, no matter the season. Wear one with denim jeans and a western dress
shirt for an ideal outfit for hanging out with the guys or attending casual Western-
themed events; or pair it with formal wear like suits and blazers for semi-formal
affairs such as business meetings. Women may use loose bolo ties as necklaces with
tunics that flow off-the-shoulder or pair it with cowboy-style jackets over sleeveless
tops – making these versatile accessories versatile all year long!

Bolo ties have traditionally been worn to complete Western attire, such as cowboy
hats, collared Western shirts and denim jeans. Bolo ties were made famous again 
after Roy Rogers and John Travolta popularized them in the 1980 movie Urban Cowboy;
since then both men and women wear them stylishly as an accent to their Western 
wardrobes.

Bolo ties work best when worn with collared shirts, such as Western dress shirts
or jeans shirts. While they can also be worn with T-shirts or tank tops, their appearance
may not be as polished; therefore they should only be reserved for casual outfits.
To maximize its impact, the pattern of your bolo tie should be larger than that 
on your shirt to stand out more prominently in an ensemble.

Bolo ties can add an elegant and formal look when worn with a suit or blazer, although
some men opt to pair one with their tuxedo as well. For casual wear, however, the
tie can also be combined with button-down shirts or polo shirts.

Bolo ties can also make great additions to an ensemble when an understated and rugged
Western look is desired. A bolo tie can add the perfect rustic touch for events 
such as western-themed weddings and corporate functions, or casual family barbecues
where a more relaxed style may be preferable.

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