Bow headbands: hair accessories trend

Bows. They’re the more time-tested and socially acceptable cousin of bunny ears, a trend that took the fashion world by storm in 2009. So, heading into 2010 fashion trends, are bows the accessory that will outlive the bunny?

• Where we’ve seen them
• How to wear them
• Trend longevity
• Inspiration pictures

Click the thumbnails for full pictures:

Where we’ve seen bow headbands

The Spring 2010 collections saw a number of designers send bows down the runway. Most notable were Marc Jacobs, Luella, and Temperley – while Diane von Furstenberg‘s Resort 2010 collection was also filled with big, playful bows.

How to wear bows

Let me say it straight off. Bows may sound all harmless and innocent; but there are dangers with this trend. You could wind up looking like 80s Madonna, a collector of cheap kitsch, or unintentional Goth Lolita. The key here is not to skimp on the bow. They’re only good in so far as they’re unique and/or high quality. You’re also making a statement so make it oversized, luxurious, and fun. Another way to wear it is with a headscarf tied up 1940′s working girl style.

Look for:

• Bows (or scarves) that tie all the way around the head (think Marc by Marc Jacobs’ bows, or Louis Vuitton’s original big bunny ears)
• If you don’t want a bow as such other elegant takes like Peter Som‘s are classic yet unique (see pictures in the picture inspiration gallery)
• Luxury fabrics like silks, leathers, knits
• Floppy bows that mildly resemble bunny ears as an extention of that trend

Avoid:

• Anything too childish or tacky
• Mass produced versions that lack character and charm
• Cutesy headbands. There has to be a bit of sophistication or attitude in there.

Longevity

We don’t expect oversized bows to remain an editorial favourite for long, given their freshness has already worn of a bit. But that doesn’t mean you shouldn’t invest in one. Pick the right accessory, and make it your own – an individual look you love can last beyond the life of an accessory trend such as this one.