If there is a fashion trend that is here to stay and slay, it’s bows. From Christmas trees to hairdos to symbolising all things ‘pookie’, bows are everywhere. They are now a must-have hair accessory. Even celebrities cannot resist them. Alia Bhatt dressed up in red for her Christmas celebrations and there was a stunning bow in her hair.
She is not the only one. Malaika Arora Khan also wore a bright red bow recently. What is interesting is, unlike most fashion trends, the proliferation of bows as the ‘it’ accessory has not taken the ‘trickle down’ route. From Sarojini Nagar to Khan Market, bows were already a street-style staple long before celebs started posting them on their Instagram. Best part? You can make one yourself, depending on how aesthetically you can tie a ribbon knot.
Of course, much of the credit goes to South Korean TV shows and movies. As K-dramas have become popular among Indian viewers, they have brought along cultural imports—particularly a love for all things ‘cute’.The bow, worn in many of these K-dramas, is one such fashion import.
The delicate feminine touch the accessory adds to outfits makes it all the more desirable. Whether one is dressing for a walk in the park or a dinner date—a bow is appropriate for all occasions.
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Shape of bow
Bows of all kinds—satin, and lace, printed and embroidered—are very ‘in’. Bow-themed nail art, sweaters, and even cakes are trending on Pinterest boards. It’s almost as if Beyonce’s famous song “If you liked it, then you shoulda put a ring on it” could now be reworked as “If you liked it, then you shoulda put a bow on it.”
This is one fashion trend that knows no age limits. Unlike the era of low-waisted jeans or leather and lace chokers, bows are for everyone. Women and other fans of cute accessories of all ages are on board, and flaunting it, no matter the hair length or style. It is about tapping into your inner child and celebrating cuteness—something that truly has no age.
Folks on Instagram are ‘cashing’ on it in a wholly different way. To acknowledge the green flag behaviour by their romantic partners, or men in general, a pink bow is put on their forehead. It stands in exact contrast to toxic masculinity.
I don’t about you but bows, for me, are about that festive feeling, and they also encourage self-love. That is why even on social media, everyone is tying a bow on themselves or those around them. It can revamp any look. A boring sweater? Put a bow. It is as simple as that. It doesn’t cost much.
It is the bow era, and we are living it.
Views are personal.
(Edited by Ratan Priya)
Ms. Das, do you really think people care who is wearing what?
It’s a shame that you think this is what journalism is.
Excellent piece of writing.