Fall 2011 trend: the bow blouse


(Marc by Marc Jacobs/Nordstrom)

Who else is on the fence with the bow blouse trend? I really feel like you have to be right on for this look or it just comes off horribly.


(Juicy Couture/Bloomingdales)

I am busty, not big persay (32DD), but pretty full. Since I have a lingerie background, I have done my gathering of well-fitting undergarments. For some people, this sizing issue can completely make a trend piece look horrible on them. It just does not work. For me, it is having something around my neck for several hours. I just do not like it. Its like a silky scarf, getting fearfully close to the beverage at my desk or draping over my keyboard keys. As if my hair was down.


(Diane von Furstenberg/Nordstrom)

Unless I am wearing a work outfit, heels, hose (of whatever sort), pencil skirt, ballet bun – the bow blouse just does not work. I feel a bit contrived pairing it with a pair of skinny jeans and stilettos. I think I look like a joke. Probably just a proportion thing.


(Alice + Olivia/Neiman-Marcus)

This all being said, maybe my impression will change since now it is a trend. This whole time, I have been wearing vintage bow blouses and these new bold colors may do just the trick. I would love one in a subtle pattern and another in maybe a deep rich jewel tone like a teal… Or both (see below).


(Gucci/Net-a-porter)

I currently own some vintage silk ones from Doncaster, Carlisle, Worth and Juliana Collezione. They have not been worn in a while, and it was fun wearing them in a law office as they were a fun pick-me-up to the regularity of suits and oxfords. Who knows when I will pull them out!


(Robert Rodriguez/Neiman-Marcus)

What do you think of this trend? Did you wear these in their various revivals in the 70s, 80s and hold on to them? Are you hoping to purchase a few pieces for this season?

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Virginia based lifestyle blogger Whitney of WorthyStyle shares her beauty, fashion, gluten free cooking, family life, and more. Follow along!

4 thoughts on “Fall 2011 trend: the bow blouse

  1. If I find the right one I would be on board with this trend. So many are hit or miss. I think they look cute but aren't always flattering

  2. I love the bow blouse. Mango (a Spanish chain) had a variety of different ones a couple of years ago and I bought three that I still have and still love. I'm sure I'll hang on to them for awhile

  3. I love bow blouses too – they really are so universal but you do have to watch to see how your shoulders/bust/waist all impact the overall look. I'm pretty hourglassy but I definitely wear them regularly!

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