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Whether worn at the office or a wedding, bow ties are a small but impactful accessory that can elevate a man’s look. Available in a wide variety of textiles and styles, these fashion pieces make it easy for wearers to express their personality while maintaining a formal appearance. But how did this classic item come to be so popular? To better understand the evolution of the style, here’s a quick look at the history of the bow tie and how it became a staple of men’s formal wear.

The Bow Tie’s Transformation Over the Years

The Croatian Cravat

During the Thirty Years’ War, Croatian military members were known for wearing tied scarves to bind their shirt collars together. Known as cravats, these uniform pieces caught on with French soldiers, who eventually brought the style back to their home country. Soon, the French aristocracy began adopting the functional accessory as one reserved for style.

The Birth of Bow Ties

In the following decades, the French upper class continued to experiment with the cravat, eventually leading to the bow tie. While the exact birth of the bow tie remains unclear, it is theorized that the traditional core-and-winged accessory was created by George Bryan Brummel, one of the first known “dandies” who maintained close friendships with royals and wealthy citizens. As a popular figure of the time, his use of this new accessory quickly became popular among his peers.

The Tuxedo Look

mens formal wearIn 1886, French-American clothing designer Pierre Lorillard IV made a bold move and wore a different kind of black-and-white suit to a social event at the Tuxedo Park Country Club in New York. Now easily distinguished as a classic tuxedo, this men’s formal wear cemented the bow tie’s place in fashion history.  

A Woman’s Work

As cinema became more pervasive in the 1930s and 40s, starlets such as Marlene Dietrich and Katherine Hepburn were seen wearing the bow tie. Their take on the piece made an impression in the fashion world, and many women began experimenting with this masculine attire.

Cultural Changes

While the bow tie remains a quintessential part of men’s formal wear, it’s no longer contained within this segment of fashion. Between the latter half of the 20th century and today, the accessory has been adopted by many cultures and style types, allowing it to become one of the most versatile garments in the modern world.

 

When you want a bow tie that completes your look, choose Zaccariello’s Tailor & Formal Wear in Wallingford, CT. This tuxedo rental shop offers a wide range of men’s formal wear, including bow ties, formal ties, and satin tuxedo shirts. Whether you’re getting ready for a wedding or prom, this team will introduce you to options that not only fit great but also look flawless. To learn more about their styles and tailoring services, visit these suit rental specialists online or call (203) 269-8652.

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