Bow Blouses

Bow Blouses

Pussy Bow, Tie Neck or Bow Collar

Blouses with a bow go by several names, and the differences are small but useful to know. A pussy bow blouse has two long ties attached to the neckline that fasten into a soft, floppy bow at the throat. The style became a workwear classic in the 1970s and 1980s, when it was worn under suit jackets as a softer alternative to a tie.

A tie neck blouse has the same long ties, but they can be knotted, bowed or left hanging loose, so it is more flexible. Many shops use tie neck and pussy bow for the same style. A bow collar has the bow sewn in place, or built into the collar itself, so it always looks the same and needs no tying.

A blouse with a bow can also have the bow somewhere other than the neck, such as at the cuffs, the waist or the back. These are lighter details and give a softer, more playful look.

Fabric changes the effect too. A bow in soft chiffon or satin drapes and falls gracefully, while a bow in crisp cotton stands up more and looks neater.

The size of the bow matters as well. On a petite frame, keep the loops short and neat so they sit tidily under a jacket; a large, soft bow makes more of a statement and works best when the rest of the outfit is plain. With a fuller bust, tying the bow a little higher, close to the throat, keeps the line clean.

Three Ways to Tie a Bow Blouse

The classic bow is the most polished. Tie the two ends in a simple knot at the base of the neck, then form a loop with one end, wrap the other around it and pull it through, just as you would tie a shoelace. Adjust the loops so they are even and let the tails hang down the front.

The loose, trailing tie is more relaxed. Knot the ends once and let them fall freely, or tie a very loose bow lower on the chest. It suits jeans and weekend outfits and looks less formal.

The single knot, sometimes called a scarf knot, is the simplest. Tie one knot to the side of the neck and let the ends hang over one shoulder. It gives an easy, slightly vintage look.

You can also leave the ties undone, draped down the front like a long scarf. This works especially well when the blouse has a V neck, as the ties lengthen the line.

Whichever style you choose, a quick press of the ties before you dress helps the bow hold its shape, and tying it in front of a mirror keeps the loops even.

Bow Blouses for Work and Formal Days

A bow blouse is one of the easiest ways to look put together at work. Under a blazer, a neat bow fills the open neckline of the jacket, so you need no necklace. With a pencil skirt or tailored trousers, it looks polished and professional.

For formal events, a bow blouse in a smooth satin or silky fabric looks elegant with a long skirt or wide-leg trousers. A black and white bow blouse is especially versatile, as it suits both evening and daytime events.

Keep other accessories simple, as the bow already provides detail. A plain watch and tiny earrings are usually enough, and a slim belt or a simple bag keeps the focus on the neckline. If the ties are patterned, pick one color from them for your trousers or skirt. Office-friendly shapes are gathered among our work blouses, and the formal blouses page covers dressier occasions. Bows appear on many vintage blouses too, and collared blouses show other ways to finish a neckline.