‘Pretty’ is back in fashion, and this time it’s being weaponized

opinion

‘Pretty’ is back in fashion, and this time it’s being weaponized

Nothing says 'feminity' like a bow, and suddenly they're back with a vengeance, writes Jane Macdougall.

It’s just a bow.

A sweet, simple reef knot of ribbon encircling a ponytail or perched at the crown of the head. Satin, grosgrain or velvet, nothing says “femininity” like a bow.

And they’re back. Not since the days of Hayley Mills have bows so dominated the fashion landscape. And not just bows – “pretty” is back.

It’s back without apology.

Without irony.

And it’s been weaponized.

The question is why? And how? And who? And ... huh?!

Before we untie the bow question, consider for a moment the basque waist, another ultrafeminine feature from the archive of the female wardrobe.

What, you ask, is a basque wais