The bow, an iconic symbol of feminine charm synonymous with fashion figures such as Audrey Hepburn and Brigitte Bardot in the mid-20th century, has experienced a dramatic revival after decades. This timeless accessory’s resurgence was cemented when luxury fashion label Viktor & Rolf showcased oversized bows at Paris Haute Couture Week in July 2023, making a statement that 2023 is undoubtedly the year of the bow.
This throwback trend has permeated all corners of fashion, from hair adornments and necklines to jewelry pieces. Designers, models, and celebrities are reviving this uber-feminine accessory, allowing it to flourish once again in the fashion sphere. At its autumn/winter 2023 show, Sandy Liang sent models strutting down the runway with tiny hair bows, while Simone Rocha, known for its romantic and voluminous collections, chose dainty bows to adorn models’ faces.
The bow’s resurgence aligns with the growing trend of ‘balletcore,’ a style inspired by ballet dancer attire that is currently dominating social platforms like TikTok and Instagram. Balletcore elements such as tulle skirts, ballet slippers, bodysuits, and of course, bows, echo the romantic coquette aesthetic that’s increasingly popular on social media.
Celebrities and their astute stylists are also incorporating bows into their ensembles, with black hair bows making a strong statement at this year’s Met Gala. Hairstylist Jason Tavares points out that fashion icons, from model Hailey Bieber to Duchess Kate Middleton, have warmly embraced the bow trend. He sees it as a delightful expression of femininity and youth, adding a stylish flair to any outfit.
Notable figures sporting bows in 2023 include Indian actress Priyanka Chopra, who wore a Nina Ricci gown featuring a massive bow to the Love Again film premiere in New York. Actress Anne Hathaway graced the Berlin Film Festival in a nude Valentino dress adorned with bows. Jennifer Lopez captured attention at the premiere of Shotgun Wedding, sporting a Valentino gown with a colossal yellow bow, while model Adriana Lima donned a bow dress by Tamara Ralph at the 76th Cannes Film Festival.
Blackpink’s Jennie is another key advocate for the bow trend, frequently spotted wearing Chanel bow-adorned tops and dresses. Self-Portrait, a London-based brand founded by Malaysian-Chinese designer Han Chong, is renowned for incorporating bows into its clothing and bag designs. Olivia von Halle, the founder of her eponymous loungewear brand, sees bows as timeless, romantic, and captivating accessories perfectly suited to the realm of self-expression in fashion.
The bow’s comeback underscores a societal shift toward embracing ultra-femininity. Christine Geiger, the senior designer at swimwear brand Cupshe, believes the re-emergence of this ultra-feminine accessory suggests that power and style can coexist in any form. This notion is further amplified by Australian designer Rebecca Vallance, best known for her Katie Bow Mini Dress, which has graced figures like Paris Hilton and Meghan Trainor. Vallance considers the bow as an enduring signature element in her designs.
In the words of hairstylist Jason Tavares, bows never truly fall out of style. These accessories not only add a feminine touch but also emanate charm and sophistication. The enduring appeal and subtle beauty of bows ensure they continue to be celebrated and cherished in the fashion world.
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