Belts are back!

Spring is upon us, and with it come changing seasonal fashion trends. The subtle changes in the weather and the gradual emerging of spring colors signal that the time has come to shift our wardrobes to something a bit more substantial and retire our winter clothes to the back of the closet.

This is an exciting time of year in the fashion world. Designers have a lot more to work with while creating layers with jackets, belts, and more.

Must-have looks

If you’re a fan of accessories, then you probably already have a closet full of belts. But this year, the fashion trends are boasting a wide assortment of cinch belts, which are this year’s must-have look for any true fashionista. Yes, cinch-waist, corset-style belts are making a comeback, and they’re great if you have the waistline to pull them off.

The problem is, not everybody does. If you don’t, this is one look to definitely avoid. Drawing attention to the obvious isn’t always flattering, and it’s definitely a look that draws the eye directly to your midsection. For women with hourglass figures, though, the look is super sexy.

Color and texture

Vibrant colors in the brightest yellows, pinks, purples, reds, and greens imaginable are everywhere on belts right now, and they’re being made in a variety of materials besides your standard leather. Choose from beads to cloth, pleather, plastic, or elastic right now to get the latest looks trending.

Adding bright splashes of color through your accessories is an easy way to punch up any outfit and get you noticed. Try it the next time you wear your favorite pair of skinny jeans with a short blazer, and make sure you play off colors in your purse or shoes for a tied-in look.

Waist chains

Waist chains are making a comeback and are another big hit this year. From the oversized ’60s linked-bangle hoops to macramé to polished rock and stones, this belt is being paired with dresses and long sweaters for a fun bohemian feel that’s very popular with women of all ages.

These are purely for fashion, with little to no function, and they’re a fantastic way to bring a little pizzazz to the otherwise ordinary.

Fashion staples

There’s nothing like a dependable fashion staple to count on for classic looks. There are two particular belts that may come and go with the fashion tides, but they’re never completely out of style and they always come back around to being en vogue within a relatively short period of time.

These two basics are the wide belt and the skinny belt. Worn mid-waist, they can give a much-needed break to such apparel as sheath and sweater dresses while adding polish and sophistication to create a fashion statement for an otherwise plain ensemble. A three-inch-wide black leather belt or a tan leather belt of less than an inch in width will complement many a look throughout the entire year.

Photo source: Flickr