Although the current bow craze might be attributed to overtly feminine fashion conceits—pretty-in-pink “balletcore” or Barbie-inspired girly-girl style among them—16th Century French men were among the first to make hair ribbons a legitimate fashion trend.
“Lovelocks” were long braids tied with a bow and worn over the heart by gentlemen to show they were in a romantic relationship. But bows can signify other things as well: the excitement of opening a gift; the reminder to complete a task (when encircling a finger); and even the support of a charitable cause when a ribbon is worn on one’s lapel. But when a bow’s made from precious metals and gems, the sentiment becomes immortal.
Mudd Pearl Coral Bow sterling silver and pearl earrings, $362
Alison Lou Streamer 14k gold and enamel ring, $835
Sophie Bille Brahe Peggy Rosette graduated freshwater pearl necklace with bow, $5,500
Mason and Books Berkeley's Bow pendant in pink opal and diamonds in 14k gold, $6,200
Irene Neuwirth Pearl Ribbon earrings in 18k yellow gold, $10,020
Staurino 18k white gold and diamond Bow bracelet, $36,600
Anabela Chan 18k yellow gold vermeil Golden Bow ring with lab-grown white diamonds, $2,086
Arman Sarkisyan 22k yellow gold Bow earrings with opal and diamond, $10,500
Arman Sarkisyan 18k yellow gold and oxidized silver Bow bangle with diamonds, $33,880
