What Is a Kentucky Colonel Tie?

• Shape: Wide, flat ribbon with tails that forms a bow or knot at the neck.
• Fastening: Typically pre-tied in band collar or clip-on versions today, though some self-tie styles may be available.
• Adjustable: Band collar versions can be tightened to fit comfortably around the neck.
• Materials: Often made polyester for durability.

While the Kentucky Colonel tie shares some characteristics with crossover or bow ties, it more closely resembles a bow made from ribbon, emphasizing symmetry. Unlike a traditional bow tie, it has two hanging tails, though they usually extend only about five inches. This is much shorter than a standard necktie, which typically hangs around 20 inches on an average man.

These four tie styles share some similarities, but each has its own look and history.

The Kentucky Colonel tie is a wide ribbon that forms a structured bow with two short hanging tails, usually worn centered at the collar. Traditionally, it’s formal, classic, and often associated with ceremonial or honorary wear.

The Western tie, sometimes used interchangeably with the Kentucky Colonel tie, generally refers to any tie worn in cowboy or ranch style. It can be a bow-like tie or a narrower string tie, often paired with Western shirts, vests, or cowboy jackets.

A string tie is a thin piece of ribbon or cord that loops around the collar and is tied in a simple bow or knot. It’s lightweight and flexible, popular in both Western wear and vintage-inspired outfits.

The bolo tie is distinct from the others and consists of a cord or braided leather loop fastened with a decorative slide or clasp. It hangs straight down rather than forming a bow, and it’s closely associated with Southwestern and cowboy fashion.

Unlike a Kentucky Colonel tie, which sits flat at the collar in a bow-like shape, a bolo tie features a cord with decorative tips that slides through a clasp, creating a distinctly Western look.

Today, Kentucky Colonel ties, Western ties, and string ties are often grouped together as the same style of tie, with minor variations in width or how the ends hang.

The Kentucky Colonel tie is worn much like a necktie or bow tie, neatly centered at the collar of a collared shirt. For a more rustic or traditional look, it can be layered with a vest, and it also pairs well with a suit or sport coat for a polished, classic appearance.

A brown Kentucky Colonel tie paired with a vest and denim creates a rustic look that feels both traditional and timeless.

If you’re wearing a pre-tied Kentucky Colonel tie, the style is mostly set for you—the ends lie flat against the shirt with fixed lengths. Self-tie versions allow a bit more flexibility, with some wearing it slightly narrower or with a subtle dangle depending on uniform guidelines or personal preference.

• Uniforms: Often used in fraternal or ceremonial uinforms, including club attire, where a polished, traditional look is required. Some restaurants and hotels use Kentucky Colonel ties as part of their staff uniforms.
• Special Occasions: Suitable for formal events, award ceremonies, or Southern heritage celebrations.
• Individual Style: Can also be worn by individuals seeking a distinctive, vintage-inspired accessory.
• Costumes: Kentucky Colonel ties are a popular costume accessory at Halloween, and are often paired with a bucket of chicken.

Kentucky Colonel ties get plenty of love in the costume world, from Halloween to themed events—like this couple dressed up for an old west gambler night.

Even if you're new to Kentucky Colonel ties, you've likely seen one before. A well-known pop culture example is the Kentucky Colonel from KFC, whose distinctive uniform includes a wide, formal tie as part of his iconic look.

In true cowboy style, Gary Cooper can be seen wearing a Kentucky Colonel tie in the 1952 film High Noon, highlighting the tie’s role in classic Western attire.

TieMart offers a wide selection of pre-tied Kentucky Colonel ties, perfect for both organizations and individuals. Choose from classic black and traditional shades like brown, white, and navy, or stand out with harder-to-find colors such as bubblegum pink, emerald gold, and light purple. Each tie features an adjustable neckband and pre-tied bow, so anyone can achieve the perfect look, no tying required.

A Kentucky Colonel tie is a wide, formal bow tie that emphasizes symmetry and tradition. It remains a staple for ceremonial and staff uniforms, Southern heritage events, and polished formalwear, while offering individuals a distinctive, classic style for special occasions.

TieMart is a family-owned online retailer specializing in men’s neckties, bow ties, and accessories. Their collection classic ties for the office, paisley favorites for weddings, school stripes for uniforms, and hard-to-find styles like those Kentucky Colonel ties. With affordable prices and fast shipping from their Midwest location, TieMart makes it easy to find the perfect tie for any occasion.