Tracing the origin of the men's and women's bow tie remains a complex exercise, as its history is intertwined with that of the tie .
According to one of the most widespread theories, the bow tie appeared before the tie , in the 17th century .

At that time, Croatian soldiers wore a piece of fabric tied around their neck during the Thirty Years' War.
This accessory, used to fasten the collar of their shirt, resembled more a primitive bow tie than a true tie.

Other historians believe that the bow tie is an evolution of the ruff, a lace ornament from the 17th and 18th centuries, tied around the neck to add refinement and presence to the outfit.

Finally, some attribute this invention to the English dandy George Bryan Brummell, a figure of the 19th century, who is said to have imagined a more complex tie knot, a direct ancestor of the modern bow tie.

An timeless symbol of elegance, mastery of style, and distinction, the bow tie remains today one of the most iconic accessories of the contemporary gentleman.