1. A Functional Beginning: Before Elastic Existed

• Back before elastic became common in clothing (think 19th century and earlier), underwear couldn’t rely on stretchy fabric to hold itself up. IFLScience+2Women+2

• Instead, people used drawstring ribbons threaded through eyelet lace at the top of their undergarments. Those ribbons were tied in a bow at the front to keep the underwear secure. IFLScience+1

• That bow was functional — not just for looks — because it was the easiest place to tie and maintain tension. beauty.thebustednews.com+1

2. From Practical to Decorative

• Once elastic fabric became widespread (early 20th century), there was no longer a need to tie underwear closed. The drawstring bows lost their original utility. Women+1

• Still, designers and underwear manufacturers kept the bow. Why? Because it was charming, feminine, and a nod to the past. beauty.thebustednews.com+2Daily Express US+2

• Over time, the bow evolved into a purely decorative detail — but with a cute, nostalgic twist. beauty.thebustednews.com

3. A Helpful Front-Marker

• Beyond its decorative appeal, the bow can serve a small but practical purpose today: helping you quickly identify the front of your underwear. Daily Express US

• This is especially handy in low light or when getting dressed quickly. Women+1

• Some people point out that in past times — when rooms were dimly lit or lit by candlelight — that little ribbon was even more useful. Daily Express US

• The bow carries a subtle symbolism: innocence, femininity, and a touch of elegance. Women+1

• It’s also a skeuomorphic design element — meaning, it retains the look of something that once had a practical function, even though today it’s not strictly needed. momentsunfolded.com

• For lingerie brands and buyers, this tiny bow adds charm and personality to what could otherwise be a very utilitarian piece of clothing.

• On Reddit threads, many people say they like the bow because it’s cute and helps them know which side is the front. Reddit+1

• Others aren’t fans — some even remove it because it can poke or feel pointless now. Reddit

• Still, many designers and wearers keep it because of tradition and its aesthetic appeal.

• That bow isn’t just a “why not” — it has real roots in history.

• While it no longer holds up the underwear, it survives as a design tradition.

• And whether practical or purely decorative now, it remains a tiny but unmistakable signature of women’s lingerie.

That little bow on your underwear is a mix of history, style, and just a dash of helpfulness. Next time you see it, you’ll know there’s more to it than meets the eye.