Belts are one of the easiest ways to accessorize and add polish to your outfits, but somewhere along the way they got saddled with a reputation for being clunky and boring. There are so many options for belts today that there is no reason for your belt loops to be empty. And pretty soon you might even be looking for excuses to wear belts with things that don't have loops!
the three essential belts
 J. Crew Patent Leather Square Buckle Belt $29.50 A black belt is an essential piece of every wardrobe. Since this is a staple for work, I prefer a width of 3/4"-1". That is wide enough to be professional, but is still fresh and modern. |  Banana Republic Bow Skinny Belt in Red $39.50 Every closet needs at least one colored belt and red won't go out of style. Paired with black it is an easy statement piece that is chic and sophisticated. |  White House Black Market Silver/Gold Reversible Skinny Belt $38 The metallic belt is a trend that never seems to go away. This is because a little sparkle can make a big impact on an outfit. Wear over your favorite LBD to accentuate your waist, with your jeans to add some polish or with any outfit that just needs some extra pop. |
the (not boring) work belt
Ann Taylor Patent Skinny Belt in City Taupe $29.99 The key to a great work belt is to keep it simple. At the office you do not want your belt to be the focus of your outfit so keep the colors neutral (but not always black or brown). Make sure that your belt is not too wide for your belt loops--a good rule of thumb is between 3/4" and 1" wide to give some little breathing room within your loops. Look for patent or lightly textured leather belts that will be more distinctive against a trouser than a plain matte leather belt and don't be afraid to wear a contrast color--black belt with grey pants, oxblood with taupe, etc.
 Cole Haan Enamel Dressy Belt in Ironstone Patent $48 |  Banana Republic Exotic Skinny Belt in Oxblood $39.50 |  Ann Taylor Exotic Leather Skinny Belt $38 |
the trendy belt
LOFT Enamel Bow Belt $29.50 The most important thing about choosing a trendy belt is that you like it and feel confident wearing it. Unlike the work belt, the trendy belt is a statement piece and will set the tone for your outfit. You might only be wearing jeans and sweater, but if you add a bright pink patent belt, you are not just adding color, you are adding your personality. To get the most use out of your trendy belt, make sure that the size you buy fits you around your waist (to wear with dresses) as well as through your belt loops.
 Lands' End Patent Belt in Rich Raspberry $34 |  Ann Taylor Zebra Print Skinny Belt $48 |  LOFT Metallic Inlay Belt in Fresh Coral $29.50 |
RSS Feed
