Belts obviously never really go out of style because they’re functional. But depending on the fashion era (and outfit) they can be the focal point, or just the average hold-up-your pants accessory. In 2024, belts are definitely making a statement; adding aesthetic value and elevating outfits. Here’s what to buy, and how to wear your belts this year…
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Are Wide Or Skinny Belts In Style In 2024?
The short answer is both! This year, you’ll see skinny belts, including chain belts, as well as wide belts including shaped corset belts. You’ll find belts in leather, faux leather, braided leather, croc effect leather. Animal prints and embellished belts are also in style.
The newest trend that I’m seeing in 2024 is low-slung, statement belts like this one. These are easiest to wear over knit dresses but I’m seeing them worn with pull-on skirts or pants.
What Style Of Belt Buckles Are Trending In 2024?
This year, you’ll find all shapes of buckles in both silver and gold. Choose from round, oval, rectangle, Western style or even beautiful scroll shapes like this one. You’ll also see a few wrap belts with no buckle like this braided wrap belt.
How To Wear Wide Belts
A wide belt can add interest to a monochromatic outfit or create an hourglass shape where there isn’t one. My sweater dress has a slightly loose fit, so my wide suede belt not only adds color but shape too.
If you have a round belly that you want to minimize, wearing a wide belt slightly lower on your waist can help. Also choose darker colored belts as dark colors tend to minimize while light colors tend to make something look bigger.
For the illusion of longer legs, wear a wide belt in the same color as your pants or skirt. I also bought this black wide belt as I often wear black bottoms. If you are short-waisted, try matching your belt color to your top.
How To Wear Studded Belts And Grommet Belts
In 2024, you’ll also see plenty of belts with grommets or studs. This black and silver eyelet belt is designed to be worn at the hips, while this one can be worn with high waist jeans.
Want something that really stands out? How about this gold grommet belt? This one works as a decorative accent over a dress or as a functional accessory over pants.
How To Wear Belts With Chain Details
Chain belts worn around the waist or hips will are a fun way to accessorize with a metallic accent. If you’re looking for one that can be worn through belt loops take a look at this single-chain belt.
My leather/chain belt isn’t currently available, but there are plenty of options in stores and online for leather belts with chain accents. This one is mostly leather with a gold curb-chain detail and this one has a chain buckle.
How Figure Out Your Belt Size
Figuring out which size to buy can be a little tricky, especially when you are shopping online. And yes, it does mean you have to measure your waist and hips!
I tried on quite a few belts from Banana Republic recently, and found that even though they were all from one brand, I ended up with sizes XS, S, and M depending on the belt style. So, if you are buying online, take a look at the size guide but also be prepared to try a few sizes.
The ideal minimum measurement use to be middle hole to buckle your belt, and have enough of a strap to fit under the belt loop if there is one. But you can also wear a longer skinny belt (make sure it’s a soft leather) with the ends looped over the belt and left hanging down.
What If You Have An Apple-Shaped Body?
If you have an apple-shaped body (you have a larger bust and waist, and narrow hips and thin legs)? I know many women try to disguise weight around their middle by wearing oversized, loose tops and skipping the belt.
If you want to balance out your shape, or create the illusion of a smaller waist, consider a dark colored belt. Wear it higher on your waist, with wide leg pants or a flowing skirt. Avoid light colors that land at your widest area as lighter colors ten to make an area appear bigger.
My leather/chain belt isn’t currently available, but there are plenty of options in stores and online for leather belts with chain accents. This one is mostly leather with a gold curb-chain detail and this one has a chain buckle.
How Figure Out Your Belt Size
Figuring out which size to buy can be a little tricky, especially when you are shopping online. And yes, it does mean you have to measure your waist and hips!
I tried on quite a few belts from Banana Republic recently, and found that even though they were all from one brand, I ended up with sizes XS, S, and M depending on the belt style. So, if you are buying online, take a look at the size guide but also be prepared to try a few sizes.
The ideal minimum measurement use to be middle hole to buckle your belt, and have enough of a strap to fit under the belt loop if there is one. But you can also wear a longer skinny belt (make sure it’s a soft leather) with the ends looped over the belt and left hanging down.
What If You Have An Apple-Shaped Body?
If you have an apple-shaped body (you have a larger bust and waist, and narrow hips and thin legs)? I know many women try to disguise weight around their middle by wearing oversized, loose tops and skipping the belt.
If you want to balance out your shape, or create the illusion of a smaller waist, consider a dark colored belt. Wear it higher on your waist, with wide leg pants or a flowing skirt. Avoid light colors that land at your widest area as lighter colors ten to make an area appear bigger.
Try wearing a jacket or cardigan over your belted outfit, to break up that horizontal line created by your belt. Match your belt to your clothing rather than choosing high contrast colors.
Play with different belt widths and placement, until you find a few that you find flattering. Let me know in the comments below, your favorite belt styles this year.
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