The symbol of classic aesthetics in contemporary styles

by Zoe Avraamides

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From wealthy adornment to the star of ballerina chic, ribbons are continuously tied to fashion.

Ribbons have always been a symbol of daintiness and femininity, often used in dance recitals or tied in the hair of little girls. But their post- pandemic resurgence proves they are an influence in the fashion industry that should not be minimized. The beauty of the long, silky fabric is that it can be wrapped, worn and styled in a multitude of ways. There is no limit to the ribbon; new ways are constantly being created to include the fashion accessory in an everyday outfit. 

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The ribbon is not a revolutionary fashion item; it has been around for centuries decades. Initially used as a clasp to lace items together, ribbons were a symbol of wealth, only worn by bourgeoisie the few who could afford themit. They were frequently used in hair in the 18th century or even for furniture accents in the homes of the wealthy. 

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More modernly, the bow came back in the handbag designs of Salvatore Ferragmo and with individual’s styling of the Hermes Birkin bag. Fans of the trend tied angelic porcelain ribbons around the straps of their dark leather, slouchy hobo bags to individualize a high fashion piece. This created an eye catching contrast between the divinity of the ribbons and edge of the leather bags.

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Following their revolution in the mid 20th century, ribbons made a speedy return with the micro-trend of ballet core. Today we can see ribbons sewn into flats to create straps for the shoes you can lace up your ankle. The craze of using ribbons as laces quickly translated into sneakers.s. Silky baby blue ribbons were quickly replaced with sneaker laces on Adidas Sambas or Gazelles. Ribbons continuously are used to add an ultra-feminine touch to items in fashion that have been societally deemed as masculine.

 

Beyond being repurposed on footwear, we now see a comeback of the ribbon in couture houses  like Ganni and Miu Miu. Ganni, a Danish label, includes ribbons in many of their ready-to-wear items. Their masculine silhouettes in their boxy puffer jackets are contrasted with the ribbon closures that serve as the buttons on the coat. 

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Similarly, Miu Miu, a high fashion brand that is a subsidiary of Prada, often integrates  into the ballerina core in their designs. Miu Miu are well known for their edgy leather ballet flats that are laced up with gingham ribbons. Both brands use the ribbon to create a persona for their unique aesthetics.