The £12 Accessory Transforming My Wardrobe
The belt is having its moment in the spotlight. It may be small, but this one piece can change your outfit’s entire silhouette. And while designer iterations may have led the charge, high-street options are making the biggest impact.
As a teenager, I recall my mother pleading with me to wear a belt with my jeans. Despite her having her own stellar career in fashion, I rebuked her insider style advice. There was no way I was adding a belt to my, on reflection, not-so-cool outfit. I knew best. And yet, here I am decades later preaching the merits of this hard-working finishing touch. I can finally see how this small accessory can pull everything together – not something I was concerned about as a teen.
Designers have led the charge on the resurgence of the humble yet mighty fashion belt. Céline, YSL, Dior and Ralph Lauren all celebrated the accessory in their own signature ways. Think slim leather straps, statement hardware, decorative, jewellery-like finishes and even Western-inspired detailing. Not only do these belts complete outfits, but they also offer a piece of that designer label, without having to invest in eye-wateringly expensive fashion.
If, on the other hand, you are like me, with a penchant for all that our great high street has to offer, I urge you to check out H&M. As my interest in belts piqued, I initially returned to where it all began – my mum. I raided her wardrobe and discovered numerous vintage beauties, all with a slightly worn-in feel. These are the ones I adore, but it was the £12.99 styles in this great Swedish store that got me hooked. For a tiny hit on my bank card, I could opt for something sleek and modern one day, then perhaps more bohemian the next.
At such an affordable price, it gave me an opportunity to experiment. I have since gone on to find the most beautiful designer-inspired styles from brands like Madewell (one of my faves), Mango and & Other Stories. So, really, what I’m saying here is that yep, your mother is always right. Thanks, mum.
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The belt has revived its style status. Designer options are undeniably divine, with labels such as YSL, The Frankie Shop and Déhanche standing out. However, the high street styles are also equally beautiful and more purse-friendly.
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