Last year’s “girlhood” became a trending topic that infiltrated food, finances, and fashion and is crossing over into 2024. Girlhood represented the shared mindset of relatable experiences distinctly between women. The early beginnings of the social frenzy started with “Girl Dinner,” a viral fad where users showed their evening meal with random food items or light snacks to substitute for cooking or lack of groceries. “Girl Math” became famous for its amusing TikTok videos where women jokingly explained justifications for personal spending habits. Now, the latest expansion of the phenomenon is one that is not only familiar but also nostalgic for Gen Z as they resurrected hair bows from a childhood accessory and turned the style into a fashion statement.
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In the past, hair bows were primarily used to keep hair in place. Ponytails, high/low buns, puffballs, and plaits remain everyday hairstyles for which young girls use these accessories.
The traditional boutique hair bow is looped and tied to create the centerpiece, adding an innocent, playful appearance that comes in various colors catered to children.
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More varieties of classic designs, such as the thin tassel version and even tuxedo-style bows, appealed to young girls.
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Inadvertently, the designs and various fabrics of the different bows added dimension and vibrant colors that turned any kiddy hairstyle from basic to decorative.
As “girlhood” transcends into other facets, the reboot of the hair bow is its latest addition to its growing evolution. Gen Z is rebranding the hair tool as an ornamental accessory, making it a must-have item. With the growing obsession with vintage fashion, this timeless piece provides the feminine and retro aesthetic many Gen Z content creators aim to cultivate.
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Social media influencers have also shown their version of following the trend with the hashtag #ribbonhairstyle. Popular influencer Monet McMichael filmed herself placing a large black bow into her hair in a half-up, half-down updo in a video, contributing to the viral TikTok trend with more than 254 million views.
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Hair, beauty, and fashion influencer Olivia Emanuel did a braided ponytail hairstyle that she shared with her 204,000 Instagram supporters, giving a step-by-step on how to achieve the look.
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The versatility of it being worn as a clothing item or hair clip made the bow’s resurgence multifunctional, inviting adults to experiment with modernizing the accessory. A hair bow’s ability to add dramatic or subtle elements makes it easier to switch up any look conveniently. Despite being a childlike tool, the multifaceted use of hair bows has made them accessible for people of all ages to use at their disposal.
Adults are adding their twist to the trend. Tracee Ellis Ross, Rihanna, Quinn Wilson, and other celebrities have been seen on red carpets wearing hair bows as part of their ensembles or hair do’s.
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Instead of holding hairstyles together, they are now used as fashion pieces to compliment outfits, adding a youthful flair.
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This popular trend will be around for a while, from wearing hair ribbons as fashion statements to finding creative ways to include bows in different hairstyles.
The options are endless when trying to achieve an effortless look for your curls to flourish underneath the hair bows. Using a curl custard adds definition to curls, coils, and waves. Top it off with hair oil for moisture and a refreshing sheen mist for shine before adding the hair clip.
1. Aunt Jackie’s Curls & Coils Curl La La Defining Curl Custard
2. ORS Olive Oil Girls Oil Moisturizing Hair & Scalp Lotion
3. Coconut Restore Moisture and Shine Mist
Like what you see? For more inspiration, check out these accessories for your next hairstyle!
