How to Tie a Perfect Sash Bow on a Dress

8 easy steps to tying a bow for any occasion

Co-authored by Rhonda Hale and Annabelle Reyes

Last Updated: November 14, 2023 Fact Checked

Whether you need a beautiful bow for a special event, such as a flower girl dress, first communion, holiday party, or even an everyday look, we’ve got you covered! Keep reading for simple step-by-step instructions on how to tie the perfect sash bow on any dress.

1

Make the sash length equal on each side.

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Adjust the sash and pull it around the waist of the dress until you have an equal length of ribbon to work with on both sides.^{[1]
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- If the dress comes with the sash already attached, it will likely already be equal.

2

Cross one side over the other side.

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Bring the left side (side A) of the sash over the right side (side B).^{[2]
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Research source} The two lengths of the sash should be crossed over each other like an “X.”^{[3]
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3

Make a basic knot.

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Insert side A underneath side B and pull to tighten.^{[4]
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Research source} Make sure the sash is comfortable and is the desired tightness for the person wearing the dress.

4

Make a loop with side B.

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Take the length of side B and form a loop.^{[5]
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Research source} Make it the size you want your bow to be.^{[6]
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5

Wrap side A around side B.

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Bring side A around the loop you’ve made with side B, just as you would with shoelaces.^{[7]
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6

Pull side A through the small opening.

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Feed side A through the small opening between the loop and the original knot, like you would when tying shoelaces.^{[8]
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7

Make your second loop.

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Keep pulling side A through the opening until it forms a loop.^{[9]
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Research source} Pull until the loop is the same size as the loop on the other side.