Women's belts are an easy way to rejuvenate any outfit. Fashion's most loved man, Tim Gunn, believes that belts are a fantastic way to emphasize one's silhouette and take any outfit from frumpy to fabulous. Belts are not just a way for you to hold up your pants. There are several different types of belts and different ways to wear belts. Following these guidelines will always keep you fashion forward and looking your best.

Belt Sizes

Wide, skinny, thick, and thin. No, we're not referring to the vast differences of women's shapes (we'll talk about that topic in a minute). Belts come in a variety of sizes, and it's up to you to decide which type of belt you prefer. Both wide and skinny belts have been very popular over the past several years, and they don't look like they are going out of style any time soon. These belts are available to fit a variety of budgets; low budget retailers such as Forever 21 and Claire's offer whimsical trendy belts under $20. If you plan to go bold, go wide. If you're goal is to channel a demure classic look, wear a thin skinny belt.

Types of Women's Belts

(Sash, Obi, Patent Leather, Studded, Braided, D-ring)

Women can be very detailed. Our male counterparts may see a pink shirt. We, however, see a salmon shirt with metallic highlighted thread throughout the collar and sleeves. Fashion is all about details. The old adage less is more is true, but every now and then a girl's gotta flaunt what she's got. Belts are a great way to add a high degree of flamboyance to a basic ensemble.

A sash has no buckles and can be self tied. An obi belt hails from the country of Japan, and is a very high and wide belt that can be knotted and tied in the front or in back. Patent leather refers to a material that a belt is composed on. Patent leather belts are fun because they are more vibrant than basic leather belts, and add a bit of dazzling panache to your outfit. A studded belt refers to the hardware that can adorn the belt. Grommets, stones, zippers, and other add ons are a popular way to rock the rocker glam look. A braided belt features three strands that are braided together for a rope like look; braided belts are a great casual accessory that can accompany more laid back or bohemian style trends. Don't be fooled. Braided belts can also be quite fancy. A d-ring belt clasps together with two hooks in the shape of the letter 'D'.

How to Wear a Belt

Problem: Bigger hips, smaller waist, bigger bust

Solution: Wide belt

A wide belt will play up your stellar hour glass shape. You will have curve for days and a belt will work well with your body type. Don't hide behind draping fabrics. Use a belt to accent your small waist.

Problem: long torso

Solution: thin belt

A thin belt will break up your torso and add definition detail to your waist.

Versatile Solutions

Go preppy chic by adding a simple skinny belt to your black cardigan.

Feminine style is to be had with a flirty a-line skirt, silk blouse, and wide obi belt.

Consider a leather braided belt to wear with your flowing maxi print dress.

Pin a flower brooch or pin to a basic belt to add a bit of romanticism to your outfit.

A flowing long sleeve no button sweater can always use a wide belt to keep the sweater closed, and add a bit of draping for a trendy look.

No matter your shape, women's belts are a perfect match for all things alluring, fashionable, and sumptuous.

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