Belt It and Fashion Yourself Skinny!

Who says small can’t make a statement?  When an outfit needs a pop of color or a little more shape, a skinny belt can step right in and amp up your look. Cinched around the waist, a skinny belt adds a ladylike quality to boxy dresses or coats. Looped through jeans, it helps a simple outfit look more pulled together.

Recent fashion accessory trends have shifted from the thick, wide-belt to layering with skinny belts.  Sure, skinny belts are less obvious than chunky belts or wide belts, but they’re the perfect way to pull together an ultra-chic outfit.  In fact, there's nothing not to love about these tiny accents. They're inexpensive to purchase, can be worn year-round, accentuate a thin waist, and are easy to incorporate into an existing wardrobe.

Skinny belts go with any style. If your style is more boho-hippie, pair a skinny leather belt with a floor-length maxi and denim jacket. If you’re looking for something a bit preppier, cinch a skinny belt over your favorite cardi for a look that is classic, but trendy. This trend is a great way to take last year’s outfit and turn it into a brand new look!

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 solid black, brown, or cream-- for wardrobe versatility. Skinny belts can be purchased almost anywhere, including Target, JCrew, Banana Republic, White House Black Market, and Macys.

Wondering how to wear these itty-bitty belts? 

First, 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.

Second, 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 belt loops 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.

Next, 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.

Lastly, create chic everyday outfits by pairing a skinny belt over light layers, such as a long, fitted t-shirt and a thin 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.

Trends begin in many ways--celebrities, designers, fashion shows, magazines-- and utilizing all of these resources will help build your own 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.  For some great looks styled by Whitney Port check out the images below.