It’s not just your imagination—bows are having a major moment in the fashion spotlight, making appearances on everything from shoes to hairstyles and dresses. This trend aligns with the prevailing wave of girlish styles dominating the scene, featuring an abundance of pink, coquette makeup looks, and a focus on fashion inspired by Barbie and balletcore.
Elisabeth Kassab, a stylist and personal shopper, notes, “Bows in fashion are trending right now because women are really leaning into their feminine side this year, embracing being a woman and all the beautiful things that come with that. I love how dainty it is yet still completes a simple look.”
The Surge of Femininity The surge in femininity and girlishness evident in beauty and fashion may be attributed in part to Barbie’s significant influence this year. However, Kassab suggests it might also signify a gentle shift away from the aesthetic of the “boss era” prevalent in recent years.
“I feel like the past few years, women have been in their boss era with the structured suits and oversized blazers, and while I’m still in love with that, I love how we are leaning into a totally different look,” Kassab states.
Bows seamlessly fit into the coquettecore look currently gaining traction, offering a sweet nod to the balletcore aesthetic. Fashion expert Jane Winchester Paradis emphasizes that girly details like bows, pearls, and pinks are in the spotlight due to the strength now associated with all things woman.
“Something that once simply meant ‘pretty’ has taken a larger meaning: Strong, pretty, and smart. It’s so fun to have that massive switch,” says Winchester Paradis. She adds, “There is also something about the feminine nature of bows that never goes out of style.”
Incorporating Bows into Your Outfits Whether you want to lightly experiment with the bow trend or fully embrace it, Kassab suggests bows can elegantly complete a simple look, dressing up anything from a t-shirt and jeans to a sweatsuit.
Here are some stylist-approved suggestions for incorporating bows into your outfit:
Hair Accessories You can’t go wrong with a soft hair bow or a small and glitzy hair clip. Margaret Anne Nolen, fashion expert and founder of womenswear brand Cartolina, recommends a neatly tied bow in the hair, calling it beautiful on anyone.
Try it:
- Kristin Ess Velvet Bow Slide ($14, Target)
- The Hair Edit Bow Sash ($8.50, Amazon)
- Emi Jay Blow Clip ($22, Emi Jay)
Necklines Try a sweet bow at the neckline, such as a velvet ribbon or a necklace with a bow-shaped charm.
Try it:
- J. Crew Freshwater Pearl Bow Necklace ($88, J.Crew)
- Revolve Mini Bow Choker ($20, Revolve)
Around Your Finger Add a playful touch with a bow around your finger or a bow ring. Jane Winchester Paris appreciates the symbolism of a bow tied around the finger, signifying not forgetting someone or something important.
Try it:
- On The Rocks USA 14K Solid Yellow Gold Mini Bow Ring ($198, Etsy)
- Catbird Toy Bow Ring ($158, Catbird)
On Your Garments Incorporate bows into your outfit through garment details. For instance, Kassab loves a bow detail on sweaters, and you can find them on blouses, jeans, and even socks.
Try it:
- Cartolina Peggy Blouse ($248, Cartolina Nantucket)
- Kimchi Blue Marabell Icon Cardigan ($69, Urban Outfitters)
- Nieman Marcus Cashmere Off-Shoulder Sweater with Knotted Detail ($360, Nieman Marcus)
- LuLus Precious Present Black Satin Strapless Bow Mini Dress ($89, Lulus)
