Buckle Up: Three Ways to Wear a Belt and Look Beauteous

From the young and hip to the mid-lifers everyone is going bananas for belts. Why? Not only do they slim the waistline and supply the much-needed job of supporting your pants, they pull entire outfits together. A red belt takes that black-trousers-white-button-down outfit from caterer to chic.

But to belt beginners across the nation, it isn’t really so simple. Putting a loud leather belt more than a demure lacy top seems almost sinful. And then you have the problem with the buckle — big and flashy? Petite and discreet? And if you wear a Texas-sized belt buckle do you have to alter your walk? Does a large belt buckle demand a strut?

Relax. There is no wrong approach to wear a belt. There are some less right approaches to wear one. Like belt plus tutu plus ten-gallon cowboy hat. Unless you’re Lady Gaga, we suggest you start with basic principles.

Here are three basic ways to wear a belt:

Over Layers

It’s one of the freshest fashion trends today. A boyfriend cardigan layered over an embroidered t-shirt. A narrow, braided belt cinched in the waist, within the sweater.

Why it works: It accentuates the waistline which can become hidden under multiple layers. It elongates the frame and dresses up comfy weekend wear. The right belt helps make the the most straightforward ensemble a showstopper.

With a Shirt Dress

A shapeless shirt dress alone is like a bike without wheels. But a belt brings it from just-woke-up-wear to flirty and fun. Whether it’s plaid, printed, or maybe plain, the only strategy to wear a shirtdress is combined with a belt.

Why it functions: Cinching the waistline of your shirtdress creates the illusion of an hourglass figure. And it’s adorable.

Long Blouse and Leggings

If you aren’t daring enough to test a shirt dress, think about a billowy top and denim leggings. Add a patent belt on the blouse, Bamboo Jeans slip on some sparkly flats and you’ve got the optimal day-to-evening outfit.

Why it functions: A button down and leggings might be too casual for your work day. But alas the belt! It slims and shines. This outfit gets the retro style you crave, but it is both sophisticated and office-appropriate. You’re ready to hit the boardroom or happy hour in fashion.

What have you been looking forward to? Buckle up and obtain started. You’re a belt wearer now!