Discreet, charming, sometimes satin or lace… the little bow sewn onto the front of women’s underwear may look purely decorative.

But this tiny detail—found on most styles—actually carries a history far richer than it seems. What if this simple ribbon was the remnant of a tradition that is practical, historical, and symbolic all at once?

A discreet but very useful marker

Before anything else, this tiny bow isn’t just for show — it serves a surprisingly practical purpose.
It simply marks the front of the underwear.

A simple but highly effective trick when you’re getting dressed in a hurry, in low light, or when the design doesn’t clearly distinguish the front from the back. This small detail avoids plenty of morning confusion — and, admittedly, adds a lovely touch of delicacy.

A heritage from another era

The history of the little bow goes back several centuries, long before elastic existed.
In the 17th and 18th centuries, women’s undergarments were held in place with ribbons tied at the waist or in the front. These ties allowed the garment to be adjusted and secured.

As fabrics evolved over time, ribbons became less necessary… but the act of tying a bow remained. Out of habit, and later for aesthetic reasons, manufacturers kept this small symbol, transforming it into a decorative detail.

As historian Denis Bruna explains, the bow already represented femininity and attention to detail — values still strongly associated with today’s lingerie.

A smart marketing advantage

Beyond its historical charm, this bow now plays a strategic role in modern underwear design.
Lingerie brands use it to evoke quality, softness, and craftsmanship.

According to Faustine Baranowski, a designer at Promostyl, the little bow reinforces the image of a refined product made with care. It hints at luxury, even on the simplest styles. This discreet ribbon has essentially become a visual signature of lingerie expertise.

A timeless symbol of femininity

Whether it’s black on lace, blush pink on soft cotton, or tone-on-tone on seamless underwear, the bow remains an elegant, timeless touch. It embodies delicacy, romance, and refinement without ever being flashy.

It’s also a reminder that lingerie is more than comfort — it’s an expression of style and self-confidence.

In summary

The little bow on women’s underwear is:

• A practical marker to show the front,
• A historical legacy of old ribbon ties,
• A symbol of elegance and attention to detail in lingerie.

This tiny ribbon, almost unnoticed in everyday life, actually tells the story of several centuries of fashion and female craftsmanship. Proof that even the smallest details can hold a big history.