Belts
I've spotted quite a few new belts in the shops this week, so I wanted to share some I’ve found—because let’s be honest, finding affordable, stylish belts isn’t always easy!
One of the biggest challenges with belts is that they serve two distinct purposes, and depending on how you wear them, you’ll likely need different lengths and widths:
Waist Belts – For Dresses & Shape-Defining
A waist belt is perfect for defining the waist on dresses, giving structure to looser fits, and enhancing your silhouette.
But beyond definition, a belt can also adjust your waistline:
If a dress has a waist seam that sits too high, you can place a belt slightly lower to visually reposition the waist at a more flattering point.
If a dress already has string belt loops, feel free to snip them off so the belt can sit naturally where it suits your body best. These string loops are often placed too high and they are normally only added to dresses so the belt doesn’t get lost.
Swapping out the original dress belt for a structured leather belt or statement buckle can instantly elevate and add interest to an outfit.
Colour Tip:
✔ A belt in a similar tone to the dress creates a seamless, elongated effect.
✔ A contrasting belt defines the waist and draws attention—great for adding a statement.
Width Matters:
Thin belts (under 1 inch) work best on petite frames or for subtle definition.
Medium-width belts (1-2 inches) are the most versatile, providing structure without overwhelming the look.
Wide belts (2+ inches) make a bold statement but work best with fitted or structured dresses to avoid bulkiness.
Jeans & Trouser Belts – For a Polished Finish
A belt worn through jeans or trouser loops isn’t just functional—it completes an outfit and makes it look more intentional. If your jeans tend to gap at the back, a belt can help cinch the waist for a better fit. However, if this happens often, consider jeans with a contoured waistband, which are designed to hug the waist better.
When choosing a belt, colour plays a key role, and your choice can depend on your body shape and styling goals:
✔ Bright or contrasting belts create a break between your top and bottom half. This is great if you have a more balanced (hourglass) or triangle shape and want to define the waist. However, if you have a short torso, a high-contrast belt can visually cut your frame in half, making you appear shorter—so in that case, a lower-contrast option might work better.
✔ Neutral or subtle belts blend into your outfit, keeping the look streamlined and elongating your silhouette. This works well for petite frames, long torsos, or anyone wanting to create a lengthening effect.
✔ Want longer legs? Matching your belt to your jeans (e.g., a dark blue belt with dark denim) creates a seamless, elongated look, making your legs appear longer.
✔ Matching your belt to your top can help create a cohesive, top-heavy look—this can be useful for someone with a triangle shape, as it subtly draws the eye upward (though not always practical to have multiple coloured belts)
💡Remember you don’t have to match your belt to your shoes or bag - this is quite an old fashioned styling rule!
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Types of Belts to Consider Adding to Your Wardrobe
A Neutral Belt – A classic black, brown, or tan belt will always work hard in your wardrobe. Opt for a matte or textured leather finish for a modern feel.
A Belt in a Colour You Wear Often – If you frequently wear navy, burgundy, or forest green, a belt in that shade blends seamlessly into your wardrobe.
An Animal Print Belt – A subtle leopard, croc, or snakeskin belt acts as a neutral with personality, adding texture and depth to simple outfits.
A Metallic Belt – Gold, silver, or bronze belts are not just for evening wear—they can elevate denim, knitwear, or tailored trousers, adding a modern touch.
A Blue Belt – If you wear jeans often, a denim-toned belt blends effortlessly, especially with a monochrome denim look (e.g., blue jeans + blue belt).
Of course you don’t have to add all of these into your wardrobe, it’s just useful