It is common for US states to adopt certain trees, animals, dishes and even pieces of clothing to identify with. Minnesota has an official state fish for example, the walleye. In addition they have an official state bird, the loon, and even an official state flower, the "Pink Lady Slipper". Did you know that one state has an "official state necktie"? This state is Arizona. A specific necktie called "Bolo" became Arizona's official neckwear in 1971. New Mexico followed suit in 2007. What is a bolo tie? If you are from the southwestern part of the United States or are into western wear, that's a pretty silly question. For us northerners and city slickers, it may be a new term.
A bolo tie is a piece of braided leather or cord that has silver tips and has an ornamental clasp. It is sometimes also called "Bola Tie", a "String Tie" or "Texas Tie". Supposedly a silversmith named Victor Cedarstaff of Wickenburg, Arizona sometime in the late 1940s, first created the bolo tie The story is that he was riding his horse with some friends and his hat blew off. Afraid of losing the silver-trimmed hatband, he put it around his neck. One of his friends kidded him that he had a nice-looking tie. Cedarstaff, being a silversmith, soon fashioned and patented the bolo tie.
According to another story, a North American pioneer created the bolo tie back in the 1800s. In a trading post in Zuni Pueblo, New Mexico there is a bolo tie on display that is said to date back that far. The bolo tie is known as a bootlace tie in the United Kingdom. It was made popular by a group of teenage boys called the Teddy Boys in the 1950s. They wore the ties with dark drape suits, brightly colored socks (which they made sure everyone could see), a white shirt with a high-necked loose collar, a brocade waistcoat and suede shoes.
In the southwestern part of the United States, the bolo tie is said to be appropriate for any occasion. It can be worn with a tuxedo, or blue jeans and cowboy boots.
Neckwear can come in various shapes and colors. Most common are neckties and bow ties. However, if you live in certain parts of the United States or love horses and western wear, the neckwear of choice just might be the bolo tie No matter what its origin, it is the official state tie of two states and beloved by many.
Hendrik Pohl is the owner and founder of http://www.ties-necktie.com/ Ties-Necktie.com offers a wide range of quality handmade silk ties, as well as useful dress code tips for men, men's fashion advice, necktie knot instructions, and more.
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