The bow tie is back

Sam Glaser

Wednesday, Nov. 2, 2011 | 8 p.m.

After decades of accessorizing the pocket-protector crowd, the bow tie is following clear glasses, suspenders and cardigans in becoming the latest nerd-turned-hipster style trend.

Geek chic gained coastal momentum three years ago from runways and diverse trendsetting gentlemen such as Andre 3000 and David Beckham, but bow tie history dates back to 17th century Croatia, starting as a functional solution to hold shirts together. During the subsequent two centuries, the French aristocracy adopted and evolved the look into the charming fashion statement that we recognize today. While French-American relations have been testy in recent years, The Weekly is reporting from the high road to say merci for this sophisticated style.

1. Classic Stripe bow tie, $55, available at Brooks Brothers Forum Shops at Caesars Palace, brooksbrothers.com.

2. Playful Jackson bow tie, CottonTreats, $26, cottontreats.com.

3. Luxe Lanvin velvet bow tie, $185, available at Barneys New York at The Shoppes at The Palazzo, barneys.com.

4. Preppy Madras plaid bow tie, Urban Outfitters, $20, urbanoutfitters.com.

Alternative Can’t loosen notions of bow tie nerdiness? Try an audacious reincarnation of the traditional pocket square, like these silk show stoppers from Pretentious Pocket. Our favorite: The Bateman—'80s excess meets present day elegance with hues of ruby, vermillion and gold ($58, pretentiouspocket.com