This spring, bows get bold

One of the most romantic trends on the catwalk and red carpet this season is the arrival of bows. From big bold bows on one-side shoulder, back, waistline to small detailed bows on sleeves, hems and blouses – there is a lot you can do with a plain outfit if you are willing to put a bow on it! The pretty bows made an impactful appearance on the Oscars red carpet this year as couture houses like Balmain, Valentino, Givenchy, Giambattista Valli, Versace and Alexandre Vauthier adorned dazzling evening gowns with bow details.

While these pretty things can be worn on dresses, jackets, hats, frocks, hair and even as a stand out accessory for hair, bow-tie or on the bags – the latest trend this season is experimenting the bows with prints like floral, leopard and geometric designs. Designer Dharna Hassija points out that bows give an ultra feminine look with an option of keeping it bold or subtle. She says, “This year, one can see massive bows being draped on shoulders, waist and hips for an evening couture look. One can wear big or small bows on a statement blouse, neckline or sleeves in sheer or fluid fabric for a feminine daytime look. Bows are pretty much the only embellishment you need to make an outfit stand out. Smaller bows are also trending right now as a hair accessory, in delicate jewelry and on shoes and handbags too. There’s a fine line between making clothes that are girly to the point of childishness and those which are unabashedly feminine in a sophisticated way. The trick is to keep accessories to a minimal if you wearing a stand out bow in your ensemble.”

There’s something so elegant about bows that speaks of opulence and delicate sense of style, that’s why this season fashionistas just can’t get enough of this trend. Designer Vaishali S believes the sweet and dainty bow has always been around but now its standing out more than ever. She says, “There are various ways to get the bow exactly right – if you are going for a night look – think oversized! A one shoulder oversized bow always stands out and can be layered over the top of both neutrals and patterns. A prominent bow is already a big accessory, it depends on where it is placed though. If you have a prominent bow in the front – use minimal accessories – for example a chic school girl look with a crystal headband or just hoop earrings. A cute midi skirt cinched at the waist with a bow looks uber classy and chic, not to mention it amps up your ladylike vibes. Puff sleeves, polka dot skirts also go really well with bows of any kind.”

While designer Anjalee Kapoor tells us how to incorporate bows into everyday looks in a variety of ways. She says, “You can always dress up jeans and a shirt dress with a silky bow to upgrade a simple outfit. Add a black oversized bow to a white shirt and throw on a pair of cat eye glasses for that office/day look. Our favourite is the peek-a-bow, which is added to the back of a dress. A backless dress with a bow looks super cute – perfect for date nights, girls’ night or any other super fun night. Also floral bows are trending big time for 2019 – just add them to a simple silhouette and you are ready for a night out. Bow accessories can be used to dress up your locks in a messy bun with even a cute side braid. A big no would be too many bows – one bow is all you need.”

Although bows have a reputation for being worm on formal occasions, there are many ways to add it to your wardrobe by pairing them with casual looks.

Whether you want to be bold or keep it subtle, bows are instant conversation starters in an outfit so make sure to place them right. Designer Suruchi Khanna remarks, “Bows add a lot of fun and energy to an ordinary daytime or evening look. Bows when draped in soft and shiny fabrics along with the outfit, add an extra touch of style. It not only adds drama to your garment but also accentuate femininity. Wear it in solid colours or add a touch of quirk with printed bows – just make sure to keep them as the only highlight and neturalise other elements in the outfit.”