How to Style a Bolo Tie for Modern Outfits
By Buy Stranahan's | Published: 2026-10-26
Category: How-to Guides
Learn how to wear a bolo tie with contemporary clothes. From casual denim to blazers, these styling steps help you pull off this western accessory without looking costumed.
Quick answer
Wear a bolo tie with a simple open-collar shirt or a blazer for a polished yet rugged look. Keep the rest of your outfit understated so the bolo stands out as the focal point.
Why bolo ties work today
Bolo ties have moved beyond cowboy clichés. Their adjustable slide and cord make them more comfortable than a traditional necktie, and the metal or stone pendant adds a personal touch. The key is pairing them with clean, modern silhouettes so the bolo reads as intentional style rather than a costume piece.
One common misstep is treating a bolo tie like a necklace. It should sit at the collarbone, not hang lower, and the cord should be visible, not hidden under a collar.
How to style a bolo tie in 4 steps
- Start with a simple collar: Choose an open-collar button-down shirt, a henley, or a crewneck tee. The bolo should rest on the chest, so avoid high collars or turtlenecks that cover the pendant. A button-down with the top two buttons undone is the most versatile base.
- Match metals to your other accessories: If your bolo has a copper slide or pendant, wear a copper or brass belt buckle and watch. Avoid mixing silver and copper in the same outfit unless you do it deliberately. Stick to one metal tone for a cohesive look.
- Keep the rest of the outfit minimal: Solid colors and simple textures let the bolo be the statement. Avoid competing patterns like plaid shirts or printed tees. Dark denim, chinos, or wool trousers work well. If you wear a patterned shirt, the bolo will look busy rather than intentional.
- Try it with a blazer or jacket: A bolo tie replaces a necktie under a blazer or sport coat. Leave the jacket unbuttoned so the pendant is visible. A leather jacket also works, but keep the collar open. This combination works for casual weddings, dinner dates, or creative office settings.
Product spotlight
- Maroon Bells Bolo Tie: Handcrafted in Durango, Colorado by Frontera Jewelry, this bolo tie is cast in copper and features the Maroon Bells with a turquoise stone. Copper and turquoise give the bolo a natural, earthy look that pairs well with neutral tones and denim, making it easy to integrate into everyday outfits.
Maroon Bells Bolo Tie
