That little bow on women’s underwear isn’t just decoration—it has history.
Long before elastic waistbands, underwear was kept in place with a ribbon tied at the front. “The bow hid the knot and added a decorative touch.” It also helped women quickly know which side was the front, especially when dressing “by candlelight or in the dark.”
As underwear design modernized, the bow stayed. What began as practical slowly shifted into tradition and style. Now it’s seen as a feminine, playful detail.
Even though it no longer serves a functional purpose, the bow remains a link to the past. Designers keep it as a small reminder of fashion history.
So next time you see that bow, remember—it’s more than cute. It’s a centuries-old design choice that evolved from necessity to timeless charm.