By Julian De Ocampo ’13
THE ROUNDUP 

Bow ties add style to student Mass attire

“A list of bow tie devotees reads like a Who’s Who of rugged individualists,” a 2010 article in The New York Times once explained.

It’s no exaggeration either; just take a look at a few of the most famous bow tie backers in the world: Charlie Chaplin, Frank Sinatra, any iteration of James Bond and the forever-venerable Bill Nye the Science Guy.

The bow tie is more than a silly alternative to the tie—it’s a statement, a declaration of style and eccentricity to which every person ought to have a right.

With the departure of Spanish teacher and bow tie aficionado Mr. Fred Garner in 2011, the bow tie has fallen sadly into disuse during Mass dress days, partly due to the discontinuation of its sale in the Varsity Shop. It’s time for a comeback.

After asking Principal Mr. Bob Ryan and receiving affirmation from Dean Mr. Pat Higgins, I can confirm that the Brophy bow tie is indeed valid attire on Mass dress days. Now all that’s left is to get them back into circulation.

After consulting with the Varsity Shop, the biggest obstacle facing their decision to order new bow ties is that they are not sure if there is enough demand to justify the supply. For the Varsity Shop to return the bow tie to their inventory, the students must voice their interest in the product.

Students, next time you’re in the Varsity Shop, voice your interest in bringing back the neckwear. Sending out a quick e-mail wouldn’t hurt either.

It is important to note that this only applies to Brophy-brand bow ties, not to every piece of neckwear that a student might bring in.

Mass dress is still is not an opportunity to look like a slob or, on the other end of the spectrum, a caricature of a classy dresser. However, the choice of neckwear allows a little more freedom in how you present yourself.

With enough effort on the part of the student body, we can support the freedom of choice when it comes to our neckwear, allowing style to prevail.