Ever noticed the tiny bow on the front of women’s underwear and wondered, “Why is that even there?” You’re not alone! What may seem like a cute design choice actually has a long, surprising history that few would expect.

Wherever you are in the world, chances are you’ll have a pair of women’s underwear in your drawer with a small bow sewn to the waistband in the front. Though it’s a common feature across many brands, most people don’t give it much thought. However, some curious internet users have started to wonder about this little detail, trying to uncover the origins of the bow on women’s underwear.