Of The Moment: Fit To Be Tied

Take a bow: Tie-neck runway looks from (L to R) Karen Walker, Proenza Schouler, Bill Blass, Thakoon, and Doo.Ri. Click for full size.

If the proliferation of tie-neck blouses on the runway are any indication, designers are celebrating something of a return to femininity this fall. The look is ladylike, but far from girly -- this is about sophisticated, chic womanliness, demure on the outside, but tough and sexy underneath.

I love these blouses because they're basically instant old-school glamour: throw one on, tie that bow, and your look is instantly pulled together. (You can also search for tops with major ruffles at the neck for a similar look without all that exhausting work of tying a bow.) Here are a dozen modestly priced options:

Click for full size.

Top row, L to R:
"Landra" abstract knit tunic, $19.80, Forever 21.
"Blooming" floral blouse, $17.80, Forever 21.
Pleated bow tie top, $19.99, Charlotte Russe.
"Sheer Business" top, $49.99, ModCloth.

Center row, L to R:
Shirred star-print top, $21.99, GoJane.
Ruffled floral top, $15.80, Forever 21.
Floral-print bow-tie top, $10, Old Navy.
"Caylin" sheer silk top, $29.80. Forever 21.

Bottom row, L to R:
"Safari" chiffon top, $17.80, Forever 21.
"Monochrome" blouse, $27.99, ModCloth.
Check chiffon tie blouse, £28 ($51), Topshop.
"Blossom" chiffon top, $17.80, Forever 21.

I'd style these ladylike blouses with anything high-waisted (they look equally fabulous tucked into skinny or wide-legged jeans, or with a curve-hugging pencil skirt) and edgy accessories to add a little rock 'n roll -- sutdded platform heels, heavy metal jewelry, dark Gothy fingernail polish, and opaque tights in bright contrasting shades.

Another thing to try if you like this look: consider biting Thakoon's style by hitting up a fabric store. Pick out swaths of fabric in prints you like (lightweight chiffon and silky materials will fall best) and use it to tie bows around the necks of shirts you already own. Cheap, unique, and fabulous.