Those unmistakable bow blouses that were once the buttoned-up symbol of the Thatcher era have undergone a major transformation this season. Designers like Alessandro Michele at Gucci have reclaimed the prim and proper top for modern magpies who are more interested in the new wave of bohemia than the old ways of conformity. Today’s pussy-bow blouses are often sheer, trimmed with lace or paired with free-spirited staples like military-style jackets, velvet skirts and wide-leg trousers. What in the world would Margaret say?
For 12 new ways to wear the pussy-bow blouse right now, click on the gallery below.
How to Wear Pussybow Blouses
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How to Wear Pussybow Blouses #1
To update the pussy-bow blouse this fall, pair with frayed trousers and a graphic overcoat. But leave the bow untied. You don't want to look too tailored.
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How to Wear Pussybow Blouses #2
If your favorite summer dress comes with a scoop neck, layer a long-sleeve bow blouse underneath. You'll get at least two to three more months out of it.
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How to Wear Pussybow Blouses #3
Play up an exaggerated bow with a military-esque jacket and ankle trousers. It'll tone down the overtly feminine quality of the blouse in a snap.
Image: Imaxtree
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How to Wear Pussybow Blouses #4
When comfort is key, tuck your pussy-bow blouse into a pair of androgynous slacks and two-tone loafers. If the French can do it, so can you.
Image: Imaxtree
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How to Wear Pussybow Blouses #5
Mix and match a printed blouse with a midi skirt in the same pattern, but different colorway. To finish the look, grab a set of high heels in a third complementary shade. For more tips and tricks on how to mix patterns, click here.
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How to Wear Pussybow Blouses #6
A striped blouse, worn loose and open, will take the place of a workwear oxford any day. Wear with high-waisted trousers and lace-up sandals on casual Fridays.
Image: Imaxtree
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How to Wear Pussybow Blouses #7
Balance a hyper-feminine blouse with classic denim jeans, cuffed at the ankle, and your go-to black flats. A structured Thatcher-style handbag will bring your outfit together without going overboard.
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How to Wear Pussybow Blouses #8
Whenever you want to take an uptown staple downtown, grab two easy items: Jeans and a fur jacket. They'll transform just about anything.
Image: Imaxtree
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How to Wear Pussybow Blouses #9
Before Margaret Thatcher laid claim to the pussy-bow blouse in the 80s, women in the 70s were rocking it with paisley prints and high-waisted denim. To avoid looking like you're an extra in Boogie Nights, avoid retro accessories and throwback curls.
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How to Wear Pussybow Blouses #10
Take a page out of Gucci's playbook by styling a pussy-bow blouse with a vintage-print coat. It's nearly impossible to mess this one up.
Image: Imaxtree
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How to Wear Pussybow Blouses #11
For anyone who's still a little weary of being too girly, toughen up a black and white blouse with a leather jacket and distressed skinny jeans.
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How to Wear Pussybow Blouses #12
On the flip side, if you want to go all the way and never look back, we wouldn't blame you.
Image: Imaxtree
