A Timeless Tradition: The History of the Holiday Bow

I love bows. (I know, big surprise!) And the other day, as I was working on finding different bow patterns, it got me wondering– where did the idea of a bow actually come from? Why did we start using it for holidays and decor?

The answer surprised me. The history of the holiday bow is rich, spanning centuries and cultures and withstanding the test of time, whether the bow is tied around a wreath, securing the perfect gift, decorating a festive table, or being hung on a front door. Take a dive with me to see how they became such a beloved part of holiday traditions!

Where It All Began: The Origins of the Holiday Bow

Bows have been used for decoration for centuries—seriously, they go way back. The earliest known use of ribbons and bows dates to the Roman Empire when they were used to adorn gifts, clothing, and even soldiers’ armor. Silk, linen, and wool ribbons were tied into intricate knots and bows, often symbolizing wealth and status.

Fast forward to the Middle Ages, and bows were popping up everywhere, especially in fashion. Aristocrats loved adding bows to their outfits, using luxurious fabrics like velvet and satin. But bows weren’t just for style—people also began tying them around gifts, symbolizing thoughtfulness and generosity, a tradition that still holds strong today.

How Bows Became a Holiday Staple

The holiday bow as we know it really took off during the Victorian era. The Victorians were all about elaborate holiday decor, and bows became a go-to for dressing up everything from Christmas trees to garlands. As holiday traditions like Christmas trees and gift exchanges grew in popularity, so did the use of ribbons and bows to make everything feel extra special.

One of the most iconic uses of bows in holiday traditions is on presents. While people have been exchanging gifts for centuries, it wasn’t until the late 19th and early 20th centuries that wrapping paper and ribbons became widely used. The final touch? A perfectly placed bow on top—because no gift feels complete without one!

Why Holiday Bows Will Never Go Out of Style

There’s something about a bow that just works—it’s classic, elegant, and instantly makes things feel more festive. Whether tied onto a wreath, wrapped around a staircase banister, or placed on a front door, bows bring warmth and cheer to any space.

Front door bows, in particular, have become a signature holiday look, offering a welcoming touch for guests. Whether it’s a classic red bow for a traditional Christmas feel, a glittery gold one for a little glam, or a rustic black or cream bow for a cozy farmhouse vibe, there’s a bow for every holiday aesthetic.

Fun Facts About Holiday Bows

• The Biggest Bow Ever – The largest holiday bow on record was made in 2018 and measured over 17 feet wide! It was part of a holiday display designed to break a world record.
• Bows as a Symbol of Love – Back in the Victorian era, women would tie bows in their hair or around love letters as a sign of affection.
• The Secret to a Perfect Bow – Ever wondered how some bows hold their shape so well? Florists and decorators often use wired ribbon to create full, structured bows that stay in place all season long.
• Not Just for Christmas – While we tend to think of bows as a Christmas staple, they’re also popular for other celebrations like Easter, weddings, Thanksgiving, and even patriotic holidays!
• Bows Are Having a Moment – In recent years, oversized bows have made a huge comeback in home decor. Thanks to Instagram and Pinterest, statement-making bows for front doors, staircases, and mantels have become a must-have holiday trend.

Why We Love Holiday Bows (And You Should Too!)

At the end of the day, holiday bows are more than just decorations—they’re a symbol of joy, tradition, and warm holiday welcomes. Whether they’re adding the finishing touch to a wreath or your front door, they have a way of making everything feel just a little more magical.

At A Bow or Two, we’re all about keeping this tradition alive with beautifully crafted bows that bring charm to your home. Whether you love the classic red look or a floral design, there’s a perfect holiday bow for your style. After all, it’s that little extra touch that makes the holidays feel even more special.

Happy decorating!