For centuries, women’s underwear has featured a small decorative bow on the front. While it may seem like a purely aesthetic choice today, this detail actually has historical roots that tie back to both function and fashion.
A Practical Origin
Before the invention of elastic bands, undergarments were commonly secured with drawstrings or ribbons threaded through eyelets. Women would pull the ribbon tight and tie it at the front to keep their underwear in place. The small bow was simply the visible knot left after securing the garment. Over time, even as elastic became widespread, the bow remained as a vestige of this old fastening method.
Dressing in the Dark
Another practical reason for the bow’s placement involves the lighting conditions of the past. Before electricity, women often dressed in dim candlelight or near darkness in the early hours of the morning. The bow served as a tactile marker to help them distinguish the front from the back of their underwear. Without it, they might have put their garments on incorrectly, an issue especially relevant for more fitted styles.
Aesthetic and Cultural Influence
As fashion evolved, the bow lost its functional necessity but became a symbol of femininity and charm. Many cultures have long associated bows with delicacy and softness, making them a fitting decorative element for lingerie. During the Victorian and Edwardian eras, intricate details such as lace, embroidery, and ribbons were frequently added to women’s undergarments to emphasize modesty and refinement. The bow, being a small and elegant detail, was a perfect adornment.
In modern times, lingerie brands continue to use bows to enhance the appeal of their products. The little bow has become a design tradition that conveys a sense of sweetness, innocence, and classic femininity. Even though modern elastic has eliminated the need for securing underwear with a ribbon, the bow remains as an aesthetic nod to its origins.
The Psychology Behind the Bow
There’s also a psychological aspect to why the bow persists. Many fashion elements, even those without any real function, stay relevant because they create a sense of nostalgia or reinforce traditional beauty standards. Bows are often associated with youthfulness and playfulness, which align with how lingerie is marketed. The presence of a bow can subtly communicate a sense of elegance, softness, or romance, making the garment feel more special and intimate.
A Skeuomorphic Design
In design, a “skeuomorph” refers to an element that originally had a functional purpose but is retained for decorative reasons even after its necessity has disappeared. The bow on women’s underwear is a classic example of a skeuomorph. Much like the unnecessary pockets on some fashion items or the stitching details on faux leather products, the bow serves as a familiar and comforting embellishment rather than a practical feature.
Conclusion
Though small and seemingly insignificant, the bow on the front of women’s underwear carries a rich history that blends practicality with aesthetics. What began as a functional way to secure garments has transformed into a lasting symbol of femininity and tradition. Whether worn for comfort, style, or sentiment, the bow remains a timeless touch in lingerie design.
