Why do women's underwear have a bow on them?

Have you ever noticed how women's underwear includes a front-facing ribbon bow? We're here to explain why.

Cotton, silk, and lace are some fabrics used in many styles of women's underwear. But, if you've ever purchased one, you've likely noticed that most of them have that common little bow. Now that we have pointed it out, you will see it too.

Panties in an elastic bunch

A curious observer took to Reddit and asked away her qualm, by posing the question:

Why do so many panties have that little bow on the centre front? Where did the tradition come from?

One replied, narrating the accurate history:

It comes from pre-elastic days, when your underthings were held in place by a bit of ribbon threaded through the eyelet lace at the tops.

The little bow is where you tied that ribbon, and of course it’s in the front because that’s the easiest place to do something like that.

Another user quipped:

As a bonus, it makes it easier to dress in the dark.

These days it’s definitely for aesthetic purposes, but traditionally it was essential in holding the panties together.

Even though, it is the centre point of the elastic, some people usually prefer to snip it.

Another user said:

I always found them a bit stupid but I learned to ignore them. It‘s interesting to know why they were there to begin with.

Bonus feature in women’s underwear!

Curious to know another common fact about women’s underpants? They usually have a tiny pocket.

But, more than a pocket, it is actually a protective layer called a gusset. It isn’t a pocket to store any essentials, rather it is an important element of intimate hygiene.

The gusset helps prevent bacteria to develop fast and also against skin chaffing, from clothing. Wearing breathable underwear keeps you dry and friction-free, preventing yeast infections and other skin irritations.