The Easiest Ways To Tie a Bow on a Dress

Bows are a functional and fashionable addition to any type of outfit.

Dresses are no exception.

But you may be wondering, how do I tie this bow without detracting from my dress?

A properly tied bow can level up an outfit, but a miss-tied bow could leave you distracted all day.

Bows are part of fashion history, becoming a massive trend in the 1860s and lasting all the way to our future. 

 We are here to explain how to tie the perfect bow on a dress and share my favorite dresses featuring daring bows. 

What Are the Different Types of Bows?

Classic Bow

You can never go wrong with the classic bow.

No matter where this bow is placed on a dress, it will always look simple yet elegant.

The steps to tying a classic bow are relatively simple.

1. Make sure that the ribbons are even.
2. Then, tie a knot with the ribbons.
3. Make a loop on each side of the knot with the ribbons, and then tie those loops together.
4. This should leave you with a completed classic bow. 

Double Bow

The double bow is a more complicated take on the classic bow.

This bow requires more steps and can be tricky to get the hang of.

We recommend practicing this bow before implementing it on a dress when you plan to go out.

You begin the double bow the same way that you begin the classic bow.

1. Check that both ribbons are even.
2. Tie a knot where you would like your bow to be placed.
3. Now, instead of making a single loop, make one loop and then another right next to it, on both sides of the knot.
4. This should look like four loops, two on either side of the knot. 
5. Finally, tie those together to complete the double bow.
6. Feel confident and rock that bow.

Half Bow

Half bows are a modern take on the bow trend.

A half bow can be added to a pair of casual pants or be featured on a piece like a maroon dress to give it a chic twist.

Tying a half bow is very similar to tying a classic bow.

1. You begin the same way, tying the ribbons into a knot.
2. However, you only loop the ribbon on one side of the knot.
3. Tie the ribbons together again.
4. This will give you a trendy half bow.

Bow Placement: All Our Favorite Options

Shoulder Bows

If the bow on your dress is on the shoulder of the dress, especially delicate shoulder straps, you typically don’t need to worry too much about how neat the bow is.

The thicker the straps, though, the more you want to make sure to tie your bow neatly.

A dress with thin straps that tie in a bow is typically more casual.

We love to elevate a thin-strapped dress with additions like a long, flowing tulle bow.

Thick straps are the essence of drama but may show flaws more easily.

In both scenarios, We’d opt for the classic bow.

If we were to head out in a dress with thicker straps, we’d take an extra second or two to make sure that bow was flawless.

Wrap Dress Bow 

Wrap dresses tend to be more casual dresses, so we love opting for a classic bow or half bow.

A double bow on a wrap dress would likely distract the eye and overpower a simply functional part of the dress.

A classic bow  shows how bows are both function and fashion: it cinches neatly at the waist, creating a lovely silhouette, but it also offers a touch of whimsy. 

Front of Dress Bow

If the bow on your dress is in the front, take extra care when tying it.

A bow on the front of a dress is typically the focal point of the ensemble.

You can tie a bow in the center of the dress for a classic style.

Or, you can tie it to the side for a modern asymmetrical take on the classic “front of dress” bow, like on the off-the-shoulder dresses.

Back of Dress Bow

Tying a bow on the back of your dress can be quite tricky, as it’s a hard-to-reach place and even harder to see.

There are a couple of solutions to solve this issue.

If it’s possible, you could tie the bow before stepping into the dress.

We know this usually isn’t a possibility, but it’s worth considering.

Another solution would be to place two mirrors facing each other.

When you stand angled in the middle, you can watch your hands tying the bow.

However, the easiest solution is to ask someone else to do it for you, if possible. 

Tie Bows Styles

Now that you know the basic you can elevate your style with this fashion ideas:

 The Classic Loop-Through Bow

The timeless loop-through bow is a must-know. Here’s how to nail it:

• Start by crossing one ribbon over the other.
• Form a loop with one side, then wrap the other ribbon around and through the center.
• Pull both loops gently for a neat, balanced bow.

This classic style works great for dresses with waist ties or back ribbons.

The Flowy Side-Tie Bow

Want a carefree vibe? Go for a side-tie bow!

• Adjust your dress’s ribbon to sit on your side rather than the center.
• Tie a loose bow, letting the ends drape elegantly down your dress.

This look pairs well with floral or maxi dresses for a romantic touch.

The Minimalist Knot-Bow Combo

Perfect for those who prefer subtle details.

• Tie a simple knot first.
• Then, loop the ribbon once into a half-bow, leaving the ends uneven for a laid-back aesthetic.

This style is trendy yet effortless—a total win for minimalist fashionistas.

The Butterfly Bow

This intricate style is surprisingly easy:

• Fold the ribbons into small loops resembling butterfly wings.
• Secure them with a knot in the middle.

The butterfly bow adds an adorable, whimsical touch to your look.

The Ribbon-Wrapped Bow

Elevate a plain ribbon by wrapping it creatively:

• Wrap the ribbon around your waist two to three times.
• Tie a small, neat bow on the side or at the back.

This style creates a sleek, tailored finish—ideal for formal dresses.

The Layered Rosette Bow

Channel floral vibes with this unique design:

• Create several loops with the ribbon, layering them like petals.
• Tie a tight knot at the base to secure the “rosette.”

This bow adds a touch of artistry to your outfit and is great for special occasions.

Wrapping It All Up in a Bow

Figuring out the ideal way to style a bow on a dress can be challenging.

You can never go wrong with a classic bow, but a double bow adds an extra layer of flair to any dress.

The half bow is a great way to add a contemporary twist to an outfit.

If you consider where the bow is and what material your garment is made of, this guide will help you decide on the best type of bow for any dress with OnPost.