25 Best Bow Hairstyles For Women

Bows add a touch of whimsy and elegance to any hairstyle, making them the perfect accessory for both casual and formal occasions.

These versatile hair embellishments can transform your look in seconds without much effort.

From subtle ribbon accents to statement-making bow buns, you’ll find endless ways to incorporate this feminine detail into your hair routine.

Bows work beautifully with all hair types and lengths, too.

Ready to add some charm to your locks?

Let’s explore 25 stunning bow hairstyles that will elevate your look and turn heads wherever you go.

1: Half-Up Bow Bun

Create an adorable statement by twisting your top section of hair into a bow shape.

This style gives you the best of both worlds—the elegance of an updo with the casual feel of wearing your hair down.

Secure the center with a small clear elastic and pin the loops in place for a bow that lasts all day.

The beauty of this style lies in its intentional messiness, so don’t worry about making it perfect.

This works especially well on second-day hair when you have a bit of natural texture to work with.

2: Ribbon Bow Ponytail

Elevate a simple ponytail by wrapping a satin or velvet ribbon around the base.

Tie it into a bow at the top, allowing the ribbon ends to cascade down with your hair.

Choose a ribbon that complements your outfit or go for a contrasting color to make a statement.

This quick style takes less than a minute but looks like you put in much more effort.

You can position the ponytail high or low depending on the occasion and your personal style.

3: Bow-Topped Braided Crown

Create a romantic look by braiding your hair into a crown around your head.

Secure the end with a pin, then add a small bow clip right at the top center of the crown.

This ethereal style works perfectly for special occasions like weddings or garden parties.

The contrast between the intricate braid and the simple bow creates beautiful visual interest.

For added dimension, gently pull on the edges of your braid to create more volume before adding the bow.

4: Hair Bow French Twist

Transform the classic French twist by fashioning the top portion into a bow shape.

Pull the ends upward and outward to create loops, then secure with pins in the center.

This sophisticated style offers an unexpected twist on a timeless updo.

Keep the sides sleek for a more formal look, or pull out a few face-framing pieces for a softer effect.

The height of the bow can elongate your face, making this particularly flattering for round face shapes.

5: Mini Bow Accents

Scatter tiny bow clips throughout an otherwise simple hairstyle for a playful, youthful touch.

Place them randomly or create a pattern—either way makes for a charming look.

These work beautifully on all hair types but look especially cute against dark hair for maximum contrast.

Choose metallic bows for evening events or pastel colors for daytime outings.

This style offers versatility—add just one for subtlety or many for a bolder statement.

6: Bow Ponytail Wrap

Create the illusion of a bow made from your own hair by wrapping a small section around your ponytail.

Form a loop on each side, leaving the ends free to blend with the rest of your ponytail.

Secure with bobby pins that match your hair color for an invisible hold.

This elegant style works for both casual days and formal events, depending on how sleek you make the ponytail.

Add some texturizing spray before styling to give your hair more grip and staying power.

7: Side-Swept Bow Clip

Add instant sophistication to any hairstyle by sweeping one side back and securing it with a statement bow clip.

This asymmetrical look frames your face beautifully while keeping hair out of your eyes.

Choose a bow that matches your outfit or pick a contrasting color to make it pop.

This style works equally well on straight, wavy, or curly hair textures.

For special occasions, select a bow with pearl or crystal embellishments for added glamour.

8: Bow Braid Accent

Weave ribbon through your braid, leaving enough at the end to tie into a pretty bow.

This adds both color and texture to an otherwise basic braid.

Choose thin ribbons for subtle elegance or wider ones for more dramatic impact.

This style works beautifully for both everyday wear and special occasions like festivals or holiday parties.

The ribbon also helps keep your braid intact longer, making this both pretty and practical.

9: Top Knot Bow

Secure your top knot with a large bow scrunchie or wrap a ribbon around the base.

This instantly elevates a casual bun into something more styled and intentional.

Position the bow at the front for maximum visibility or at the back for a surprise detail.

This style works perfectly for both casual errands and dressier events, depending on your bow choice.

Leave a few face-framing tendrils loose for a softer, more romantic effect.

10: Low Bow Bun

Create a sleek low bun at the nape of your neck, then attach a bow clip directly above it.

This understated elegance works perfectly for professional settings or formal events.

The low position makes this style comfortable for all-day wear, without the headaches that can come from high updos.

Choose a bow that matches your hair color for subtle sophistication or a contrasting shade for more impact.

This style pairs beautifully with statement earrings since it keeps hair away from your face and ears.

11: Bow Headband Updo

Use a bow headband as the foundation for a vintage-inspired updo.

Tuck your ends under and around the headband, creating a rolled effect that’s both elegant and secure.

This style recalls the glamour of the 1950s while still feeling fresh and modern.

The bow headband does double duty—serving as both decoration and a practical styling tool.

This works especially well for special occasions when you want a reliable style that won’t fall apart.

12: Half-Up Twisted Bow

Create two small twists from your temples and bring them to the back of your head. Instead of simply pinning them, form them into a bow shape and secure with bobby pins.

This delicate style adds interest without overwhelming your overall look.

The twisted sections create natural texture and dimension that flatters every face shape.

For added security, use a small clear elastic to hold the sections before forming your bow.

13: Velvet Bow Claw Clip Style

Update the trending claw clip style by choosing one with a velvet bow attached. This adds a touch of luxury to an otherwise casual hair accessory.

The combination of functionality and style makes this perfect for busy days when you need your hair up but still want to look put together.

The soft texture of velvet elevates the entire look, making it appropriate even for dressier occasions.

Position the clip vertically for a sleeker look or horizontally for more volume.

14: Double Bow Pigtails

Transform standard pigtails by securing each side with a matching bow. This playful style works for all ages and adds symmetrical charm to your look.

Position the pigtails high for a more youthful vibe or lower for a sophisticated take on the classic style.

Choose oversized bows for maximum impact or smaller ones for subtle detail.

This style is particularly flattering if you part your hair down the middle before creating the pigtails.

15: Bow-Tied Bubble Ponytail

Create a bubble ponytail by placing elastic bands every few inches down your ponytail. Then tie small ribbons into bows around each elastic to hide them.

This creates a festive, eye-catching style perfect for parties or special events.

The combination of the segmented ponytail and the ribbon bows creates beautiful texture and movement.

Choose ribbons in a single color for elegance or multiple colors for a more playful effect.

16: Bow Scarf Wrapped Braid

Start a regular three-strand braid, incorporating a thin scarf as you go. Finish by tying the scarf ends into a bow at the bottom of your braid.

This bohemian-inspired style adds both color and texture to your look. The scarf helps prevent flyaways and keeps your braid neat throughout the day.

This works beautifully with both sleek and textured braids, depending on your desired final look.

17: Side Bow Bun

Create a low bun positioned to one side of your nape, then add a bow clip on the same side above your ear.

This asymmetrical placement creates visual interest and unique styling.

The side positioning makes this style stand out from standard center-placed buns.

Choose a bow that complements your face shape—larger bows balance wider faces, while smaller bows flatter narrow face shapes.

This works beautifully for both casual and formal occasions, depending on how sleek you make the bun.

18: Hidden Bow Dutch Braid

Create a Dutch braid (reverse French braid) down the back of your head.

Near the end, insert a small bow clip between the strands so it appears to be woven into the braid itself.

This creates a delightful surprise element that’s visible as you move.

The positioning makes the bow appear as though it’s an integral part of the braid rather than an add-on.

This technique works with any braid style—try it with fishtail braids for even more textural interest.

19: Bow-Accented Space Buns

Create two small buns on top of your head, then add a tiny bow clip to the front of each.

This playful style combines trendy space buns with the feminine touch of bows.

Leave some hair out around your face for a softer effect, or keep it sleek for more drama.

This style works perfectly for festivals, concerts, or anytime you want to add whimsy to your look.

The bows help disguise any imperfections in the buns, making this style forgiving for beginners.

20: Bow Barrette Bob Accent

For shorter hair, use a stylish bow barrette to clip back one side. This creates asymmetry that adds visual interest to bob and lob haircuts.

Position the bow just above your ear for a retro-inspired look, or closer to your temple for a more modern feel.

This simple addition transforms your everyday short hairstyle into something more polished and intentional.

Choose a barrette with a flat back for comfortable all-day wear.

21: Twisted Crown with Bow Finish

Create a twisted crown around your head by taking small sections and twisting them back.

Where the two sides meet at the back, secure with a bow clip instead of a standard pin.

This elegant style keeps hair off your face while still looking romantic and soft.

The bow adds a finishing touch that elevates this from a casual style to one appropriate for special occasions.

For extra hold, apply some texturizing spray before twisting each section.

22: Double Bow Half-Up Style

Take two small sections from your temples and secure them at the back of your head with a bow.

Then take two more sections from just beneath those and create a second bow below the first.

This layered approach creates dimension and visual interest beyond a standard half-up style.

The double bows create a cascading effect that looks intricate but is actually simple to create.

This works beautifully on wavy or curled hair where the loose bottom sections add even more texture.

23: Ribbon-Woven Fishtail Braid

Create a fishtail braid, weaving a thin ribbon through it as you go. Tie the ribbon into a bow at the end, allowing it to blend with your hair.

The intricate nature of the fishtail combined with the ribbon creates a beautiful textural contrast.

Choose a ribbon color that pops against your hair color for maximum impact.

This style looks even better as it slightly loosens throughout the day, making it both beautiful and low-maintenance.

24: Bow-Topped Messy Bun

Create a casual messy bun on top of your head, then add a large bow clip right at the front of the bun.

This combination of undone texture and pretty embellishment strikes the perfect balance.

The contrast between the messiness of the bun and the precision of the bow creates visual interest.

This style takes less than a minute but looks like you put in much more effort.

Embrace the imperfection—the messier the bun, the more the bow will stand out as an intentional accent.

25: Silk Scarf Bow Ponytail

Wrap a silk scarf around your ponytail and tie it into an oversized bow. Allow the ends to cascade down alongside your hair for a luxurious, flowing effect.

The combination of hair and fabric creates beautiful movement when you walk.

Choose a printed scarf for added visual interest or a solid color that complements your outfit.

This style works equally well with high or low ponytails, depending on your preference and face shape.

Conclusion

From playful accents to elegant statements, bow hairstyles offer endless versatility for every occasion.

Experiment with these styles to discover your signature bow look—your hair deserves that extra touch of charm and personality!