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When Chanel introduced its Spring ready-to-wear collection back in 1995, it was, to put it simply, the moment. Under Karl Lagerfeld’s creative direction, garments like blazers, tweed, and short skirts became instant staples of the brand and immortalized as classics. However, the real protagonist of its couture would take a while to take over. Reappearing in Chanel’s runways again in ’95, the haute accessory which would grow insanely popular and stick around for generations was… the hair bow, which made a reappearance at the 2022 Venice Film Festival red carpet.
Yup. You read that right. One of Venice Film Festival’s biggest highlights — besides the Harry Styles gossip, of course — has been the black hair ribbon. Whether crowning Sydney Sweeney’s sleek half up-do in velvet or holding Julianne Moore’s low ponytail with an elegant knot, the accessory has been the unexpected, lowkey bet of the season this year. And it may be hard to believe, but their popularity today is not entirely Jojo Siwa-related.
Although somewhat simple, the bow is a surprisingly timeless trend. You may remember them as a part of your childhood, or perhaps you had a galaxy one in the end of your braids — Tumblr-style, of course — throughout the 2010s. But their circling back to 2022 is a little more polished: With a nod to Chanel’s couture and the always glamorous color black, the hair embellishment is more minimal than the bows we are used to, but just as low-effort.
Celebrity hairstylist Gregory Russell — aka the one behind Anya Taylor-Joy’s iconic bows — told Glamour magazine that he loves the accessory because it’s an easy way to dress up hair. And, well, even though the look has been all over the heads of celebrities like Sadie Sink and Hailey Bieber, they are easy to recreate. If you want to DIY the hair bow trend, here are a few options to experiment with!
- Dangling pearl bow scrunchie
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On the Venice Film Festival’s red carpet, Tessa Thompson made a statement with a black ribbon trailing behind her back, showing that a big bow is the perfect way to elevate the basic ponytail into something more sophisticated.
With pearl droplets hanging on the fabric, this oversized Free People accessory is actually a scrunchie that adds a delicate touch to the hairstyle while also being practical.
Darling Pearl Bow Pony, Free People, $28
- Colored ribbons
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The best part of bows? Other than being cute, they are something you don’t necessarily need to buy, if you’d rather do it yourself.
With pretty much any satin ribbon, you can achieve the dreamy look this ornament brings by tying the fabric in your ponytails or at the end of your braids. It’s a pretty obvious trick, but it’s also inexpensive and as (maybe) as stylish as Chanel’s.
UnionJoy 1-Inch Silk Satin Ribbons, Amazon, $10
- Oversize bow clip
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If you want to be bold with your bows, there’s no going wrong with this XL satin hair clip. With an elegant, shiny finish, the accessory can be clipped into any hairdo. Sounds easy… and, well, it is.
XL Satin Hair Bow Clip, Urban Outfitters, $15
- Plaid bow ponytail holder
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This Alexandre de Paris’ hair embellishment is chic and, with its plaid fabric and a ponytail holder, will add texture and confidence to any hairstyle. It is on the expensive side, but could be worth the investment if you’re looking to splurge for a formal look on a night out.
Plaid Bow Pony Tail Holder, Nordstrom, $85
- Petite bow 2-pack
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No going wrong with the classic, petite bow. This dainty accessory is great for all-day wear, not to mention it’s perfect for those who want to just dip their toes into the trend.
- white flowy bow clip
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If black is not your color, worry not. I — or Lulus, at least — got you. This oversized white bow has elongated tails and a flowy fabric that is the definition of romantic, fairy vibes. Dress up your ’90s blow-out with this and you’re Matilda Djerf. Boom.
My Dearly Beloved White Organza Oversized Bow Hair Clip, Lulus, $22