Style: There is something about a bow in a toddler’s hair that makes the whole outfit feel finished. But if you’ve ever clipped one in and watched it slide out thirty seconds later, or stared at your daughter’s fine baby hair wondering where to even start – you’re not alone.
The good news: styling a bow doesn’t have to be complicated. Once you know a few go-to techniques, you’ll find yourself reaching for them every single morning. Here are ten of our favourite ways to wear a hair bow, from the simplest clip-in to the sweetest special-occasion style.
1. The Classic Top Knot Bow
The easiest style of all. Gather the hair into a small, soft bun at the top of the head and clip a bow right at the base. It works even on very fine hair — the bun gives the clip something to grip. Perfect for babies who are just starting to grow their first curls.
Best bow for this look: a structured grosgrain bow in a neutral tone.
2. The Side Part with a Single Bow
Part the hair slightly to one side and clip a bow just above the ear on the fuller side. It’s classic, it’s sweet, and it photographs beautifully. This is the style Sophia reaches for on school photo day – simple but intentional.
Best bow for this look: a velvet bow in a seasonal colour – blush for spring, deep red for Christmas.
3. Two Low Pigtails with Matching Bows
Divide the hair into two low sections at the nape of the neck and add a matching bow to each. This style works even on shorter toddler hair and stays put surprisingly well throughout the day.
Best bow for this look: a pair of small satin bows in coordinating pastels.
4. The Half-Up with a Statement Bow
Take the top half of the hair and secure it with a band, then clip or tie a bow over the elastic. This keeps hair out of little eyes without pulling it all back – practical and pretty at the same time.
Best bow for this look: a larger, slightly oversized bow in a seasonal print. This is where you can have fun with Christmas plaids or spring florals.
5. A Bow on a Headband
For babies who don’t yet have enough hair to clip into, a headband with an attached bow is the answer. Look for soft, stretchy bands that sit comfortably without leaving a mark – your baby’s comfort always comes first.
Best bow for this look: a soft nylon or cotton headband with a hand-tied bow.
6. The French Braid Finish
If your toddler will sit still for a braid (we know – a big if), finish the end with a small bow instead of a plain elastic. It turns a simple plait into something that feels really special.
Best bow for this look: a small ribbon bow in a complementary colour to the outfit.
7. High Ponytail with a Bow Wrap
Pull the hair up into a high ponytail and wrap a ribbon bow around the base of the band. This style photographs well from behind – perfect for capturing in candid shots at the park or at a birthday party.
Best bow for this look: a satin ribbon bow in white or ivory – it goes with everything.
8. The Cradle Bow (for Newborns)
For very young babies with almost no hair at all, lay a soft bow clip gently on the very top of the head — no need to clip through hair, just rest it softly. It works beautifully for newborn photos and won’t pull or scratch.
Best bow for this look: a small, lightweight fabric bow in a pale pastel.
9. The Low Bun with a Bow Accent
For slightly older toddlers with longer hair, a low bun at the nape of the neck with a bow pinned to the side has a slightly more grown-up feel – lovely for a family dinner or a special occasion without being overdressed.
Best bow for this look: a structured bow in velvet or satin, in a rich seasonal tone.
10. Loose Hair with a Bow Headband
Sometimes the prettiest look is the simplest: hair left loose and natural, with a bow headband across the top. No styling required. For curly-haired toddlers especially, this lets the natural texture shine while still feeling put-together.
Best bow for this look: a wide bow headband in a soft fabric – linen for spring, velvet for autumn and winter.
A Few Practical Tips
- Always choose clips with a soft lining so they don’t snag or pull fine baby hair.
- Match bow size to hair volume – a tiny bow gets lost in thick curls; a large bow can overwhelm very fine hair.
- For all-day wear, use a clip with a strong grip and position the bow near a natural part, where the hair is slightly thicker.
- Season your bow choices: lighter fabrics and pastels for spring and summer; velvet, satin, and rich colours for autumn and Christmas.
