Back to School: Get Belted

Belts are an easy way to inject more style into your outfit. You can add one to a simple dress or swap out a flimsy fabric belt to define your waist. You can add them to dress pants to finish the look. You can wear them with jean to pump up a simple outfit. Sometimes all you need to revive an old outfit is a new, cool belt. But when was the last time you bought one?

Recently, as I was clearing out my closet, I realized that most of my belts don’t fit. They belong to a body that I don’t live in anymore. So I need to rebuild a belt wardrobe that can lift and style my outfits. Here are some belts that I’ve recently purchased.

I am not a designer belt girlie. I want something simple, wearable, and versatile. This B-Low The Belt plaque belt is perfect for me. I like the simple buckle, the easy styling and the Goldilocks-width — not too thin, not too thick. If you would prefer a subtler buckle, this belt would be my pick.

At $125+ for a belt, B-Low is a pricier option. But I’ve been impressed with the quality of both of the belts that I’ve purchased. For comparable quality in a less-spendy package, J.Crew is always my first stop. I really like this Tonal Buckle Belt for those times when you really don’t want a piece of metal flashing at you. I think it’s the perfect choice for a subtle pantsuit or a more refined dress. The belt comes in four versatile colors.

Other fun belts at J.Crew right now include this simple suede belt with an oval buckle. I also love this gold-chain belt that brings the 1980s back to life in a really approachable way.

I’m always looking for belts that can give breezy dresses more structure. It’s nice when these belts also bring a visual element to the party by having a cool buckle or a unique style. This rope belt from Chico’s brings a lot of casual elegance to a flowy dress. I also love this straw belt and this woven belt from Ann Taylor.

The last belt we should discuss is the waist belt. The belt that doesn’t need belt loops. This gold-scale belt from Tuckernuck is a more impactful choice. For something simpler, Anthro has this skinny belt with a subtle clasp. WHBM also has two fabulous choices this braided stretch-waist belt and this twist front woven belt. Both would look incredible with a simple shirtdress.

Where do you buy your belts? What do you wear them with? And if you’re plus-size or petite, which retailers do you recommend? Leave your thoughts in the comments.

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