Holiday outfitting comes in many forms. From the cool girls who artfully incorporate metallics and lush velvet into their chic ensembles, to the seasonally-inspired who don red tartan every day until December 25 (I don’t mind sharing I am of the latter)—the range of seasonal, festive dressing that makes itself known every December is truly incredible.
As someone who views fashion as a creative outlet, I personally love going all-in on seasons and look forward to breaking out my many fair isle and tartan pieces every year on Black Friday. But you don’t have to be an over-the-top dresser like me, or an always-on-trend fashion girl to embrace festive dressing during the holiday season. If you want to make your outfits instantly more “holiday” with minimal effort, all you have to do is—drum roll please—add a bow.
While it’s far from an earth-shattering revelation, hair bows are ridiculously festive and can truly holiday-fy just about any look with a quick clip of the barrette or tie of the scrunchie. While bows have always been a holiday decor staple, their use as a fashion accessory has proven to be one of the top accessory trends of 2023. From Sarah Jessica Parker to the queen of cool, Matilda Djerf, celebrities have been putting bows in their hair all year—and there’s no better time to try it out for yourself than now.
How to Incorporate Hair Bows Into Your Holiday Looks
While hair bows have been getting their fair share of use year-round, they’re arguably best suited for the holiday season. As we dive head first into December, don’t be afraid to reach for hair bows as a simple way to instantly make any outfit more festive. Here are some ideas to kickstart your seasonal outfitting.
Use a Bow to Hold Up Your Ponytail
Perhaps the most quintessential way to style a hair bow, using one to dress up a ponytail is a no-brainer. The femininity is a beautiful contrast to the effortlessness a ponytail brings, especially if you leave a few face-framing pieces of hair loose. Another way to achieve the look without having to finagle a hair tie just so is to tie your hair up as normal and attach a bow with a barrette.
Decorate a Half-Up ‘Do
Stayed out a little too late at a holiday party? Grab the dry shampoo and an oversized bow barrette for a half-up, half-down ‘do that comes together quickly and gets you through the work day looking both chic and adorable.
Add Multiple
Weave Ribbon Through a French Braid
For a look that nods to a Scandi Christmas aesthetic, weave a ribbon into a single French braid. A bow tied at the end keeps the braid together and adds delicate charm.
Top Off a Silk Ensemble
For romantic and ethereal Clara-from-the-Nutcracker vibes, pair a silk or satin dress with a lace bow. While both pieces boast a soft, feminine aesthetic, the subtle contrast in texture visually breaks up the outfit and adds appeal.
Dress Up a Bun
The holiday season is a busy time of year, full of running around and the subsequent desire to keep your hair far out of your face. As you’re busy shopping, setting up your tree, and baking cookies, use a bow to dress up your favorite practical bun.
