Belt It: Look Thinner and Extend Your Summer Wardrobe With the Right Belt

Sylvie  Branch

When worn correctly, a belt can really spice up a summer outfit. Which means you can save money on new summer duds by changing the look of the same old sundresses and ensembles. Want to look taller, curvier, thinner? A belt is an important fashion tool. A plain Jane dress can be transformed with the addition of a belt.

Look taller
Strangely enough, the right belt can make a petite girl look taller. Skinny belts that cinch in a loose-fitting top adds dimension and creates the illusion of height. In the same way a corset, or other wide belt worn high can visually extend the length of your legs by emphasizing your bust. An Obi belt is perfect for this affect. This Japanese-influenced accessory appears to be two belts, a wide belt layered with a skinny belt. It can tie in the front or back, and is typically worn under the bust. Looks especially nice with dresses, form-fitting tops and high-waisted skirts.

Look curvier
Tall and slim girls may want to add some curves with a statement belt, worn low around the hips. Hourglass-shaped ladies can accentuate curves by wearing a medium-width belt at the thinnest part of your waistline. Steer clear of wide belts that can make you appear bulky instead of the sleek, sexy look you are aiming towards. An elastic belt is perfect since it expands and contrasts according to your body. This comfortable choice emphasizes your waist line without unnecessary constriction. But if you want to avoid bulges, choose a decorative sash. Made from softer fabric, a long scarf can cinch in a summer dress, creating curves while keeping the warm weather vibe.

Look thinner

Placement is everything. If you carry weight in your midsection, place a belt above the natural waistline, but if you are top-heavy, place a belt a little under. Coordinate the color to blend into your outfit rather than contrast to help cinch the clothing without drawing undue attention. On the other hand, a belt with a crystal buckle draws attention up and away from any problem area. According to Women's World magazine, this tip highlights the center point of your body, instantly trimming your shape. The July issue encourages women who want the appearance of thinner hips and thighs to wear a belt with a sparkly crystal belt buckle.

Look pulled together
Belts can define an outfit and create something new out of unrelated pieces. For example, wrapping a tough leather belt around a cocktail dress can take the outfit from evening wear to edgy daywear in a heartbeat. Add a pair of comfortable shoes and a scarf in your hair and that dress can be see the light of day. Revamping your look is a great way to look pulled together. Infusing your personal style into your wardrobe amps up your fashion quotient. Try a slinky chain belt over a tailored look for a touch of something special. Place it through belt loops, or wrap it around your hips. Chain belts look like a bit like jewelry, for this reason refrain from adding long necklaces, instead slip on earrings and a bracelet.

Resource:
Women's World

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Published by Sylvie Branch - Featured Contributor in Lifestyle

Creative professional with a triple whammy of job titles; freelance writer, artist, educator. Sylvie was a Rising Star for Y!CN in 2009, was part of the Top 1000 in 2010 and won the Lifestyle award in 2011....  View profile

2 Comments

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  • ShawnTe Pierce7/22/2011

    I love belts! They can update the look of your older clothes and emphasize or minimize certain areas of the body if worn the right way. You don't have to always wear one at the waist or hips either!

  • Walton S. Tissot7/15/2011

    *****

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