Are you wondering what type of belt to choose to enhance a long dress? Would you like some tips on how to match your belt with your outfit?
I will help you.
As a fashion enthusiast, especially when it comes to bohemian style, I believe that a belt is an essential accessory for any wardrobe. It adds a personal touch to an outfit and elevates its style in no time!
Today, I’m offering you a complete guide to help you find the perfect belt for any long dress, no matter your taste or body type.
Wearing a belt with a long dress is a fantastic idea because it defines your waist and enhances your silhouette, while also allowing you to customize your outfit. When choosing your belt, I recommend matching it with your shoes or an accessory, like a handbag. It’s also important to pay attention to the material of your belt: a natural undyed leather belt, for instance, will be perfect with a bohemian dress. If you have a few curves, you can absolutely wear this accessory, which is great for balancing your figure and adding style!
Want to learn more? Keep reading to find out:
- What belt to wear with a bohemian-style long dress,
- How to choose the right belt color that complements your dress and your personal style,
- More information about vegan leather and fabric belts that are original and ethical,
- What belt to wear with a long dress if you’re plus-sized,
- And lots of tips and outfit ideas in photos to help you find your style!
Why Wear a Belt with a Long Dress?
Traditionally, belts are primarily used to hold up pants so they don’t slip down. However, they are truly fashion accessories that can be worn with a dress to add flair to your outfit.
To Enhance Your Silhouette
If you’re wearing a long dress, adding a belt at your waist will accentuate it and highlight the curves of your hips.
This will also help to structure your profile: in order to create a harmonious outfit, your clothing should adhere to the following proportions:
- 1/3 at the top
- 2/3 at the bottom
➡️ The opposite is also possible!
The belt helps to emphasize these proportions, creating a sense of balance.
To Customize Your Outfit
A belt is also an easy way to customize your outfit and showcase your tastes and interests. Don’t hesitate to choose an original design, with a stylish buckle or an interesting texture: it will add character to your wardrobe!
👉 If you love belts, you can buy several different ones to wear with various outfits. It’s a great way to dressing up differently every day without having a cluttered closet!
A Natural Leather Belt for a Bohemian Look
Bohemian dresses are known for their flow, comfort, and lightweight feel. Their patterns are often delicate and natural. Fitting such a dress is a great idea because it will subtly enhance your silhouette.
You can choose a thin or thick belt based on your preferences and body shape. For the material, I recommend natural, untreated leather, which will pair beautifully with the colors and fabrics of bohemian dresses.
Additionally, natural leather can easily serve as a subtle reminder of your shoes, or your handbag, or any other accessory made from the same material.
👉 Are you looking for long bohemian-style dresses? Check out our collection on our online store dedicated to this style! You’ll find some of the dresses featured in this article’s illustrations, along with many other trendy designs.
A Colorful Belt: Choose Wisely
There are two main trends for belts: choosing a belt that matches the color of your dress so it blends in, or opting for a different color to make it stand out. I’ll provide more details in the following sections!
Monochromatic for a Classy and Chic Style
If your belt primarily serves to define your outfit by highlighting your waist, you can select a belt that matches the color of your dress or is a close shade. This will create the illusion that your belt is a part of your dress.
This option is best suited if:
- you prefer subtlety,
- you wear a black or dark dress and want to maintain a total black look,
- you want to draw attention to something other than your bust: your hair, an accessory, your shoes…
In contrast, to add a touch of originality
Are you looking to wear a stylish and trendy outfit that showcases your passion for fashion? If so, you might want to choose a belt that contrasts with the color of your maxi dress.
This can be white if your dress is black, or vice versa. However, you can also choose a colorful design. If you do, I recommend tying it back to another element of your outfit: your bag, shoes, jacket, or even a hair accessory.
To choose a shade that contrasts well and gives you a stylish look, you can rely on complementary color harmonies:
- red and green,
- yellow and purple,
- blue and orange.
A Stylish and Ethical Vegan Belt
Are you sensitive to animal rights and environmental issues? Does your bohemian lifestyle reflect your beliefs and your desire to protect nature? If so, you’ll be glad to know that there are belts available that are not made from animal leather.
It could certainly be a fabric belt, but there are also styles that closely mimic traditional leather. These are made from synthetic materials, often recycled.
It is definitely possible for you to have style while standing up for your values and staying true to the causes that inspire you! 😉
A Fabric Belt for a Light and Airy Outfit
Whether it’s made of the same fabric as the dress or a different color, a fabric belt is an ideal option, especially in the summer. Here’s some information about it to help you decide if it’s right for you!
What are the benefits of this type of belt?
Very convenient, the fabric belt stands out because:
- It is very easy to wash,
- You can make it yourself easily,
- It fits all body types,
- It isn’t tight and is comfortable…
Additionally, it’s perfect for tying beautiful bows 🎀 that will accentuate your waist.
How to Sew a Fabric Belt?
You don’t need to be a master seamstress to make this type of belts. It’s actually a great project for beginners. Here’s a short video tutorial that shows you how to get started:
Discover the Japanese-Inspired Obi Belt!
Are you familiar with the traditional Japanese belts known as “Obi”? This term refers to the fabric sash used to secure a kimono, as well as lighter belts made from the same material that are worn for less formal occasions.
You can find these accessories from artisan creators, such as on the Etsy website. Obi belts stand out for their comfort, stability (they don’t slip), and a wide variety of patterns, allowing you to customize your outfits!
Should You Wear a Belt with a Dress That Already Fits at the Waist?
My answer to this question is quite simple: anything is possible! A dress with a fitted waist will already emphasize your shape; however, a belt can be a lovely detail that adds sophistication to your outfit.
When selecting your dress and belt, be sure to check if they match well with each other, and make sure your belt is wide enough to completely cover the elastic or seam that cinches your dress.
Can I wear a belt with a dress if I’m curvy?
It is entirely possible, and it’s actually a tip that will help you enhance your figure and highlight your curves. However, I would recommend that you avoid very thin belts, especially if your curves are around your midsection. A thick belt will create a nice effect and balance your silhouette.
You now know everything you need to match a belt with all your long dresses (and shorter ones too!). Curious to discover more fashion tips? Check out our blog dedicated to this world, where you’ll find many guides to answer all the questions you have!