Belts can be functional as well as glamorous, but like most things in fashion they can work for us or against us. When we don a belt we need to be aware that it will be a focal point, meaning it will be eye catching.

Whenever we accessorise, we need to create or maintain our horizontal and vertical balance. Visual balance is such an important element of looking fabulous. How we wear a belt has the capacity to destroy or create our visual balance, so there are three things to consider when wearing one; position, width and colour. When these three factors are right, most women can successfully add a belt for panache and interest.

POSITION.

        I.            Above the natural waistline will flatter a woman with:

Short waisted women are flattered by belts worn on the hip.

• A small to average bust, and/or
• A slight midriff, and/or
• An oval horizontal body shape

It will be least flattering on a woman who is long waisted.

      II.            On the natural waistline will flatter a woman with:

• A long waist, and/or
• An hour glass horizontal  body shape

It will be least flattering on a woman with minimal natural waist definition.

        I.            Below the natural waistline will flatter a woman with:

• A large bust, and/or
• A short waist

WIDTH

Wide belts are more successfully worn by;

Long bodied women can happily wear a belt directly on the waistline.

• Long waisted ladies

Thin to medium belts are a better choice for:

• straight figure types, and/or
• short waisted women

COLOUR

By colour we really mean contrast. Some of us will be flattered by belts that contrast strongly with the garment underneath. Others of us will do better to wear a belt in the same colour.

Contrasting belts attract attention. They can highlight a positive attribute and/or draw attention away from another figure challenge.

And please note that most women regardless of weight, shape or vertical proportions, will be flattered by a belt worn under an open jacket or vest.