How to: Tie a dress bow

Tying a fancy bow (in comparison to the way you tie your shoelaces) is one of those skills, like tying a necktie, that I think all grownups should have. Yes, even you men. You never know when a daughter or niece will ask you to tie her dress bow for her! This is a relatively simple skill to learn. 

I’ve chosen to show you on a satin sash, although a stiffer fabric like taffeta will hold the bow better.

Step 1

 

 

 

 

Step 1: Cross the right ribbon under and over the left ribbon. You can do this the other way as well, but will have to switch all the following instruction from left to right or vice versa. I find it easiest to tie the bow with the left side on the bottom. 

 

 

 

Step 2

 

 

 

 

 

Step 2: Form a loop (Loop 1) with what is now the left ribbon. The bottom of the ribbon should be hanging from the underside of the loop (form a loop down rather than up).

 

 

 

Step 3

 

 

 

 

 

 

Step 3: Bring the right ribbon up and over the left ribbon, taking it around the underside of Loop 1. Then, push the ribbon in your right hand through the space behind Loop 1.

 

Step 4

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Step 4: This is what the bow should look like once you’ve pushed the ribbon through to the left side.

Step 5

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Step 5: Tighten the bow by pulling both loops. Adjust the loops until they look they way you want. You may also have to adjust and smooth the middle knot until it covers the ribbon behind it. 

You are now finished! Enjoy!

 

Note: This will take lots of practice if you wish to tie the bow while the dress is on you. Teach a friend and have them tie your bow!

Advertisement