Belts

Originally practical items meant to hold up trousers or cinch armor, belts evolved into deliberate style statements as early as the Bronze Age (when decorative metal plaques were added) and became especially prominent in fashion during the 1920s, when the drop-waist flapper dresses of the era demanded something to create shape at the hips. Since then, belts have never really left the spotlight.

Here are some of the main ways belts function as fashion accessories today:

1. Defining the waist - A wide or corset-style belt over a loose dress or over-sized blazer instantly creates an hourglass silhouette. This trick has been a runway staple from Yves Saint Laurent’s 1970s safari dresses to modern street style.

1. Adding contrast or color - A bright red leather belt on an all-black outfit, a neon canvas belt with neutral cargo pants, or a metallic gold belt over a little black dress can act as the single pop of color an outfit needs.

1. Texture and detail - Think woven raffia, braided leather, studded punk styles, chain belts, or rope belts. These bring tactile interest to simple looks (a plain white shirt and jeans instantly feel more considered with a chunky western buckle or a slim 90s-inspired chain belt).

1. Layering and proportion play - Low-slung belts sitting on the hips (very Y2K revival), high-waisted paperbag-waist belts that add volume, or double-belted looks create visual breaks and alter the perceived proportions of an outfit.

In essence, a belt is one of the few accessories that is simultaneously functional and purely decorative. You can spend $20 or $20,000 on one, wear it tight or loose, high or low, front-facing or with the buckle at the back—and each choice sends a different message. That’s why, season after season, belts remain one of fashion’s most reliable tools for personal expression.