Fashion: An Ode to the "Pussy-Bow"

In the September 2015 issue of Glamour magazine,  I came upon an interesting article named "Peace Out Pussy Bow!" (1).   As I read the article, I realized that I have long been wearing this retro trend without having a clue of its actual name.  I usually refer to it as the 'blouse with the bow" or "blouse with a tie" without knowing that there was deeper meaning behind it.  As I soon discovered that this was "the feminine take on a man's necktie" (2) I was amused and pleased at the same time.  Sure, the name is rather atrocious and sexist but sometimes we need to let the boys know that we are able to laugh at ourselves.  There has been some debate on changing the name, I say keep it.  It is a word filled with history of strong female pioneers (3) and I think by changing it, it shows the world that we are ashamed of our femininity.  I think I'm going to love wearing the "pussy-bow" more knowing that it is a secret just for the girls.   

Now that we are done with the history lesson, lets get back to the blouse.  I guess it wasn't a surprise to me that I was drawn to wearing this style.  I was always attracted to "female androgyny"  because it gave me confidence.  Instead of wearing it like its name, I decided to wear it differently by looping it around my neck and leaving it undone.  This way it gives of a effortlessly refined look without seemingly trying too hard.  In the summer time, I love wearing floral because it just reminds me of the pretty flowers outside.  I think a great way to infuse trends into your work wardrobe is to add just a touch of it in there.  For example, you can just simply add this blouse underneath your blazer and tucked under a tapered trouser pant,  and you seem both trendy and polished at the same time.  You can tie it in a bow or leave it undone.  Both are great options.   For this look, I actually didn't wear a blazer because it was too hot and I didn't think you need it.  But if you really want to,  I say pair it with a white blazer to match with the pants so you can stay cooler and more crisp.  

I didn't feel as if the outfit needed much jewelry , so I opted for none.  Instead I just added my favorite minimalist bucket bag by Mansur Gavriel and black leather pumps for a simple and classy office look.  Sometimes less is more.  

Thanks so much for reading and I hope you have enjoyed my piece on the amazing "pussy-bow" blouse.  If you want similar look on how to style this blouse please visit my other look with the link below: 
http://www.glamouraspirit.com/home/fashion-floral-flare-jeans

As always don't forget to like, comment and share my piece and follow me on Instagram and Chictopia for more updates and pics.  Until next time, stay chic and glam!

Xoxo- Spirit

Blouse: Zara ( last season)

Trouser: Zara ( old)

Shoes: Zara (old)

Bag  Mansur Gavriel (kirnazabete NYC) 

* Note for Canadian bag enthusiast the bags are now available at Holt Renfrew! Call your local personal shopper today for more details.  Good luck! 



Footnotes: 

 (1) (2) Davis, P Allison.  "Peace Out "Pussy Bow"!".  Glamour Magazine. Glamour Do's & Don'ts. Sept 2015 Ed. p. 116. 
(3)  Morrissey, Tracie Egan.  "The Feminist History Behind Your Floppy Bow Blouse, Which Is Actually 'Pussy Bow Blouse"   . published Feb 27 2013.  http://jezebel.com/5987375/the-feminist-history-behind-the-pussy-bow-blouse