If a woman can’t have enough shoes, then you might as well say that a woman can’t have enough belts! The “belt” has become a staple in the women’s fashion industry and it all started with the plains. Women wanted to have a fashion piece with a purpose and a plain was simply too simple and common. The belt then evolved into fringe, tassels, metal, gem, leather and a host of other intriguing fabrics. Women finally had a fashion piece they could use with any ensemble and that itself was enough for the artists.
Today, women have their choice of belts in materials as diverse as leather, crocodile skin, whale skin, woven in gold, silver and platinum.onis genuine crocodile skin beltsare a very good fashion piece but can really break the bank. Wholesale prices for crocodile skin belts can go as high as $1000 per hide with numbers greater than 12K. It is not unusual to find a designer crocodile skin belt priced at $lux. These belts often define an era and claim territory as lush crocodile belts can go up to $10,000 per hide. There are less expensive synthetic materials like polyester and cotton and these are slightly less expensive than their animal brethren. The same goes for women’s belts with numbers greater than 8K which go for as low as $100 for a 12″ belt. The much more durable leather belts come in at about $400 per hide but can command prices more than $1000.
It used to be that belts were simply plain and functional but designers like Marc Jacobs realized that even the Plain Janes could be modernized a little. Now, you can get belts that feature glitter, color coordinated eyes and even a nameplate. These are generally smaller than the plain leather belts and used to emphasize feminine proportions when worn as shirts or clutches. A nameplate belt goes about one inch in width and is typically worn on the shank (the underside of the shirt collar). Normally, a blouse or top which has a round collar would work best with such a belt.
Another current trend is the use of braided leather belts. Braids traditionally were made of metal strips, but recent times have seen the belts implementing braided strips. These braided strips might be made of rhinestone-wrapped wire, pearls or any number of specialty fabrics. Again, the plain Janes will work well with this trend.
For the work wardrobe, belts are crucial to add a bit of spice to otherwise boring ensembles. Women have always had the choice of leather or canvas belts but those options no longer vis-à-vis the buckle. You can get the plainest black or brown leather belt from $25. The option to match it to your outfit is a nice touch and adds some subtle class to a very ordinary black leather belt.
If you like a classier option, Rhinestone embossed belts can work in your favor. The embossing is made of finely cut pieces of Rhinestone and makes a colorful addition to a basic belt. Also, with embossing, the more subtle the designs and colors, the more they will grab eyeballs.
You can get a multi-fabric belt and wear it with different tops. Also, you should pick a belt that accommodates your body type. Belts are often going to look best on you when they match you well.
Last, remember to not go overboard with the belts. If it is too long, it will just get in the way, and if it is too short, it will never get used to wear. If you are constantly pulling it up, putting a cover up or pulling it out of range, it is probably too long.
