Wearing a bow in your hair, on your bag, on your belt, or your shoes is undeniably feminine and ladylike, but it can be a little too overly girlish for some of us. It is a major trend right now, however, and there are plenty of ways to pull off the beribboned trend without looking too juvenile or like you’ve borrowed from your kid.
How To Wear Bows
Here are some of the most current (and grown-up) ways to put a bow on it — with sophistication.
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Bows On Your Flats
A jaunty bow is perfect on a ballet flat (a silhouette that’s also back in a big way). We’re fans of this pointy-toed version from Rothy’s, available at Nordstrom, which feels polished.
Bows On Your Bag
Tying a scarf around your bag handle not only protects it from the elements (and lotion or whatever else might be on your hands), but can be an ideal way to add some extra color or pattern to your ensemble.
An Hermes twilly might be the classic (and pricey) way of getting this look, but twilly-type scarves are available at all price points and patterns. Try indie designers for something more unique, like this red rose graphic print option from Silk & Soul via Wolf & Badger.
Bows On Your Sweater
Why settle for simple buttons when you can add a chic bow (or several)? We love a cardigan with a bow on it like this ivory and black option from Avec Les Filles.
Or try this burgundy one from Favorite Daughter—both would be excellent with relaxed trousers or even jeans for a more casual outfit.
Bows On Your Jacket
A blazer or jacket with a bow closure(s) adds some visual interest and femininity that’s unexpected, especially if the rest of the piece is more strictly tailored.
Note that a large, suitably sculptural bow can be a tough ask for even the best tailor, so the more elegant options can be pricey. If you think the style is worth the splurge, we’re obsessed with this black Sandro tuxedo jacket with a satin bow. It would be amazing paired with the coordinating pants or over a little black dress for a dressed-up occasion, or dressed down with suede or leather pants (even ultra-dark denim).
Bows On Your Hair Clip
An actual hair bow might be a little bit much, but a bow-inspired barrette or similar accessory can be just enough, like this very affordable option from H&M that’s a little more elegant than your standard claw clip.
Bows On Your Dress
A dress with a bow is a classic, and we suggest going for a bow with some volume and gravitas for your next evening soiree. This Elliatt cocktail frock with the dramatic bow in the back is just about perfect, and at just under $200 it makes for a fun twist on the classic little black dress. Note: This mini can also be worn as a tunic top over slim black pants.
Do you enjoy a good bow, or do bows, ribbons, and similar design elements not play a significant role in your wardrobe? How do you mix them into your outfits? Let us know in the comments or on our Growing Younger Facebook page!
–Jacqueline Zenn
You may also like to read Belts are Back: 7 Ways to Define Your Waist in 2025 and High Necks, High Style: The Winter 2026 Neckline Trend We Love.
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