Some of us have always been fans of bows – they’re ultra feminine, pretty, and simple. Traditionally, bows may have been thought of as an embellishment for heels or hair clips — but now they're everywhere. At Christmastime you may have seen the internet going crazy for silky bows tied to Champagne coupes and candles, and now, bows are one of the fashion world’s hottest trends.
Bows of all kinds are having a moment — and they're not going away anytime soon. It’s not too much of a surprise, given that the 'coquette' trend in general is huge right now. This style is all about embodying an ultra-feminine look — and whilst the original terminology translates from French as 'flirtatious' — the modern coquette trend is more about rosy cheeks, dainty details, pearls, lace, and (of course) bows.
You’ll spot this style all over social media, on the runways and in almost every high street store. “The coquette trend is easily achievable and accessible to the masses,” says Fashion Stylist Billie-Jo Skelton. “Unlike a lot of other trends which require a certain brand or label to be worn (such as the quiet luxury trend), you can lean into this look with something as simple as a bow in your hair.”
You may associate wearing bows in your hair with much younger years (or indeed, school uniforms) but now they're wearable in so many ways. First up you have bows added onto pieces, such as the tips of heels and ballet pumps, or added embellishment on chunky knits. Then there are graphic bows, printed on t-shirts and sprayed on denim. And lastly, there are practical bows which can be used to tie cardigans together or lace up boots.
Billie says that she would recommend “using bows as shoe laces to tie up grungy boots for a cute juxtapositional look,” to add a touch of elegance to everyday casual. “Replacing buttons with bows on your knitwear to tie up a cardigan” is another great tip, along with “tying a silk scarf in a bow around a handbag strap for a French inspired look.”
In keeping with Billie's advice, here's exactly how to add bows to your wardrobe and elevate your everyday style...
The versatile bow
These jeans from Never Fully Dressed have been redesigned from the brand's best-selling shape trousers, and will go with absolutely everything. A subtle nod to the trend, you can dress them down with some trainers and a white tee, or add a going-out top when the sun sets for a chic evening look.
Never Fully Dressed Denim Tie Side Trousers, £89
The classic bow
It doesn’t get much more classic than a white tee, and we love this mix of casual and cute from H&M. In an oversized fit and with a ribbed trim around the neckline, this t-shirt is ideal for everyday wear. The subtle cut-out adds a touch of femininity, too.
The loungewear bow
If you’re not quite ready to take the bow trend to the streets yet, you can still channel it at home. This headband from Boux Avenue is great to wear whilst washing your face, applying skincare or lounging in the bath.
The nautical-inspired bow
A beautiful vintage-inspired blouse from British powerhouse designers Rixo, this silk crepe-de-chine blouse has flouncy blouson sleeves and fitted cuffs. Paired with a slight a-line cut, this gorgeous blouse combines nautical style with the bow trend, making it a blouse you’ll reach for each season.
The earring bow
These earrings channel the coquette trend for the sweetest finishing touch. If you're looking for a subtle way to wear bows, pair these with a plain t-shirt and some denim or an A-line dress for a look you can wear at any time.
The spring bow
Extremely subtle but on-trend nonetheless, this dress from River Island comes in a white and black polka dot and chartreuse green. The midi cut and high neckline make it suitable for office wear, but add some statement earrings and heels and you’re ready for drinks in the evening.
The hair bow
A set of three gorgeous silky clips from Anthropologie, this set is a great way to dip your toe into bow wearing. In three easy-to-wear colours, each of these will pin into loose hair or an updo quite easily with their crocodile style clips.
The practical bow
This khaki bucket hat from Anthropologie is perfect for festivals, sunny dog walks and throwing on during bad hair days – it’s a great way to wear the bow trend if you want to add a finishing touch to a practical buy.
The shoe bow
A a classic from Loeffler Randall, these pleated heel sandals are crafted from an organza fabric and topped with the brand’s signature bow. Not only are these heels super stylish, but they’re incredibly comfortable. Whilst they may be an investment, you’ll be able to wear them with countless outfits for years to come.
The timeless bow
Easy to dress up or down to suit the occasion, this pussybow blouse from Ghost comes in staple ivory and black, and is a must have for those who want to ensure their purchase will never go out of style.
The on-trend bow
A combination of three much loved trends — this blouse showcases a Peter Pan collar, gingham and bows. Layer it with plenty of gold jewellery and your favourite denim for a chic weekend look.
Nobody's Child Green Gingham Peter Pan Collar Long Sleeve Blouse, £55
