What belt to wear with a long dress? 👗

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'm here to help you.

As a fashion enthusiast, particularly when it comes to bohemian style, I believe that a belt is an essential accessory for any wardrobe. It allows you to personalise an outfit and give it a touch of flair in no time at all!

Today, I’m offering you a comprehensive guide to help you find the perfect belt for any long dress, no matter your style or body shape.

Wearing a belt with a long dress is a fantastic idea, as it highlights your waist and enhances your silhouette, while also allowing you to personalise your outfit. When choosing your belt, I'd recommend matching it with your shoes or an accessory, such as a handbag. It's also important to pay attention to the material of your belt: a natural untanned leather one, for example, would be ideal with a bohemian dress. If you have a few curves, you can definitely wear this accessory, as it’s perfect for balancing your silhouette and adding a touch of style!

Want to know more? Keep reading to uncover:

  • What belt to wear with a bohemian-style long dress,
  • How to choose the right belt colour that matches your dress and personal taste,
  • More information about vegan leather and fabric belts, unique and ethical,
  • What belt to wear with a long dress if you're curvy,
  • And lots of tips and outfit ideas with photos to help you find your style!

Why wear a belt with a long dress?

Traditionally, belts are mainly used to hold up trousers, preventing them from slipping down. However, they are also genuine fashion accessories that can be worn with a dress to add a touch of style to your outfit.

long dress belt

To Enhance Your Figure

If you're wearing a long dress, adding a belt at your waist will highlight it and accentuate the curve of your hips.

This will also help to organise your profile: indeed, to create a harmonious look, your clothes should adhere to the following proportions:

  • One third at the top
  • Two thirds at the bottom

➡️ The opposite is also possible!

The belt allows you to highlight these proportions, creating an impression of balance.

To customise your outfit

A belt is also an easy way to customise your outfit and show off your tastes and interests. Don’t hesitate to choose an original design, with a beautiful 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 dress differently every day, without cluttering up your wardrobe!

A natural leather belt for a bohemian look

Bohème dresses are known for their flow, comfort, and lightness. Their patterns are often delicate and natural. Fitting such a dress is a brilliant idea, as it will gently highlight your figure.

Natural leather belt for bohemian women's dress

You can choose a thin or thick belt, depending on your preferences and body shape. For the material, I recommend natural, unprocessed leather, which will pair perfectly with the colours and fabrics of bohemian dresses.

Additionally, natural leather can easily serve as a subtle reminder of your shoes, your handbag, or any other accessory made from the same material.

👉 Are you on the lookout for bohemian style maxi dresses? Check out our collection on our online shop dedicated to this style! You'll find some of the dresses featured in the images of this article, along with many other trendy designs.

A colourful belt, to choose carefully

There are two main trends for belts: choosing a model that matches the colour of your dress so that it blends in, or going for a different colour to make it stand out. I’ll provide more details in the following lines!

Tone on tone for a classy and chic style

If your belt mainly serves to define your outfit by accentuating your waist, you can opt for a style in the same shade as your dress, or a closely matching tone. This will create the illusion that your belt is an extension of your dress.

long black dress belt for women

This option is quite suitable if:

  • you prefer a subtle look,
  • you’re wearing a black or dark dress and want to maintain a completely black outfit,
  • you want to draw attention to something other than your bust: your hair, an accessory, your shoes…

In contrast, to add a bit of originality

Are you looking to wear a stylish and trendy outfit that showcases your love for fashion? If so, you might want to consider choosing a belt that contrasts with the colour of your long dress.

This can be white if your dress is black, or the other way around. However, you can also opt for a coloured style. If you do choose this, I recommend matching it with another element of your outfit: bag, shoes, jacket, or even a hair accessory.

colourful belt women's fashion

To choose a shade that contrasts well and gives you style, you can rely on complementary colour harmonies:

  • red and green,
  • yellow and purple,
  • blue and orange.

A Stylish and Ethical Vegan Belt

Are you sensitive to animal welfare and environmental issues? Does your bohemian lifestyle reflect your values and commitment to protecting nature? Well, you'll be pleased to know that there are belts available that are not made from animal leather.

It can certainly be a fabric belt, but there are also models that mimic traditional leather quite effectively. These are made from synthetic materials, often recycled.

eco-friendly chic vegan belt for women

So, it's entirely 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 from the same material as the dress or a different shade, a fabric belt is a fantastic option, especially in summer. Here’s some information about it to help you decide if it's right for you!

fabric belt summer dress women

What are the benefits of this type of belt?

Very practical, the fabric belt stands out because:

  • It’s very easy to wash,
  • You can make it yourself quite simply,
  • It suits all body types,
  • It doesn’t constrict and is comfortable...

What's more, it's perfect for tying beautiful bows 🎀 that will accentuate your waist.

How to Sew a Fabric Belt?

You don't need to be an expert seamstress to make these types of belts. It's actually a great exercise for beginners. Here's a short video tutorial that shows you how to do it:

Discover the Japanese-inspired obi belt!

Are you familiar with the traditional Japanese sashes known as “Obi”? This term refers to the piece of fabric used to secure a kimono, as well as lighter sashes made from the same material that are worn for less formal occasions.

Japanese obi belt made from fabric

You can get these accessories from artisan creators, for example on Etsy. Obi belts are notable for their comfort, their stability (they don't slip), and their wide variety of patterns, which allow you to personalise your outfits!

Should you wear a belt with a dress that already has a fitted waist?

My answer to this question is quite simple: anything is possible! A dress with a fitted waist will already highlight your figure; however, a belt can be a lovely detail that adds sophistication to your outfit.

women's belt for dress

When selecting your dress and belt, be sure to check if they go well together, and whether your belt is wide enough to completely cover the elastic or seam that shapes your dress.

Can I wear a belt with a dress if I have a curvy figure?

It's absolutely possible, and in fact, it's a tip that will help you enhance your figure and accentuate your curves. However, I recommend that you steer clear of very thin belts, especially if your curves are around your tummy. A thick belt will create a lovely effect and balance out your silhouette.

plus size dress belt for curvy women

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 plenty of guides to answer all the questions you have!

Need a bit of inspiration? Check out the ideal belts to complement a long dress. View Our Belt and Dress Ideas