Manipulation. In relationships, it’s never a good thing. (OK, never say never, but it’s almost always a bad thing!) In fashion, though, a little manipulation can go a long way. The easiest and best way to manipulate any outfit is to experiment with a statement belt. It doesn’t matter whether you start with a dress, a jumpsuit or separates, you can completely change up the dimensions and transform your look in an instant.
This isn’t the first season belts have been a major trend during fashion week, going way beyond the boring patent leather strips that sometimes come attached to pants and dresses. Huge bands with gleaming gemstone clasps, elaborate wraps and even more surprising materials are being used to center all kinds of ensembles right now.
There’s plenty of designer inspiration coming off the runways and these street style stars are here to show you exactly how to style your chicest cinchers. With skill, the right belt can enhance curves and give the eye a dividing line to focus on, effortlessly balancing the rest of your outfit. Switch up your favorite silhouette by adding a statement belt or be daring and create a whole new shape you’ve never tried before.
Statement Belts (Runway Manhattan)
-
Chill Thrills
Outside the Michael Kors runway show, blogger Chriselle Lim coordinates an edgy leather jacket with a skirt covered in a flurry of floral appliqués. An icy white belt is perfect for those early spring days that just will not warm up.
Image: Runway Manhattan/Grace Lunn
-
Sun Belt
When the springtime sun does show its face, what could be better than a bright yellow sundress? Editor of ELLE Thailand Ploy Chava anchors her sweet ruffled look with gem studded Miu Miu leather and disco-inspired accents.
Image: Runway Manhattan/Grace Lunn
-
Undone Professionalism
Eighties professionalism meets modern polish. Instead of buttoning her checked blazer, blogger Carlotta Rubaltelli fastens a belt over the top.
Image: Runway Manhattan/Michael Ip
-
Elongated Elegance
Model Caroline Daur emphasizes the elegant shape of her Jil Sander dress with a contrasting black strap tied gently around the waist. The belt’s length playfully mirrors her extra long sleeves, while a plush Miu Miu clutch adds even more texture to the delicately ruched ensemble.
Image: Runway Manhattan/Grace Lunn
-
That's a Wrap
Blogger Laura Tønder breaks up her monochrome ensemble with a mustard yellow corset belt. Gucci loafers add a touch of luxury to the relaxed look.
Image: Runway Manhattan/Grace Lunn
-
Chanel's Pastels
Powder blue tweed and pale lace are tied together by bubble gum pink in this feminine pairing. Actress Tina Leung grounds her love for Chanel with down-to-earth skinny jeans.
Image: Runway Manhattan/Michael Ip
-
Weighty Matters
Thinking outside the box, this utilitarian piece from Off-White is inspired by everyday moving truck straps. Denim on denim provides a solid background complete with oversized cuffs for some tomboy flair.
Image: Runway Manhattan/Grace Lunn
-
Double Definition
The waistline of this outfit is shaped both by feminine ruffles and a more masculine belt fitted with a D-clasp. A belt combined with tailoring translates to some serious definition.
Image: Runway Manhattan/Grace Lunn
-
Rodeo Glam
A fitted tan band with an unusual extension is the standout feature of this Western chic outfit. Leather fastenings and chap-like panels pile more texture onto this Loewe dress.
Image: Runway Manhattan/Grace Lunn
-
Starry Style
Outside Elie Saab’s latest show, blogger Camila Coelho shows her loyalty to the label in a graphic dress from its Spring 2017 catwalk. Trailed by a flowing train, the piece is further accented by a celestial belt buckle.
Image: Runway Manhattan/Grace Lunn
