Bows have been having a moment for a while. Ribbon-thin styles tied in the hair or plump velvety styles to accessorise ponytails, or fabulous 80s-inspired party dresses and shoes covered in the pretty detail. We’ve rounded up our favourites, from thrifty high street options to dreamy Simone Rocha pieces to invest in. 

Bows have been a favourite of feminine style for as long as we can remember, but this season they are back, and offering a much-welcomed romantic mood amidst all the sequins and sparkle Christmas brings. Brands like Simone Rocha are leading the way, adding sweet finishing touches in the form of tiny bows sewn into tailored jackets or layers of silk ribbons dripping from tops, looking like a present waiting to be unwrapped.

For a more modest budget but something that still feels unique and special, Brit brands Sister Jane and Queens of Archive are both creating charming dresses perfect for the festive season and beyond. We can’t stop dreaming about that off-white, puff-sleeved and bow-adorned mini dress from the latter. We’d style it up with platform heels and a frosted smoky eye for an excellent Christmas Day look.

If your style errs more on the side of minimalist, you can’t go wrong with a plump velvety bow tied in the hair. Sézane has a Parisian-feel polka-dot number, whilst H&M’s rhinestone-covered piece is screaming “office Christmas party.” And if you’re worried that bows can look a little sickly sweet, toughen them up with loose-fit denim or a chunkier shoe.

Shop the full bow edit below…

A young woman with blonde hair and fringe, wearing a white blouse with frilled sleeves and a subtle bow fashion accent, rests her head on her hand and looks directly at the camera with a neutral expression against a plain background.

Style up with platform heels & a frosted smoky eye for an excellent Christmas Day look.

We love the finishing touch in evening-worthy velvets, silks, and jacquards, but bows also add a cosy edge to daytime knits.

Close-up of a woman wearing a red checked blouse with large bows on the shoulders, embracing bow fashion. She accessorises with a gold chain necklace featuring a round pendant and a small hoop earring. Her face is partially visible, showing a slight smile.

Bows, tartan & puff sleeves… possibly the perfect top to bring out every festive season.

This H&M skirt is a great alternative to a classic LBD. Just add a fine knit poloneck or ribbed vest to let its silhouette sing.

A woman stands against a white wall, wearing a sleeveless black top and a dark skirt with bow fashion detailing at the waist and a front slit. She is in sandals, looking at the camera with a neutral expression.

We always love Liv Purvis’ nod to the ’60s, especially this perfect partnership of cream chiffon and Tiffany blue satin, tied together with a velvety olive bow. Heaven.

The products on this page have been selected by our editorial team, however, The Handbook may make a small commission on some products purchased through affiliate links.


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