Tie This On for Size

By Isabel C. Gonzalez

Just in time for the holidays comes a fashion trend that can double as gift wrap: satin ribbons. Ultrafeminine sashes, already considered hip by 4-year-old girls, are becoming must-haves for women 10 times that age. Tom Ford for Yves Saint Laurent Rive Gauche, Dolce & Gabbana and Prada are among the fashion powers touting the look in recent collections, tying ribbons onto blouses, dresses and shoes. Popular downmarket retailer Hennes & Mauritz (H&M) and other mainstream mall outlets have also appropriated the ribbon theme for everything from belts to tank tops. Whether tying them in bows or leaving them to dangle like streamers, designers use these broad bands in every color--including, of course, basic black. "Details like ribbons make women feel playful and young," says Amy Tan, a fashion stylist and clothing designer whose line, Amy Tangerine, which can be found at boutiques such as Fred Segal in Los Angeles, features T shirts woven with satin ribbons. "Looking and feeling feminine--being girly--is really in." Elly May Clampett, the bow-bedecked daughter on The Beverly Hillbillies, would feel right at home. --By Isabel C. Gonzalez