Journal

Shibori and Olaf Olsson Neckwear, Neckties, and Batwing Bow Ties.

The Japanese Art of Shibori

Shibori is the Japanese art of dying fabric and garments using a technique of resist dying that produces intricate patterns. It is an ancient art i...

Batwing bowties, Olaf Olsson, Walter Gropius, Bauhaus, and Modernism.

Walter Gropius, Modernism, and Batwing Bow Ties

Walter Gropius was one of the most highly regarded architects of the 20th century and one of the founders of the Bauhaus movement in Germany. He w...

Tying a Batwing Bow Tie (or any other bow tie)

Tying a bow tie is often thought of as being very difficult. But once you’ve taken a little time to learn, we think you’ll find it’s as easy, if no...

The Batwing Bow Tie

The Batwing bow tie, often referred to as the straight or slim bow tie, is not as well known as the the common butterfly bow tie. It is usually 2” ...

Sashiko, Boro, and the Indigo Patchwork Necktie.

The Indigo Patchwork Necktie by Olaf Olsson is a heavy weight cotton printed with traditional Japanese Sashiko patterns arranged in a random patchw...

An Indigo Matsu Bow Tie

The evergreen pine tree, or matsu, was loved by Samurai warriors as a symbol of everlasting prosperity. Another symbol of prosperity in Japan is th...

The Indigo Komon necktie and bow tie use the samekomon pattern from Japan.

An Indigo Samekomon Necktie

Imitating the look of sharkskin has a long history in fashion. While most people are familiar with the sharkskin suit, most are unfamiliar with the...