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If it's good enough for Chanel, Dior and Giambattista Valli.... Spring Hook
Just when we thought hair ribbons had had their high-fashion moment at the 2024 Golden Globes red carpet, Couture Fashion Week SS24 proved that even the most influential fashion designer can't resist the pull of a beautifully tied, crisp hair bow.
But trust couture power players such as Maria Grazia Chiuri and Giambattista Valli to go above and beyond yet another basic ribbon.
The former's intricate, ribbon-adorned braided low up-do is a polite nod to the brand's past AW23 Couture outing which showcased basket-weave braids, yet looks forward with a more romantic, ethereal feel. The 18th century is also a key point of reference for Monsieur Dior, so it's no surprise that Chiuri - along with hairstylist Guido Palau - has successfully managed to translate saccharine ribbons of previous centuries into modern little black bows.
To have a tight ballerina bun would be too on the nose for Chanel's ballet-inspired collection, so hair was instead left soft and flowing to juxtapose a jet-black, starched and oversized bow. Also dialling up the proportions is Giambattista Valli (hair by Pier Paolo Lai), proving that two (or three) XXL velvet ribbons are far better than one, especially when worn with showstopping taffeta ballgowns. Even better, team your bow-embellished ponytails with a garden's worth of blooming roses. It is a spring show, after all.
"With bows, the way to make it look cool and grown-up is to give the hair some polish and shine," says A-list hairstylist and creative director at John Freida Salons, Zoë Irwin. She recommends blow-drying the hair with the nozzle facing down the hair shaft to give a salon-quality finish, before using the GHD Platinum+ to smooth over the strands. Misting your brush with hairspray and then working it through your ponytail will also help tame any flyaways and add extra hold.
If you're veering towards a proper classic, try this wearable satin ribbon from UK-based Roop. The perfect addition to any half up-do or ponytail, this scrunchie works beautifully on medium to long lengths.
Ease into the trend with this affordable, yet no less chic, option from the high street. Double strands bring something extra special while the barette design ensures that the bow stays put on your ponytail.
This neutral hue is a great everyday option that still adds interest to a hairstyle thanks to the pleated texture.
You'll struggle to find a more classic, sophisticated bow than this velvet iteration from Jennifer Behr. Effortless to wear, it adds a seamless air of playfulness to any elegant attire.
Headbands are a quick way to elevate any simple hairstyle. If you're often short for time, this stylish yet subtle bow goes with everything and takes seconds to upgrade your look.
This flowing bow is ideal for longer hair lengths. With cascading ribbons and a delicate bridal look, it is versatile, delicate and ever-so classy.
This floral bow sits in the comfortable middle between eclectic and sophisticated. With a crystal bug detail, here Erdem offers a traditionally neat design with a little added sparkle.
This glossy grosgrain clip is a what we'd call a safe statement; strong, dazzling, but never garish. With the same crystal-embellished buckle that adorns the brand's covetable footwear, it's tasteful, modern and a timeless must-have.
This maximalist faux pearl bow is a dream for any bride-to-be. A delicate yet feminine statement, this hand-sewn clip features lightweight tulle for natural, ribbon-like movement and a classic French barrette closure.
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