How your most overlooked accessory just became your wardrobe's secret weapon
It's official - the only thing better than discovering a new trend that you actually love, is finding one that requires £0 to be spent. It's a very rare occasion, admittedly, but when it does happen it truly feels like all the stars have aligned.
We anticipated this happening way back in February, when we noticed the sudden influx of waist belts being worn on the AW19 runway via the likes of Prabal Gurung, JW Anderson and Tibi. Unlike the classic waist belt, however, it was no longer thoughtlessly threaded through the loops atop a pair of high-rise jeans, or pre-attached to a slim-fit dress.
Rather, waist belts were used to cinch in the silhouette of the most unexpected pieces.
Oversized jumpers were given unexpected structure, sloughy suits were sharpened, and long coats were nipped in - all with the help of a very simple, often black, sometimes patent, waist belt.
So how are we translating the trend in real life now that the season has finally rolled around?
Here are the six most impactful ways to wear it this season according to our favourite street style stars...
Getty Images1. WITH A BOXY BLAZER
Oversized tailoring has been wildly popular over the last few seasons, but this autumn the blazer gets an update with the loss of its sibling trouser and the serious cinch of a belt. If it's oversized enough, forgo everything else and wear the piece as a dress.
Getty Images2. WITH A SHIRT
Another infiltration into the world of tailoring, going sans jacket is no reason to skip the cinch. Instead, pop a waist belt atop your shirt to create a more defined waist and - crucially - leave the hem untucked.
Getty Images3. TO CINCH IN A KNIT
Going against everything we know - and love - about knitwear, this season the cosy, comfy staple just got a whole lot fancier. But if it means we can wear a big, baggy jumper to fancy dinners then we're here for it.
Getty Images4. INSTEAD OF A BAG
A festival-favourite, the belt-bag just proved its versatility and became seriously high-end. Not only is it bang on trend, but it also removes any need for a regular handbag and renders you entirely hands-free.
Getty Images5. OVER A DRESS
The classic, and perhaps easiest, way to embark on the trend this season is by slipping it over a midi dress. If you want to add a bit of an edge, opt for a deep one with a skirting, corseted accent à la Loewe.
Getty Images6. OVER YOUR OVERCOAT
If you're fond of a trench coat, this one should be an easy one to try. Pick either a mid-length coat or a wide-fit boxy, find a belt and wrap yourself up. It's as easy as it sounds.
