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 of bohemian style, I believe a belt is an essential accessory for any wardrobe. It allows you to personalise an outfit and elevate its look in no time at all!
Today, I'm sharing 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 defines your waist and enhances your silhouette, while allowing you to personalise 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: un-dyed natural leather, for example, is perfect with a bohemian dress. If you have a few curves, you can definitely wear this accessory, which will help balance your silhouette and give you a stylish edge!
Want to know more? Keep reading to find out:
- What belt to wear with a long bohemian-style dress,
- How to choose the right belt colour that matches your dress and personal style,
- More information on vegan leather and fabric belts, unique and ethical,
- What belt to wear with a long dress if you have a curvy figure,
- And plenty of tips and outfit ideas in photos to help you find your style!
Why Wear a Belt with a Long Dress?
Traditionally, belts are mostly used to hold up trousers, so they don't slip down. However, they are actually fashion accessories that can be worn with a dress, adding a touch of style to your outfit.
To enhance your figure
If you're wearing a long dress, putting a belt at your waist will highlight it and accentuate the curve of your hips.
This will also help structure your profile: indeed, to create a harmonious look, your clothing should follow these proportions:
- ⅓ at the top
- ⅔ at the bottom
➡️ The opposite is also possible!
The belt helps to emphasise these proportions, creating a sense of balance.
To personalise your outfit
A belt is also a simple way to customise your outfit and showcase your tastes and interests. Don’t hesitate to choose an original style, featuring a lovely buckle or an interesting material effect: 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 change your look every day without cluttering up your wardrobe!
A Natural Leather Belt for a Bohemian Look
Bohemian dresses are known for their flow, comfort, and lightness. Their patterns are often delicate and natural. Fitting such a dress is a great idea as it will gently enhance your silhouette.
You can choose a thin or thick belt, depending on your preferences and body shape. For the material, I recommend natural, unprocessed leather, which pairs 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 long dresses? Check out our collection on our online store 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 coloured belt, to choose with care
There are two main trends for belts: choosing a model that matches the colour of your dress, so it’s not too obvious, or selecting a different one to make it stand out. I'll provide you with more details in the following paragraphs!
Matching Tones for a Classy and Chic Style
If your belt mainly serves to shape your outfit by defining your waist, you might opt for a style that matches the colour of your dress, or one that is a close shade. This will create the illusion that your belt is a part of your dress.
This option is more suitable if:
- you prefer discretion,
- you’re wearing a black or dark dress and want to maintain a complete black look,
- you’re looking to draw attention to something other than your bust: your hair, an accessory, shoes…
In contrast, for a touch of originality
Are you keen to wear a stylish and trendy outfit that showcases your love for fashion? If so, you might like to pick a belt that contrasts with the colour of your maxi 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 decide to go for colour, I recommend linking it to another element of your outfit: bag, shoes, jacket, or even a hair accessory.
To choose a shade that contrasts well and enhances your style, you can refer to complementary colour harmonies:
- red and green,
- yellow and purple,
- blue and orange.
A stylish and ethical vegan belt
Are you passionate about animal welfare and the environment? Does your bohemian lifestyle reflect your beliefs and your desire to protect nature? Good news — there are belts available that aren't made from animal leather.
It can certainly be a fabric belt, but there are also models that closely resemble traditional leather. These are made from synthetic materials, often recycled.
So, it's completely 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 Breezy Outfit
Whether it is made from the same fabric as the dress or in a different shade, a fabric belt is an excellent option, especially in summer. Here are some details about it to help you decide if it’s right for you!
What are the advantages of this type of belt?
Very practical, the fabric belt stands out because:
- It's very easy to wash,
- You can make it yourself easily,
- It suits all body types,
- It doesn't feel tight and is comfortable...
Plus importantly, it's perfect for creating beautiful bows 🎀 that will enhance your waistline.
How to sew a fabric belt?
You don’t need to be an expert seamstress to make this type of belt. It’s actually a fantastic exercise for beginners. Here’s a short video tutorial that explains how to go about it:
Discover the Japanese-inspired obi belt!
Do you know about the traditional Japanese belts called “Obi”? This term refers to the strip of fabric used to fasten 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 local artisans, for instance on Etsy. Obis are known for their comfort, their stability (they stay in place), and their wide variety of patterns, which allow you to personalise your outfits!
Should you wear a belt with a dress that's already fitted at the waist?
My answer to this question is quite straightforward: anything is possible! A dress with a fitted waist will already highlight your shape; however, a belt can be a lovely detail that adds sophistication to your outfit.
When selecting your dress and belt, make sure to check that they complement each other well, and ensure that your belt is wide enough to fully 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 definitely possible, and it’s actually a trick that will help you enhance your figure and highlight your curves. However, I recommend that you avoid very thin belts, especially if your curves are around your stomach area. A thick belt will create a lovely effect and balance out your silhouette.
You now know everything you need to match a belt with all your long dresses (and shorter ones too!). Are you 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!