THE HISTORY OF BOWTIES

The bow tie is the most classic of all ties. It was the first real knot for neckwear, dating back to the 1700's. The bow tie's resilience is largely a function of the knot's simplicity and for all its highs and lows over the centuries, the bow tie remains fashionable.

The bow tie gets is name from the French, jabot, (pronounced ja-bow), a type of readymade 17th century lace cravat. The current popularity of the black bow tie dates to 1886, when Pierre Lorillard V invented the tuxedo as an alternative to the tailcoats worn with white bow ties. The new dinner jacket got its name from the resort of Tuxedo Park, New York, where it was first worn.

The bow tie became synonymous with evening formal wear as it is the only tie which properly compliments the tuxedo.

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