Hidden history of the bow: Surprising origins of panty decoration

It might seem that the bow on the panties is just a charming decoration. Few people know that it once had an essential function that would surprise many.

Lace, cotton, full coverage—the choices are extensive. Panties are an essential element of clothing that accompanies us every day. If you pay attention to details, you've surely noticed that some panties have a decorative bow. It turns out that 200 years ago, this unassuming element significantly made life easier for many women. What does the bow on panties mean?

Nowadays, underwear serves not only a protective function but also a decorative one. We can choose from hundreds of different patterns, colors, and styles. Particularly popular are Brazilians, briefs, thongs, and seamless panties. Two hundred years ago, women could only dream of these options. That doesn't mean they didn't have lovely underwear. It was then that the bow was invented, which still adorns many panties today.

Few people know that this unassuming element had a practical application back then. In times when there was no electricity, women often had to dress in the dark. The bow placed on the front of the underwear helped them identify which side of the panties was the front and which was the back. This allowed them to put them on even in pitch darkness.

Another theory regarding the bow on panties dates back to the time before the invention of elastic bands. Back then, underwear was kept in place with a ribbon threaded through holes. The ends of the ribbon were tied in a bow at the front, preventing the panties from slipping. In both cases, functionality played a key role.