HOW TO FIND THE RIGHT BELT
FOR YOUR SHAPE
Written by Lara Myall, contributing fashion and beauty director
The beauty of belts
It’s one of the oldest tricks in the shape styling bible - belt up to slim down. However not every belt suits all. Here’s our guide to choosing a statement belt that works for you.
Bands of embellishment
This season Burberry Prorsum put the sparkle into summer with bejewelled rosette belts. Worn high on the waist over form-fitting dresses and dust coats, these gem-encrusted bands lifted our gaze and showcased the tiniest part of the body. Think wedding bling on pretty pastel ensembles for a dazzling way to nip in apple shapes, straight up and downers or athletic frames. Pear shapes can still indulge if worn over a full ’50s-inspired skirt or dress. And long torsos can wear this beauty with a boxy top and column skirt to divide and define, breaking up the length and balancing out proportions.
Big buckles
The oversized statement belt is back, from super sized ancient coins at Dolce & Gabbana to sleek square designs at Michael Kors. So if in doubt, blow it up! However these tricky types come with a wearability warning, since the focus is often on the centre of the belt which can create one of two things - instant curves or extra bulge. This style will bring attention to the middle of your waist, seemingly shrinking each side of the body. However, if you’re an apple shape and carry most of your weight around the tummy area, this belt will add inches where you’d rather lose them.
Wide and proud
Thick boxer belts act like corsetry if you’re long and lean or a little round around the edges. Invest in elasticated and plaited belts that gently pull you in rather than follow the contours of your body. Busty girls and pear shapes should avoid this style, mainly because your bust may rest on the top of the belt, while the bottom edge will sit on your hips. Look to skinnier belts to showcase your assets whilst creating a wow waist and an hourglass silhouette.
Hail the Obi belt
Apple shapes and block builds can cheat a waist with the Obi belt. This is a wide, wraparound sash that ties at the front, inspired by traditional Japanese attire. Now this long piece of fabric or leather creates both a smaller, defined waistline and the illusion of hips. Remember to wear shapewear beneath your clothes to smooth out and suck in any extra flesh. Then opt for a dark colour or match to your outfit for a slimming result. Wear with structured dresses, column skirts or ethereal kimonos for dramatic, instant curves.
See Also
Why we love Kylie
Nail art
Blogger of the week: Lily Melrose
Halo braid
The beauty of belts
Loom band craze