noun

furbelow

FUR-buh-loh/ˈfɜrbəˌloʊ/

An ornamental ruffle or other showy decoration.

A bright furbelow adds a playful touch to her skirt.

A plain dress is burdened with an extra showy ruffle sewn along the edge, making the decorative addition look unnecessary.

Etymology

The fold or pleat lies behind the original image of a puffed flounce or plaited border. This clothing decoration gives the word its broader sense of showy ornament or decorative extras.

In context

Amazing AudioBooks presenter4:42

spend twenty or thirty dollars for ribbons and furbelows,

[Full AudioBook] The Art Of Money Getting - 1880 - By P.T. Barnum

Computerphile presenter6:36

you could get a version with really no frills and furbelows [e.g.] no case.

'Accidental' CrossCompiler - Computerphile

More examples

Lace furbelows spill from the cuffs of his costume.
She removes the furbelow from the curtain for a simpler look.
The invitation is plain, without ribbons or other furbelows.

Forms

furbelow · furbelows

Similar words

ruffle: Specifically a gathered fabric strip, rather than any showy decoration.
frill: Usually a decorative fabric edge, sometimes an unnecessary extra.
ornament: Any decorative object or detail, not necessarily elaborate or showy.