Summer Trend - The Wide Belt

One of the hottest, and least expensive (YEAH!) ways to update your look this season is with a wide belt.

So H-O-T this summer, a wide belt looks great with everything from a cute summer sundress to a fitted tunic with shorts.

And since they are so inexpensive, you could always splurge and buy a few in different colours and styles for even more looks!

Style Lesson 1

For the first day of the 30 day Practical Fashionista Back to Style School posts, I’m going to do a sort of “review” of last years trends that are still HOT.

The Wide Belt…For tips on how to wear it, check out my previous post, “Buckle Up”.

Boyfriend Jeans…The baggy jean is sticking around for another season. Make it new and ultra feminine by pairing with an animal print or red heel (two big trends this season).

Baring one shoulder….Whether in a dress or top, this look is still big this year. No matter your age or size, shoulders are always sexy!

Lace…As a top or tights, lace is a great flirty accent to add to the menswear inspired designs you’ll be wearing this year.

Buckle Up!

Once again, the belt is a popular accessory this season. Not only is it an inexpensive way to add visual interest and personality to an outfit, it’s also a great way to emphasize curves. But depending on your body type, there are some basic rules when it comes to “buckling up”.

- If you are taller and/or larger boned, you can handle wider belts with bold details.

- If you are smaller and more petite, go with a narrow to medium width belt. Buckles and other details should be smaller in nature as well.

- If you don’t have a defined waist, but love the look of a belt, make sure the colour of the belt is in the same colour family as the piece of clothing you are wearing with it. For example, if you are wearing a grey tunic, make sure the belt is grey to silver in tone. A belt of another colour will just bring attention to the fact that you don’t have a defined waist. Loose chain belts also work.