 |
| Fashionworld |
On a recent trip to the Roman ruins of Pompeii, I discovered that collars and belts were worn by slaves as a mark of ownership. The quality of the slaves' clothing varied depending on the status and wealth of their owners.
Thankfully, belts are not used for the same purpose anymore but they are definitely a desirable and outfit enhancing accessory that most women should aim to have in their wardrobe. A simple belt can totally transform an outfit and if you pick one in a colour or print that's on trend, it can give you an instant update without having to buy a new outfit. Cinching a belt on a floaty dress or over a suit can create a sleek and flattering silhouette and wearing one over a slouchy tee makes it a little more dressy. Added to a bulky sweater it makes for a more streamline look.
 |
| New Look |
Defining the waist is very much on trend for A/W 17 and that's good news for me because I
love wearing belts and have a range of different styles and colours. Many women, however, lack confidence in wearing belts and I am often asked "should I wear a belt" or "what type of belt should I wear?" Firstly, I would advise that if you have a definite waist then yes you should wear belts. If you don't have a defined waist, then they are a few guidelines to remember:
 |
| Topshop |
- Experiment with belt styles and placement and ask yourself (or a trusted friend) whether it adds or detracts to your silhouette or outfit.
- If you have a full bust, protruding tummy or wide hips then stick to narrow belts, fastened loosely. Choose belt colours that are the same colour as your outfit and avoid any shiny or bejewelled styles.
 |
| Jigsaw |
- A narrow sash belt that sits on the waist, with the ends left loose to create a vertical line, could flatter wide hips, a protruding tummy and short legs.
- The OBI belt could be flattering for short legs and long waists but not for rounder tums or wide shoulders.
 |
| OBI by Hobbs |
- If you have dominant shoulders, full bust or short waist, a narrow sash belt that sits on the hips would be a good choice.
- A wide waist belt will work for long waists but not for short waists, full busted figures or those with a rounded tummy.
 |
| Debenhams |
- Short waists will benefit from a contoured belt that drops away at the centre but will not be flattered by one that points upwards. If you are long waisted this works the opposite way around. If you have a short waist, match the colour of the belt to your trousers or skirt. Again the opposite works if you are long waisted, select a belt in contrast to your outfit.
 |
New Look
|
- A note to petites (that's me included) don't let people tell you that you shouldn't wear belts or only wear self fabric belts to create a continuous line. The positive addition of wearing a belt far outweighs any negative effect. Follow the tips above and find out what suits you best.
- I dislike plastic belts even when they come attached to an outfit.
Hail, the belt!
photos: www.prshots,com
