The Prettiest Fall Trend Can Cost as Little as $3 But Looks So Expensive

Maybe it’s just me, but I happen to think that you can throw a black bow on pretty much any article of clothing and it will look instantly elevated. From tops and sweaters to casual dresses and evening gowns, there’s something about the little—or big, depending on the case—detail that just feels fancy. That’s why I was quite pleased this past February when I noticed countless bows in velvet, satin, and grosgrain going down the runways of so many of our favorite brands and on a range of pieces. A memory I recently revisited while doing another deep dive into F/W 20 trends last month.  

What’s especially great about this one in particular, however, is that while it does look and certainly can be expensive, it can also cost you as little as $3, as long as you’re not opposed to an easy DIY. All you need to do is buy the ribbon or pre-tied bows—Amazon is a gold mine of them—and sew or simply pin them to any piece you already own. Voila! An instant upgrade awaits. To see the best runway moments featuring the trend and shop ribbons, bows, and clothing that already features them along the way, just keep scrolling.

Your dream dress is just a $3 DIY away.

The goal.

This top has seriously stolen my heart.

You can repurpose this hair bow to use on anything.

Such a chic fall dress.

I love the drama of this extra-long bow.

A black bow on a white dress will always look chic.

Of course Zara is on board.

Tack this onto a coat for a fancy upgrade.

This sweater is high up on my fall wish list.

For $86 I might just have to buy this and figure out where to wear it later.

This feels more like a wardrobe staple than a trend piece.

Who else got instantly excited for fall upon seeing this?

Use this to fashion your own bows to pin onto clothing or as a belt with a bow tie.

The only thing chicer than bows are bows with crystals.

How to take the trend into night-out territory.

Two of these would look perfect pinned to the straps of a simple dress.

Who doesn’t love a statement-making back moment?

Next: 42 things you have to see from Shopbop, Nordstrom, and Net-a-Porter right now.