A good belt is the most underrated summer accessory
image via @jasminsparrowjewellery/INSTAGRAM
words by daisy henry
“Now, it’s less about function and more about form.”
We’re calling it, belts are having a main character moment this summer. Not just your traditional leather buckle variety, either (though they’ll always hold a place in our hearts). Now, it’s less about function and more about form. Anything from a frayed linen, to plaited, studded, even beaded belts are appearing in the collections of some of our favourite local designers.
On Melbourne Fashion Week runways, we saw inspired takes on the accessory everywhere. Cakey Sportsman’s oversized, wide buckles were styled with mini skirts and drapey tops, Amy Cottrell’s zip-tie skirt was equipped with three overlapping white leather belts, and both St Agni and Lucinda Babi’s collections featured beaded chains slung low over models’ hips.
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We’re big believers that belts hold the power to change the whole vibe of an outfit – particularly handy for the kind of lazy, carefree dressing that comes with summer. If you’re looking to revive a stale outfit, simply grab whatever you can and sling it around your hips. Wear it low, around the waist to cinch in an oversized tank dress, or if you’re feeling risque, see how it goes as a top. If we’ve convinced you, then keep scrolling for some of our favourite styles you can find locally.
Oversized
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An oversized belt is, despite its grandeur, a relatively easy way to step your toe into the world of belts. A chunky buckle and wide strap reigned supreme in the early 2000s, so we suggest doing the rounds at your local op shop. Or, for a local brand recommendation, try St Agni’s Wide Classic Belt or Kahe’s Punctured Belt.
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For another oversized option, we love Maroske Peech’s Indie Demi Belt. A pleated style slashed at the hem, the buckle itself is branded with the label’s name and star shaped rivets. Or, explore its other colourways, including tweed, white and floral.
Beaded and woven
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One of our favourites styles to come out of the belt resurgence is the woven, beaded variety. If you have a long, beaded necklace, then try fastening it around your hips over an oversized dress. However if you’re searching for local labels, we love St Agni’s collaboration with jewellery label, Vermeer Studio, or Wonwontutu’s Pouli Belt, seen at Friends with Frank. Or, swap beads for a statement shell like Jasmin Sparrow’s Mother of Pearl belt.
Y2K
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Perhaps your belt wish list skews towards the Y2K era? Maybe that’s metallic, faux crocodile skin, cheetah print, plaited or maybe its just several belts worn over the top of each other. If so, your best bet is to scour the op shops, Depop or pre-loved boutiques specialising in Y2K styles, like Sydney’s So Familia.
Peplum, linen and macrame
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Byron Bay label Deiji Studios has featured a variety of different belt styles in their collections over the past couple of years. Its Napkin belt has been featured tied loosely over pants, while its Peplum style has been worn over dresses. The latest addition to Deiji’s range is a hand woven, Macrame wrap belt with adjustable ties.
For more on summer accessorising, try this.
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