Why Do Women’s Underwear Have That Tiny Bow on the Front? That little bow isn’t just decoration! One practical explanation is that it helps women identify the front of their underwear by touch, especially when getting dressed in a dark room. Historically, ribbons were used to secure underwear before elastic waistbands became common, and tying them at the front was convenient. Although modern underwear no longer needs those ribbons, the bow has remained as a charming design detail and a small reminder of the past…