Tulane University
Decked out for the holidays
December 16, 2011 10:15 AM
Kirby Messinger [email protected]
Looking for something different to jazz up your wardrobe this holiday season? Benjamin Azevedo, a
third-year Tulane medical student, might have just what you're looking for. His handmade bowties
are the perfect touch to deck the halls.
Several School of Medicine faculty members regularly wear his creations, says Benjamin Azevedo.
(Photo by Paula Burch-Celentano)
The third-year medical student started making bowties on a whim. Needing a break from studying,
he decided to stretch his creative abilities.
“I thought, I've been in New Orleans for awhile now and they are really into bowties. Let me try to
make one,” says Azevedo, who is from Livermore, Calif.
His attempt proved successful and friends encouraged him to begin selling his bowties. The
business has gained momentum in the New Orleans community.
Azevedo's creations marry the classic bow tie cut with a flamboyant take on colors and patterns.
“They are outside the realm of the traditional New Orleans look but we've got this classic cut that
looks good tied and un-tied,” he says.
Despite his bowtie success, Azevedo is dedicated to a medical career.
Tulane University | New Orleans | 504-865-5210 | [email protected]
Tulane University
Although he loves exercising his creative side, Azevedo says medicine is still his passion. His
experience creating and running a business has strengthened his management skills, which will
better prepare him for a future as a physician. Plus, he says, studies have shown that it's more
hygienic for physicians to wear bowties rather than regular ties.
Bowties are no longer a look reserved just for men. Women are embracing bowties as a way to add
a pop of color to their wardrobe. Azevedo says he has several female customers and thinks it's a
versatile look for women. “Bowties go with anything,” he says.
Azevedo's website has a video that teaches how to tie a New Orleans bowtie.
Tulane University | New Orleans | 504-865-5210 | [email protected]