by Bridget Webber

Created on: February 28, 2008   Last Updated: August 09, 2011

Choosing the right belt to wear depends largely on the purpose of the belt in question. A belt may be used to hold another garment up, or for decorative purposes. It's possible, of course, to have a belt which is both decorative and stops trousers from creeping down, but a purely decorative belt can be worn in many different ways to this.

Belts which hold up another garment

A belt which is fit for purpose, and which fits you comfortably, is suitable to hold up another garment. Belts which fasten with a buckle need to have the right amount of holes to close snugly, without being tight and uncomfortable, or so loose that they are a constant cause for concern.

The next consideration may be about the material a belt is made from, and its appearance. Leather belts can be both practical and attractive. They come in a variety of thicknesses, and are either plain or embellished.

The style of belt you choose will depend on where you intend to wear it. If you are going to work a plain classically styled belt will be best. If going to a nightclub a belt made of material which sparkles or with embellishments will help you to stand out from the crowd.

Decorative belts

There are a huge variety of attractive belts on the market which can really help to add richness to your personal style. Some are thin and beaded while others are wide and embroidered in ethnic colors, and are imported from the third world. Often money paid for them goes towards their producers in poverty stricken areas.

Decorative belts, unlike supportive ones, don't need to be worn directly around the waist. They can be worn on the hips, or at an angle from the waist to the hip at the other side of the body.

How you wear a belt will lend personality to your outfit and give your look individuality. A figure hugging red dress can look great with a wide, black belt. A tailored linen suit will look wonderful with a thin leather belt in a similar color to the suit.

Belts which gather material in

Many loose fitting clothes can benefit from a belt being added to them in-order to gather material in, and give the wearer a great shape. Waist clinchers, often worn in the 1950's and a relation of the corset belt worn in medieval times are back in fashion. There are also belts, made from a wide band of material with ties at each end, available to buy in many different choices of style.

Tips for choosing belts

Most of the time it is best to wear loud and decorative belts when socializing, and to wear plainer, well made belts for time spent at work. Likewise, belts made of shiny material are attention grabbing and best worn when out with friends, rather than to the office where a more subdued belt will be better appreciated.

If you have plenty of time to care for a belt you can choose one which needs to be polished and looked after, but if you are very busy, one made out of a durable and washable material may be better for you.

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