Celebrating National Bow Tie Day

August 27, 2015

The bow tie is classy. It’s elegant yet quirky. Sophisticated yet simple. Of course it deserves national recognition!

Aug. 28 is now formally National Bow Tie Day, a time to appreciate the history and style of the neckwear. As for its history, the bow tie has come a long way to evolve into the stylish neckwear we know today. “The piece originated from cravat with ribbon bows in the 17th century,” said Youngjoo Lee, Ph.D., assistant professor in the Program of Fashion Merchandising and Apparel Design. Cravats, a narrow piece of cloth that could have lace, fringe or knots on the ends, were first worn by Croatian soldiers to keep their collars high and bound together. The piece was worn wrapped around the throat and loosely tied in the front. The adaptation by the French, and soon after the Americans, kept the practicality but added a sense of fashion and style, evolving into a bow tie at the end of the 18th century. “It is a typical example of men’s pursuit of fashion style in the history,” Lee added. And though the piece has continued to evolve over the years, it is still considered to be an essential part of men’s fashion. Celebrities and icons alike keep the bow tie in the public eye. To this day, people still love Charlie Chaplin and his classic-styled bow ties. Everyone knows the iconic image of Bill Nye the Science Guy with his quirky yet adorable style. And what girl didn’t swoon at the sight of “Gossip Girl’s” Chuck Bass in a bow tie? Bow ties are everywhere, and they are certainly a hit. Even on campus, bow ties make a daily appearance down the pedestrium runway. “No one can deny the sophisticated and elegant look of man with bow tie. If you want to express yourself as a refined gentleman, don’t hesitate to wear it,” Lee added. Chris MacDonald, Ph.D., executive director of University Housing agrees. “I wear bow ties because men's business attire is relatively plain, and I wanted a form of expression that was also professional,” said MacDonald. “I also needed something to stand out and distract from the fact I have no hair. Bow ties look great with bald heads.” In addition to adding refinement to a man’s wardrobe, the bow tie has an unparalleled ability to make its wearer stand out from the crowd. “The Doctor [Doctor Who] said it best, ‘Bow ties are cool,’” said bow tie fan Robert Meguiar, training coordinator for the Office of the Vice President for Student Affairs and Enrollment Management. “They are an accessory of individuality enhanced by a broad range of colors and patterns not typically available in the traditional tie. They are a statement of your personality, so wear responsibly, but never take yourself too seriously.” MacDonald leaves those intrigued by the bow tie with this prudent advice: “I enjoy having students and colleagues compliment them, and I encourage them to try a bow tie. But,” he warns, “ABSOLUTELY NO CLIP-ONS...that's, like...lying.” Not sure how to tie a bow tie correctly? Check out our quick instructional video! Are you a bow tie fanatic? If you rock the look, send us your best #TrueBlueBowTie pictures for a chance to be featured on our site!