Where to Buy Men's Bow Ties

Tied to History

The bow tie, once worn only by grooms on their wedding day or by the male cast members of such vintage TV series as The Waltons and Little House on the Prairie, is now one of the hottest fashion statements a man can make.

The bow tie first made its debut back in the 17th century among Croatian mercenaries, who used it almost like a scarf to keep their shirts closed at the collar. The look soon caught on with upper class men in France and quickly became the necktie of choice during the 18th and 19th centuries. The look became synonymous with the upper class or a more mature set of men and was usually seen on professionals such as attorneys, doctors or professors. During the 20th century, the bow tie seemed to become almost “dated” and was often relegated to tuxedo attire or your grandfather’s closet. But like they say, everything old is new again, and today the bow tie is making a huge comeback in men’s fashion.

Where to Buy A Bow Tie

Still somewhat synonymous with preppy style and fashion, it should come as no surprise that the bow tie is once again a staple at such retail outlets as J. Crew, Brooks Brothers and Ralph Lauren. But prepsters beware, with the rise of casual elegance infiltrating the world of men’s fashion, men’s bow ties are popping up everywhere from college campuses to Wall Street and worn with everything from suits to shorts. As a result, bow ties can be found in almost any high end or cutting edge fashion store from Bergdorf Goodman’s to H&M.

Brooks Brothers appears to have cornered the market on the classic silk bow tie offering an extensive collection of bow ties including solids, stripes, polka dots and prints. Their Social Primer Fraternity Inspired series of bow ties offer the most variety and color options, with most ranging from about $45 to $65 each.

If silk is not your style, head to J Crew for wool, flannel or satin bow tie options all ranging about $52 in price. If these bow ties are out of your price range, head to a high fashion lower priced outlet such as H&M or Uniglo for great fashionable options that won’t strangle your wallet.

Whatever style of bow tie that suits your fancy or tickles your neck, go for it. Bow ties are more hip than ever, can be worn casually or dressed up, provide plenty of fashion, make a bold statement and offer a fresh update to men’s style. Just do yourself a favor, learn how to tie a bow tie. Practice makes perfect and you can find plenty of easy to follow how to guide’s on-line.