The Adorable World of Bummies and Bows for Babies

The Adorable World of Bummies and Bows

There's nothing quite as precious as a baby dressed up in an adorable outfit complete with a big, beautiful bow. Bummies and bows have become a huge trend among parents wanting to make their little ones look extra cute. Not only are these bows and bandana bibs, also known as bummies, absolutely adorable, they also serve a functional purpose as well.

The Rise of Bummies

Bandana bibs, or bummies, have become a must-have accessory for babies these days. Unlike old-fashioned baby bibs designed just for mealtimes, bummies can be worn all day long. Babies tend to drool a lot, especially when they're teething. Bummies help catch all that excess drool and keep baby's clothing protected and dry.

Bummies come in a range of super cute prints and patterns, from polka dots to animals themes and more. Many are made from soft, absorbent cotton to gently soak up all that dribble. Some also have a plastic backing layer for extra protection. Bummies can be tied around baby's neck just like a traditional bib, but many people prefer to use them as a bandana style accessory.

Styling Tips for Bummies

There are so many creative ways to style bummies to make your baby's outfits even more adorable. Here are some fun ideas:

• Tie at the neck - Fold the bummy in half to make a triangle shape and tie around baby's neck. This looks cute with onesies or dresses.
• Headband - Tie the bummy around baby's head to keep hair back. Great for girls or baby boys with longer hair.
• Bows - Add a bummy to a hair bow for a perfect matching set.
• Arm wrap - Gently wrap around baby's arms to protect sleeves from drool.
• Leg wrap - Wrap around baby's thighs or calves for a bandana-style look.

Mix and match prints and patterns for a fun layered look. Bummies come in so many great colors and designs, it's easy to find ones that complement any baby outfit.

Big Bows for Little Girls

What's cuter than a baby girl with an enormous, oversized bow on her head? Big bows have become a must-have accessory for baby girls and toddlers. Not only are they totally adorable, they're also functional. Baby bows help keep hair neatly pulled back and out of the face.

Modern baby bows come in a range of materials, from grosgrain ribbon to fabrics like satin. Large floral organza bows are a popular choice, as are glittery bows for more formal occasions. Headbands with big bow attachments make for easy styling. Bows on crocheted headbands or head wraps also look very sweet.

When it comes to styling baby bows, go big or go home! While mini bows certainly look cute, oversized bows really make an outfit pop. Anchor the bow towards the top back of the head so it doesn't slip down over baby's eyes. For extra security, add a few bobby pins to keep it firmly in place.

Tips for Tying Perfect Bows

Getting that perfect bow every time takes a little bit of practice. Here are some tips for tying beautiful bows:

• Choose the right ribbon. Look for ribbon that isn't too stiff but also not super flimsy. Medium width grosgrain works well.
• Cut longer than you need. Cut your ribbon to be about 24" long for a medium bow. You can always trim it down.
• Create a loop. Make a teardrop shape with the two ends pinched together in the center.
• Fold into bow shape. Criss cross the loops and pinch together in the middle.
• Fluff and arrange. Gently pull the loops to create fullness and a symmetrical shape.

The length and width of your ribbon will impact the final size and proportion of your bows. Play around with different types of ribbon to get the perfect look.

Add Some Sparkle With Rhinestone Bows

Rhinestone bows add a touch of glamour and sparkle to any baby girl's wardrobe. The shimmery crystals catch the light beautifully and elevate simple hair accessories to feeling special occasion-worthy.

Look for bows with densely packed rhinestones that will withstand grabbing little hands. Sewn-on rhinestones tend to be more secure than glue-on options. Headbands with rhinestone bow attachments are a great choice for babies and toddlers. Metal rhinestone bow clips can also securely attach bows to fine hair.

When styling rhinestone bows, pair them with complementary outfits. Soft tulle dresses in pastel colors look gorgeous with a rhinestone bow. For holidays and special occasions, match the bow to the theme, like red and green sparkle bows for Christmas.

Mix and Match Bow Sets

For the ultimate in adorable coordination, shop for bow sets that include matching or mix-and-match options. Look for sets packaged together that include multiple colors and patterns that complement each other perfectly. This makes it easy to pull together a whole head-to-toe look.

Choose bow sets in the same color family, like varying shades of pink or blue. Florals, gingham, polka dots and animal prints also tend to pair up nicely. Sets with both hair bows and bummies allow you to accessorize baby from head to toe.

Having bows in pre-selected complementary shades and patterns takes the guesswork out of creating cute coordinated looks for your baby. Sets also make great gifts since they provide multiples bow options in one package.

Where to Shop for Bummies and Bows

You can find bummies and bows from lots of major retailers as well as small shops and handmade sellers. Here are some top picks for finding the cutest and best quality bows and bandana bibs:

• Etsy - Tons of handmade hair bows and bummies in unique designs
• Amazon - Affordable prices on bow sets and multi-packs of bummies
• Target - Trendy and classic bow styles at low prices
• H&M - Chic hair accessories and bandana bibs
• Zara - On-trend hair bows and headbands for baby
• Nordstrom - Higher end bows and bands from designer baby brands
• Carter's - Bows and bandanas made from soft baby fabrics
• Old Navy - Cute bow sets and multi-packs of printed bummies
• Baby boutiques - Unique, specialty bows, often handmade and custom

Check out your favorite baby brands and boutiques to build up an adorable collection of bows and bummies. You'll love mixing and matching them with all of baby's outfits for extra cuteness!

FAQs

How do I tie a bow in baby's hair securely?

Use plenty of bobby pins to anchor the bow firmly in place. Put pins in an X shape under the bow. You can also crisscross ribbons under the bow and tie them in a secure double knot at the nape of the neck. Headbands with bows attached are less likely to slip and easier to secure than standalone bows.

What age can baby start wearing bows?

Bows are safe for babies once they have full head control, usually around 3-4 months old. Look for soft bows without small embellishments that could come loose. Always supervise your baby while wearing bows.

How do I get drool stains out of bandana bibs?

Rinse or soak the bummies right away before stain sets. Wash with oxy-clean detergent or spot treat with spray before washing. Hang bibs to dry in sunlight which helps remove stains. Rub lemon juice on stubborn stains before washing.

Should bows match or complement the outfit?

Either way looks cute! Matching bows continue the outfit's color scheme. Complementary bows add contrast. Mix prints and patterns for more interest. Sets with coordinating bows and bummies make matching easy.

Are big bows safe for young babies?

Very large bows can be too heavy for newborns' developing neck muscles. Stick to smaller bows until baby is 3-4 months old. Pre-tied bows on stretchy headbands are ideal for younger babies as they fit securely.