What Is A Pussy Bow?

I've learned from The Man Repeller that on the other side of the pond folks drop the 'Pussy' and just go with 'bow blouse'. But without the operative prefix you could be referring to any old kind of bow, small and rigid, long and firm… (ahem), but in the interest not being vague I prefer the .

A 'pussy bow', also known as lavallière, or a pussycat bow refers specifically to a large and floppy bow on an item of clothing, usually attached to the neck – often of blouses and dresses.

But why?

Cast your mind back to childhood. You remember the Aristocat's right? Do you also remember seeing greeting cards strewn with ribbon-wearing kittens stashed in your granny's sideboard? I do. Yes, well put those dirty minded thoughts away right now because the term 'pussy bow' has evolved from just that; wearing a bow around your neck like that of a cat in bygone times. See, it's all so innocent really. I'm glad to say you don't see many people wrapping their cat in ribbons anymore. Nowadays if you type pussy bow into the web you're presented with an array of beautiful vintage and new pussy bow blouses from online shops across the world, there's a fine example on the left (and yes, it's one of ours).

Pussybow blouses and dresses from our shop below