Fashion Belt Styles

Belts, based originally upon necessity, have been a common fashion staple for centuries now. However, more recently the belt has become a fashion accessory, in addition to serving its initial purpose of holding up trousers. The perfect addition to both a simple and classy ensemble or a wild, unconventional outfit, fashion belts are affordable options for creating variation in your everyday wardrobe. (Check out your local Goodwill or Salvation Army for a discount-priced selection of belt styles). Just as there are a variety of belt styles, there are also a set variety of outfits with which each of these belt styles can best be paired.

Thin belts are the perfect addition to a simple, classy outfit. Not overly bold, these subtle additions to vintage inspired ensembles create a firmer element to often otherwise soft, extremely feminine outfits. Try wearing a thin belt with a classy, shorter than knee length dress. In order to not cut the visual lines of your outfit at a place that could make you appear shorter and stockier (i.e. at your hips), cinch the belt up higher on your torso, creating a high-waisted appearance to your dress. Thin belts can also be paired well with longer cardigans or loose button down shirts. Again, just remember to cinch these belts so that they appear as high-wasted and do not fall right on your hip line.

Chunky belts are great for adding a bold statement to any otherwise simple outfit. Best paired with solid colored outfits, chunky/wide belts offer a fun dimension to calm outfits. These belts also generally look best when worn higher than the hip area; a chunky belt cinched to create a high waisted blouse/dress can also be used to enhance your figure if desired. Cloth versions of these chunky/wide belts are often more comfortable than the harder leather options, but either material will usually be equally functional for these styles.

Finally, cloth belts/sashes are wonderfully versatile investments for any wardrobe. Solid colored cloth belts look great with patterned shirts or dresses, and printed/patterned belts will be a great addition to a solid colored blouse or cardigan. Unlike the afore mentioned belt styles, cloth belts can be tied closer to hip level and still create a flattering style for the figure of the wearer. When investing in a small collection of versatile cloth belts, be sure to first check out your own wardrobe for already-owned options; skinny ties, scraps of fabric, and long hair ribbons all make great cloth belt options.