BY JB JONES
There’s something about a bolo tie that feels off-script, but in the best way. It’s out there doing its own thing, completely independent of anything else. And in the arsenal that is your jewelry box, it can be a powerful secret weapon.
It’s offbeat pieces like bolos, the ones that exhibit effortless style authority, that have the ability to elevate hum-drum outfits into captivating ensembles. Want to be the person at the party no one can take their eyes off? Try the bolo.
While pinpointing the exact origin of the bolo is tough, the Southwest U.S. claims it as its own. It’s the official neckwear of Arizona and New Mexico. And now, of course, it’s synonymous with western wear.
And in the grand arc of jewelry history, it’s still a relative newcomer; so really, it’s just beginning to figure out all it can be. As singular items do, the bolo has circled the trend loop several times over the decades.
But I’m happy to report that it is currently making its chicest return yet.
The latest bolos often include fluidly forged metal or carefully beaded chains, replacing the stiff braided leather rope-and-turquoise styles of yore. They’re full of fun details such as hand-crafted tassels and lab-grown diamonds (replacing those dated metal buckle slides). Really, bolos are becoming a full-fledged luxury item. Even Cartier dropped one.
Below are a few of my favorite bolos on the market:
Leading the pack of the bolos’ must-have era is BOLOLA, a new NYC-based brand dedicated solely to the bolo. Their pieces are plated in gold and rhodium, showcasing western-inspired stones—think turquoise, amber, lapis and citrine—accented with lab-grown diamonds. They honor the bolo’s Southwestern roots while simultaneously birthing totally fresh iterations. Founded by two luxury world veterans, these are destined for “It” items in 2026.
The innovative Brooklyn-based silversmith Heath Wagoner recently dropped a bolo into his offering of objects and art. The Oyster Bolo Tie is a striking sterling silver version adorned with a black pearl - an inspired and naturalistic take that is as elegant as it is cool.
Apsáalooké artist Elias Jade Not Afraid, one of the most celebrated young beadworkers in the country, uses beading to reimagine what a bolo tie can be, elevating it into a work of art.
