Keep it up!

We all have at least one belt in our wardrobes. We love them, because they offer the best of both worlds: they are incredible functional (we can't go without them sometimes!), but they have also evolved into a hot fashion accessory. Here on Stylight, we've got belts in all kinds of shapes, styles and sizes. Go on, take a look!

A brief history of belts

As mentioned above, belts were strictly functional before they were ever considered to be fashionable. The ancient romans wore belts to have their coats fit more snugly, and also used it to stow weapons and other tools close at hand. In the middle Ages, monks started combining belts with their habits, and this is when belts gained a more aesthetic value. Not until after the renaissance, did belts become an accessory worn by women. Today both men and women wear belts in a range of different ways.

A belt as a basic

Belts are an important element in work wear, especially for men. It ensures that trousers fit more comfortably and snugly. We've become so used to men wearing belts with jeans and trousers, that an outfit almost feels incomplete without it!

A belt as a bonus

Sometimes we wear a belt for decorative purposes. This is more common amongst women. We combine it with dresses or coats, or wear it to improve the silhouette of a loose-fitting garment. When it comes to belts with exquisite buckles like the ones made by Just Cavalli, the belt can be the focal point of the outfit. Combine it with a simple black or white dress, and voila! You've got an instant outfit for the evening!

Belt it Out: All the Ways to Wear a Belt

Belts do more than cinching and holding. They bring definition and shape to the shapeless and slouchy. Just bought the perfect outfit? Belt it out, literally.

Count on your belts to be the accessories that set your wardrobe apart. Unleash all of your closet’s belted possibilities and check out the best ways to wear a belt:

Support System

Keep those jeans in place with a belt that will stand the test of time. Invest in a quality belt that fits. To find your size, purchase one that is a fit larger than your waist measurement. Once you’ve found it, stock up on belts in different tones and metals for optimal coordination.

Accessorize & Maximize

Wrap them around or stack them up, use belts to accessorize any look. Skinny belts in organic hues are great for making a statement that doesn’t steal the show. Use the traditional waist cinchers as the simplest way to add polish to your outfit. Rather than tucking your belt into its loop, contort the end into a bow for added flair.

Focal Point

Looking for an easy way to get all eyes on you? Look no further than an attention-stealing belt. Retire your statement necklace for a belt that pulls focus. Colored, studded or chained options are the obvious options, but search for a belt that encompasses one or more of these qualities.

Shape Shifter

Take a boxy silhouette from shapeless to shapley with a belt. Be it a dress, jacket or shirt, any garment can be revamped with the addition of a belt. Use a narrow and danity, or wide and firm one to give your look more form. Don’t be afraid to play with color for a bold or monochromatic look.

It’s the little things in life that make the biggest difference, and a great belt is no exception to that rule. Use it for its undying support or as a subtle–or not-so-subtle–way of drawing attention.

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