Different Kinds of Belts And How to Style Them
Belts have been a part of our clothes for hundreds of years, serving several purposes, from keeping your pants up to making daring fashion statements. Choosing the right belt is crucial for every woman, from a casual cotton belt for a summer dress to a wide or skinny leather belt to cinch a long blazer dress.
Leather
Any outfit needs a timeless leather belt. It pairs well with any outfit, from smart tailoring to casual jeans and T-shirts, especially if it’s handmade leather belts. A leather belt can also be cinched to create a subtle corset effect. The simplest way to wear a leather belt is by pairing it with jeans and a crisp white shirt for a polished look. Alternatively, add a leather belt to tailored pants with a fitted blouse for a formal look. Skinny belts are a great option for those who want to add definition to their waist without overcrowding their silhouette. They are also easier to play with color and pattern than wide belts. Whether you opt for a metallic studded belt for a rock chick look or an animal print for a dramatic style, skinny belts are a stylish way to finish any outfit.
Suede
Belts are useful but may also add style and color to an ensemble. Often, belt colors match other elements in your look, such as shoes or a pocket square. It helps to create a seamless, put-together outfit. A leather belt will go well with most casual outfits. It can add some extra texture to a linen suit or keep your pants up while you’re playing a round of golf. A suede belt is less formal and is a great choice for a summertime look with vintage denim. It’s important to remember that while a belt should complement the shoe, it doesn’t need to match exactly. For example, wearing a black crocodile belt with black oxfords can be cool. However, wearing a belt with shoes the same color as the belt can make you look undone and amateurish. It’s usually better to choose a belt with a color close to the boots but different enough to look stylish.
D-ring
Despite falling into the casual belt category, D-ring belts aren’t your typical sportswear accessory. Crafted from nylon and other flexible fabrics, they’re designed for athletic wear—especially those requiring extra flexibility. Team one with jeans, chinos, or vintage denim to keep your pants in place while you run or head out to watch your favorite game with friends. Avoid wearing this style with any formalwear, however. The D-ring belt’s main difference from a regular leather belt is that it doesn’t use a buckle but two D-shaped metal rings instead. To wear a D-ring belt, slide your cotton webbing through the rings, then fold the cotton around them so it creates a loop and is secured with a triple-stitch.
Ribbon inlay
Whether belting up a sundress or cinching in a blazer, this classic accessory is the perfect way to add structure and shape to an outfit. Whether you’re more of a JLo or Beyonce body type, the right belt can create a flattering silhouette and accent your unique features. Depending on the setting, you may select from more laid-back leather belts for a formal function or more sophisticated cotton belts for days at the beach. Wide straps will accentuate most waistlines and are perfect for creating an hourglass figure. The most important thing to remember when wearing a belt is that it should be worn around the natural waist, not on the hips. Women should also be mindful of how they wear their belts; while men typically wear them counter-clockwise, women are more likely to wear them clockwise.
