How to Outfit With a Skinny Belt

Recent fashion accessory trends have shifted from the thick, wide-belt to layering with skinny belts. Skinny belts are inexpensive to purchase, can be worn year-round, accentuate a thin waist, and are easy to mix-and-match to an existing wardrobe. The addition of a skinny belt to an outfit can make a woman look thinner and more fashion-forward. A few styling tips can help any woman incorporate a skinny belt into her personal style.

Difficulty: Easy

Instructions

1. 

   Mix and match with a variety of skinny belt styles: metallic, cut-out, patent, leather, woven and plaid. For a new skinny-belt fashionista, it's best to purchase one universal belt-- preferably sold black, brown, or cream-- for wardrobe versatility. Skinny belts can be purchased almost anywhere, including Target, JCrew, Anthropologie, GAP, Nordstroms and Macys.

2. 

   Examine your wardrobe. Pull items from your wardrobe that need an updated accent-- neutral tunics, shift dresses, separate basics, sweater dresses--and complement them with a skinny belt.

3. 

   Incorporate a skinny belt. Wear it just above the navel to accentuate the thinnest part of the waist. Don't cinch it too tight. The skinny belt is a great look for women with long torsos and hourglass figures. For women with shorter torsos or with a little extra weight around the midsection, try wearing the skinny belt through pant beltloops or around the hips. For plus-size women, try outfitting with thicker belts (not the slinky, thin kind) to create a proportional balance to your look.

4. For dressier outfitting, wear a skinny belt over a fitted blouse paired with a pencil skirt or wide-leg trousers. A solid leather belt, shimmering metallic, or classic equestrian style are good options. Have a muted work wardrobe? A red or yellow belt can add a refreshing pop of color to any neutral look.

5. Create chic everyday outfits by pairing a skinny belt over light layers, such as a long, fitted t-shirt and a thin grandpa cardigan. Because a skinny belt cinches the waist and accentuates a woman's curves, this belt is a great way to feminize long sweaters and layers.This look is casual without sacrificing style.

6. Look and learn. Trends begin in many ways--celebrities, designers, fashion shows, magazines-- and utilizing all of these resources will help build your personal style and confidence. With the skinny belt trend on the rise, pay attention to how skinny belts are used in commercials, print media and store mannequins. You will find inspiration all around you.

Resources

• Lucky Magazine