THE BIG, FAT BELT
Be it a thick, buckled one in a bold colour or a leather belt embellished with chains — make sure you belt it right this season
It’s true what they say, that fashion is cyclic in nature. How many times have we observed that the clothes that our mothers or aunts have worn in their youth have now made runway appearance, albeit with a few tweaks here and there? One such trend that has made a major comeback, in not only international runways, but also in the closets of BTowners and fashionistas, is that of big belts.
Fashion designer Shruti Sancheti agrees, she says, “Fashion is cyclical and the ’80s are back with a bang and all the elements – be it neon colours, padded shoulders or big buckles and broad belts are back in trend, albeit in a new avatar. Big belts have been a part of many cultures in South East Asia and have influenced many designers.”
FAVOURED AS AN ACCESSORY
These belts are more often used as an accessory than a utilitarian product. Designer Nanki Papneja, founder at Limerick, says, “Belts have been one of the most statement-making accessories this season. One can pair them with a boxy shirt dress or a basic shirt to take it from day to night with ease.”
Nelson Jaffery, head of design, LIVA Birla Cellulose agrees that “belts are a versatile accessory”. “Beyond the practicality of customising the waist size of a garment; they also help in adding a bit of flair and structure to an outfit. Another great way of adding the look of a belt to your outfit is by sporting a fanny pack”
Designer Ridhi Mehra adds, “Another wardrobe essential is the leather brown belt, which is the perfect way to break up a white T-shirt over white jeans.”
BELT IT RIGHT
Fashion designer Arpita Mehta feels that big belts are a trend that does not fit everyone.
However, she says, “if someone would like to wear them, they should be smart about the colour and texture.” “If it’s a small petite body type where the belt would look big, I would recommend a bold big buckle belt, so that it stands out. If a bigger person is wearing it, one must choose a tone on tone belt so that it blends in. Colours such as tan, black and grey along with subtle pastels could be great options. Big buckle belts look best with skirt dresses or super-simplified long cotton dresses,” she adds. Highlighting the don’ts when accessorising belts, Shirin Salwan, editor-in-chief, The Magazine by Pernia’s PopUp Shop, says, “Make sure you don’t wear them too high or they can accentuate your bust excessively and give it a very dated look. My favourite trend is throwing an oversized leather belt over a boyfriend blazer with fitted blue jeans and pairing it with stilettos and a classic leather handbag to complete the look. You can wear it to the office or an evening out without looking overdressed. Also, it can be used to break a monotonous outfit and give some definition around the waist.” Vedika Merh advises on the colour palate for belts, she says, “Opt for solid colours and printed belts with pleated, twisted or embroidered textures to amp up your look.” If you don’t want to opt for the usual earthy tones and want to get your quirk on, fashion designer Rahul Mishra believes that this season is for bright hues and happy tones. He says, “Maximalist, rich and intricate surfaces seem to be the thing in belts.”
GOING THE TRADITIONAL ROUTE
Fashion is not something that can, or rather, should be compartmentalised. Who says belts can’t be styled with saris, designer Nanki elaborates, “Embroidered belts have also made their way to traditional wear and have been there for a while. They can be paired with saris, anarkalis and can even be used to hold the dupatta in place over a lehenga.”
Embroidered belts have also made their way to traditional wear and have been there for a while. They can be paired with saris or anarkalis.
NANKI PAPNEJA FASHION DESIGNER