This topic has been on my list for some time. Today I will tackle the controversial fashion topic of belts. When waistlines dropped and tops stayed untucked, many women put the belt aside. NOT me. I LOVE BELTS! 20 pounds lighter, I wore interesting, embellished belts with my jeans. Sometimes I tucked in the top and put on a jacket, other times I found one with a flat buckle, and wore the top out–just skimming over the belt. I usually layered a cami underneath that stayed tucked, outer top was out. If the top crept up, my belt showed. I still like this look, and you’ll see from the photos below that it is still in. Photos from Ann Taylor Loft.
Pants tend to slide down my hips; belts keep them in place. But…styles changed, tops got longer and my waistline got a little thicker…
I realized belts could now be worn with a longer top to add interest. My collection of belts increased dramatically. How to wear belts? Let me show you the ways:
For some body types and thicker waistlines, it is better to wear the belt a little lower. I actually like wearing the belt looser around the hips. This really gives the outfit an added dimension and interest. The belt becomes a focal point and jewelry can be more subdued. I often combine a belt with great earrings or a bracelet. If you carry your weight around the middle, and are well endowed, this looser, lower fit is great. Make sure you are smoothing any “inconsistencies” with the proper garment underneath. Then go ahead and put on a belt. Still self conscious about your middle? Add a jacket or loose fitting cardigan. It’s difficult to give the exact belt solution for every body type through a post. If I shopped with you in person, perhaps I would find the perfect combination or I might say…belts aren’t for you. The goal of this post is to get you to think about belts in another way. Below is a chain link belt that is worn loosely and adds to the outfit.
I have found wider belts with soft leather do the trick when covering what is known as the “muffin top”. I own this belt from Silpada and love it! It is a discontinued style and is also available in black. Get it while supplies last.
Another look from Silpada… modeled by Silpada consultant, Kristi Thomas. The belt really adds to her jeans and white tee. The same belt is also shown around the waist of a dress. Contact Kristi at kris_thomas@comast.net to order a Silpada belt. There are several others to choose from. Kristi loves the belts, and will guide you to the right one. Silpada is known for their jewelry, and in a few weeks we’ll be doing a Giveaway, but don’t forget about the belts!
Clothes from Accentuate Boutique.
If you carry your weight below the middle or just have a small waist, belts are your friend. Show off your smaller waist with all types of belts which will highlight the waist and take the eye away from the hips or other flaws. For more tips on belts, check out Angie’s at advice at You Look Fab. She addresses belting long waist/short waist as well as blending/contrasting the color of the belt with your outfit.
Here are a couple outfits I’ve put together with a skinny belt and chain belt. Belts can be found at many price points at almost every store. Don’t overlook this section of the Accessories Department. What do you think? Will you give belts a try?
Belts from Nordstrom Rack and Macy’s.
