The classic and timeless appeal of the pussy bow collar refuses to fade out. The charming detail made a comeback when designer Alessandro Michele put the spotlight on it in Gucci Fall 2015, presenting it with printed pantsuits and dresses. Since then every brand has toyed with this old-world, elegant and lady-like piece — from high-end luxury labels to high-street brands like H&M and ZARA. In 2016, Melania Trump picked a slew of pussy bow ensembles for her outings during the presidential debates.
Recently, Celine’s Fall Winter 19-20 show under Hedi Slimane saw the knotted blouse making its presence felt yet again. In Bollywood, actresses like Kangana Ranaut, Sonakshi Sinha and Taapsee Pannu have embraced it with great gusto and even actors like Ranveer Singh haven’t shied away from it on the red carpet. “It’s in a semi-formal space and one could either dress it up or down depending on one’s mood or occasion. It has a versatile appeal and works for both evening or a brunch outing,” says designer Rimzim Dadu.
DATES BACK TO THE EDWARDIAN ERA
The feminine essential was also seen on a rock ‘n’ roll-inspired Balmain ensemble in the label’s Fall 19-20 outing. Designer Neeta Lulla observes that fashion is cyclical and anything flattering to the body structure — be it the collar bones or waist transcends into a classic. “This neck detailing has the same feel and look. It dates back to the Edwardian era. It has a feminine appeal and can also translate into a powerful or tailored look," says Neeta.
A FEMINIST MOVEMENT
There’s a great deal of symbolism and deep meaning associated with it. The blouse is the metaphor for strength. Mad Men’s Peggy Olson and Joan Holloway sported it in the period drama set in the ’60s Manhattan. Designer Swapnil Shinde opines, “It represents the feminist movement since women chose to wear them at their workplace in the ’60s as the feminine counterpart to men’s neck tie. It works till date and is a favourite. It’s a combination of soft and hard looks. A lot of women believe in androgynous and sexually-fluid fashion. Some of the best ways to highlight it is to make sure the fabric is soft and sensual. Satins are the best material for this trend along with velvet. If you are experimental like Sonam K Ahuja, you can don it in heavy-duty fabrics like houndstooth to make a statement.”
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