Wearing a belt can make or break the look of outfit
Dos and don’ts when it comes to wearing one of fashion’s most underrated items
Belts. They are probably one of the most underrated fashion accessories out there.
Yet, according to fashion designer and stylist Themba Dlamini, a belt has the power to make or completely destroy an outfit.
“Belts can be worn for both practical reasons as well as making a strong fashion statement. Belts can also save an outfit from being too matronly, or even defining where one’s waist is, especially when wearing a dress with a lot of fabric.
“Knowing when one needs a belt is very crucial, for both men and women. For example, some women make the mistake of wearing a dress that does not require a belt and insist on putting it on, which ends up looking like a redundant thing you wish you could erase from the whole look.
“Others make the mistake of not wearing a belt then end up looking like their bodies go straight from the bosom to the legs, with no waist whatsoever. So, it is definitely important to know which outfits call for a belt and which ones do not,” he says.
Dlamini says the need for a belt differs distinctly between men and women.
For Men
“For most men, a belt is almost a must-have, as they would look sloppy without wearing it; for example when rocking a tuxedo.
“It is also important for men to know when to wear which belt as well though, as a formal leather belt would not work while wearing shorts.
“It also looks messy with jeans. So, the choice of outfit is also very important for men – as it is for women.”
Dlamini says these are the principles guiding women on how to choose a belt:
Definition
A good belt can distinguish your waist from the rest of your body.
Breaking up patterns
Sometimes, when wearing a busy pattern, a good belt will break up the busy, colourful print and give the eye a moment to take a breather.
Adding a finishing touch
Some outfits just beg for a belt. If you have ever seen an outfit that looks cute but taken to the next level with a belt, you will get it.
Practicality
Belts, at the very core, hold our pants up. A good belt can prevent you from mooning everyone when wearing skinny jeans or having to constantly pull your pants up.
Dlamini says there are different kinds of belts both men and women should be familiar with.
For Women The skinny belt
This belt works particularly well with light fabrics, like a cute summer dress or a light cardigan.
A skinny belt also completes the look of a skinny fit pencil skirt very well.
You usually place it at your waist, not hips, and it usually does not require any hoops to go through.
This belt can be used for definition and distinction of your waist, especially when wearing a dress or a cardigan.
Metallic skinny belts bring an extra sparkle to an otherwise dull outfit, so wear one for that extra kick.
Anybody’s shape can wear a skinny belt, but for voluptuous and plus-sized body types, make extra sure that the belt is the right size as it can look like one is being suffocated with an electric cord if it is too small.
Not cute with:
Jeans. It just looks sloppy and redundant.
The medium-width belt
This is the belt you can rock with jeans and formal pants. It is usually put through the belt hoops for maximum support.
It is important to choose muted colours as opposed to bright and colourful ones, unless the outfit is properly coordinated. Rather stick to black, brown and burgundy belts.
Not cute with:
Dresses. It is not practical and looks forced.
The wide belt
This belt gives maximum definition and goes a long way in defining a woman’s voluptuous body. A wide belt can also synch you in if you are wearing a dress that might expose your tummy area, if that is an area you are not comfortable showing off.
It also breaks up a busy pattern, and goes well over heavy fabrics like wool. Go for a leather belt for an extra fashion forward moment.
Not cute with:
Pants, shorts or light fabric. Wearing light fabric with a wide belt makes you look like a stuffed sausage, and gives the impression that you cannot breathe. Also, women with a big bust should be careful of the placement of the wide belt, as, if it is too high up, it hikes the bosom up and looks completely uncomfortable.
For men there aren’t too many principles to follow, except for these:
● For formal occasions, where a tuxedo or suit is required, always wear a medium-width belt in black, brown or cognac.
Be careful of the colour wheel when choosing which colour belt to wear with which suit, as some colours can clash.
For example, black formal pants require one to wear a black belt. Other colour suits like navy, burgundy or blue work well with brown belts.
● Always match the colour of your belt to your shoes. The mismatch is not cute.
● Wear shorts with a fabric belt as opposed to leather. These can also have fun colourful prints that would go well with the relaxed feel.
● Try not to go over the top with oversized or diamante buckles. It looks cheap and juvenile.