Picture Credit: Pexels

Last Updated on August 22, 2024

Bows recently bounced back in fashion avenues big time. Writer Pramita Bose checks the trend with designers and fashionistas, exploring how this classic accessory is being reimagined in modern fashion. From runways to street style, bows are making a chic statement everywhere.

The bow fashion trend has visibly staged a comeback of late. From international divas on the red carpet to our very own Bollywood glam brigade in glitzy party circles, all are embracing silhouettes with attractive bows to grab attention. Their bow-fitted gowns and knotty dresses are taking a bow as hordes of shutterbugs go berserk clicking their best shot.

The bow which can be pinned anywhere on the silhouette’s form (giant enough to cover most of the canvas) whether it is the stomach, the waist, the bust, the back, the shoulder, the hat or even the decorative headgear of a stylist’s wardrobe, she is set to rock the party and have a ball.

Picture Credit: Jebin Johny

Eternal Elegance

The fashion fraternity calls it the coquette trend or part of the hyper feminine traits that make it soft, pretty, sweet, romantic, charming, flirty, playful and whatnot. Harking back to the Victorian age of frills and flounces or the retro era of flattering bouffant hairdos and oomphy butterfly-knotted blouses, artistic bows with shapely folds and sometimes neat loose ends seem to redefine today’s fashion with a touch of flair and the timelessness of layered outfits.

Designer Jebin Johny remarks that, “since bows replicate girly fashion, women can therefore explore their supple and beautiful side in abundance. It has a magnetic appeal of its own.” Citing reasons, draper Shilpi Gupta explains that “bow fashion is currently trending because it adds an element of nostalgia while exuding female energy. It is chic graceful and spirited in nature.”

Beyond the Swish Set

The bow-styled fashion apparently sounds classy and showy. But it’s not just that. Slowly but steadily, it has transcended the glitterati galas. “Emerging from the secluded nucleus of haute couture and a flashy wardrobe, bows have gradually penetrated the casual corners over a considerable period. The Gen-Z trendspotters are now pairing classic satin, retro velvet and cute bows with sundresses, tweed dresses, maxis and voguish co-ords,” informs Gupta.

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She further adds that “bows are best paired with tweed co-ords that ooze those old money aesthetic vibes of high-quality materials, flawless craftsmanship and the durability factor with a long lasting impression. Girls also love pairing them with casual jeans, dresses and cardigans for a more comfortable yet stylish look.”

Incidentally, taking inspiration from the worldwide craze of K-pop idols, today’s lissome lasses often carry the bow as a style adornment. For example, their bow-shaped hair clips make them appear a tad smarter and more mod.

Johny claims that “everyday luxury dresses with bows as well as hair bow accessories are noticeably dominating the style diktats in the fashion street. Diet Sabya (a famous fashion and pop culture-based Instagram handle that does rigorous fashion policing) has hitherto popularised the bow trend in India.” He thinks maxis, midis, short dresses and co-ords are some of the other super stylish outfits that can complement the bow fashion trend well.

Picture Credit: Jebin Johny

Print Profile

Fashion watchers recommend prints and patterns to seamlessly match the bow trend. “Bows can amplify your print and pattern story. Pairing a simple bow headband with a heart-printed shirt or coupling it with a long ribbon clip and a striped shirt might elevate the entire getup,” suggests Gupta.

“There is a variety of teeming prints to lie in harmony with bows to lend that ladylike aura,” chips in Johny.

Palette Power

19-yearold college-goer Kanchan Batra reveals to don solid colours or monochromes as she feels that her “colour choices perfectly back the bow fashion trend.” “Such a shade card amps up the overall look of your bow-studded outfit and you can always experiment with diverse hues,” comments the hipster.

Fashion followers are gladly lapping up monochromes when it comes to picking their colour preference. “I feel that’s a safer and more conventional option,” insists Lucy Gomes, an HR professional and a self-proclaimed clotheshorse.

According to Gupta, “every girl must carry a black bow accessory. The gorgeous black is a versatile tint that completes every look by adding richness to the apparel. Besides, neutral tinges work wonders for the bows as neutral tones render that extra womanly allure.”

Picture Credit: Pexels

Bow Variety

From Charlotte bow, Chelsea Boutique bow, classic bow to Victoria and Emma bow — bows are unveiled in an assorted array and are tied in different kinds of knots to woo the fashion fraternity.

“Every bow type, its shape and formation are unique and distinctive. Each creative piece tells an interesting tale of its own to accentuate the look,” shares Gupta who further maintain that “all aforementioned names provide an aided recall value to the specific era that had produced and belonged to the respective bows on the style boulevard.”

Accessory Essentials

Minimalism is the key on the accessories front as bows will steal all the show. “Bows should be teamed up with pearl accessories that promise to refine your look. Less and understated jewellery is the way to elevate your appearance on the whole. In fact, many celebrities have been seen strutting with confidence and carrying the bow with much élan,” opines Gupta. Shopaholics are stacking up kitten heels, gloves, bow blouses and bow sleeves to jazz up their wardrobe.

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Sari Saga

Indian outfits like saris and other garments may also flaunt bows to grab the onlookers’ attention.

“Yes, the nine-yard drape and other desi clothing items can be stapled with brilliant bows to add a zing to its pleats and pallu. It is the best way to fuse traditional Indian with contemporary funky fashion. This spells out a breath of freshness to the look, thus making it stunning, stylish and desirable to the hilt,” confirms Gupta.

Echoing this response, Johny says that “definitely Indian wear will scale a notch higher if it boasts a bow. We make some amazing bows in our workshop for sari blouses. They look absolutely exquisite and strikingly ultra feminine.”

Picture Credit: Jebin Johny

Foot Fetish & Bag Swag

Even footwear and bags can flaunt bows. Shoes and handbags sporting bows should invariably make a statement to your walk-in closet. Clutch bags and high-heeled pumps pinned with bows lend a different dimension altogether and a teasing visual impact to your outfits. Today’s detachable bow accessories for footwears are adding versatility.

Swanky stores of leading lifestyle brands, namely Loewe, Steve Madden, Mach & Mach, Kate Spade to Cuyana Bow among others silently brag about their bow collection in bags and shoes on their racks. The raiders are of course, not complaining!

Men May Take a Bow

Can men really exhibit bows anywhere else other than their conventional bow ties on the suits?

Well nowadays, male celebrities and fashion influencers are placing bows elsewhere other than using the same as the customary bow ties on blazers, coats or a three-piece ensemble. “Bows add a dash of quirkiness and character to your dressing. If anyone wants to be innovative with fashion and be inspirational, then he or she might opt for bows. Who knows, you could go instantly viral with your offbeat sartorial inclination and selection!” notes Gupta.

Johny proposes the idea of incorporating bows as decorative pocket squares and brooches in menswear. “Such an enviable fashion accessory will definitely arrest eyeballs and make a man stand out of the crowd for sure,” he asserts.

Pramita Bose
  • This article, written by Pramita Bose is a freelance writer with expertise in features, health, and finance. With a strong journalism background as a reporter and blog editor, she explores the world with curiosity, translating her insights into meaningful expression. Fascinated by the power of words, creativity drives her through life’s challenges.

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