Last Updated on June 15, 2023 by Ellen Christian
Wondering how to wear a belt with a dress? What are the best ways to tie and wrap them around your waist? Check out these tips for the answers.
Posts may be sponsored. This post contains affiliate links, which means I will make a commission at no extra cost to you should you click through and make a purchase. As an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases.
Table of Contents
How to Wear a Belt With a Dress
We all know how crucial it is for women to have an arsenal of belts in their closets. Belts can add style, flair, and personality to any outfit. But wearing the right belt at the wrong time can make you look like you’re trying too hard or worse, give off a dated vibe.
This guide will show you how to wear belts with dresses of varying lengths and styles so that every one of your outfits looks on point! Don’t feel limited to jeans or pants.
It’s not just about knowing what kind of dress goes well with which type of belt, but also about understanding when each kind should be worn so that they accentuate your style instead of detracting from it.
Don’t feel like you need to wear the same color belt as your shoes. You can pick a single color for your overall outfit or draw attention to your waist with a brighter fabric. Let’s get started!
Is it weird to wear a belt with a dress?
There’s no right or wrong answer to this question, it all comes down to personal preference. There are lots of belt outfit ideas you can try.
Some women feel that belts are too masculine and prefer not to wear belts with dresses, while others believe that a well-chosen belt can add a touch of femininity to an outfit. Ultimately, it’s up to you to decide what looks best on you.
If you feel that belts are too masculine for your style, don’t wear them with dresses! If you prefer not to wear belts with shorts or skirts, then it’s best that you avoid wearing them with dresses.
Keep in mind that a belt can add a focal point to an outfit or add more structure to a very loose dress or skirt. You may want to consider a no holes belt if you worry your belt is too big.
How do you wear a belt with a dress?
There are a few different ways that you can wear a belt with a dress, and it all depends on the type of dress that you have and the look that you’re going for.
If your dress has a defined waistline, then you can wear a thin belt around your waist to accentuate it. A skinny belt is a great way to add a touch of girly femininity to an outfit.
In this case, try wearing a belt around your waist so that the two ends are tied in front and back. This gives off a chic look and will really show off your curves.
Alternatively, you can wear a wider belt with a defined waistline dress so that it accentuates your figure. This is perfect for special occasions since it gives off the classic prom-dress vibe.
The three basic ways to wear a belt with a dress are:
1) Around your waist
2) Folded in half and tied around your hips
3) Tied at the back of your waist, exposing some skin
How do you wear a wide belt with a dress?
If you’re wearing a dress with a defined waistline, you can wear a wide belt to accentuate it. Just make sure that the belt is proportionate to the size of your dress.
A wide belt on a small dress will make you look overpowering, while a thin belt on a large dress will just look silly.
Wearing a wide belt with a dress is simple – just wrap it around your waist and wrap it in the front or back. You can also fold it in half and tie it around your hips for a more casual look.
How do you wear a belt with no belt loops?
What if there is no existing belt? If your dress doesn’t have belt loops, don’t worry – you can still wear a belt with it!
The best way is to wrap the belt around your hips and then tuck the ends in so that they’re hidden. This is a great way to keep the belt from moving around or slipping off.
Learn more about how to dress your body type.
How do you wear a belt with a maxi dress?
If you’re wearing a maxi dress, then you’ll want to wear a thin belt around your waist to define it. A belt will help to show off your curves and give your outfit a more polished look.
In this case, try wearing a belt around your natural waist so that the two ends are tied in front and back. This gives off a chic look and will really show off your curves.
Alternatively, you can wear a thick belt with a maxi dress so that it accentuates your figure. If the belt is wide enough, it will even help to camouflage any problem areas.
Belt types
With many belt brands including leather, elastic, or cotton, you can choose the belt that’s the most flattering to you, the dress you’re wearing, and your figure.
Braided belt
A braided belt is a great way to add texture and interest to an outfit. They come in many different materials, so choose the one that best suits your dress and style.
Chain belt
A chain belt can be dressed up or down, making it a versatile accessory. Choose a thin chain belt for a more delicate look or thicker chain links for a bolder style.
Glitter belt
Glitter belts are a trendy way to glam up summer ensembles. They come in many different colors and styles, so choose one that will complement your dress the best.
One of my favorite holiday clothes combinations is a little black dress with a glitter belt.
Cotton belt
A cotton belt is best worn with summer dresses of different lengths to add texture and color to ensembles. A medium belt is great for casual outfits, but if your dress or skirt is too short you might look frumpy.
Leather belt
Leather belts are a classic accessory that can be dressed up or down. They work well with both formal and casual dresses, so they’re a great go-to choice.
They also look great with a jean jacket or another type of loose wrap. Remember that you can also wear this type of belt with a skirt.
Satin belt
A satin belt is a versatile option that can be worn with many different dresses. It adds color and texture to an outfit, so choose one of your favorite colors for an instant upgrade.
Sequined belt
A sequined belt can add some serious glamour to any occasion! It’s best paired with low-back or halter neck silhouettes.
Tie-back belt
This type of belt is a great accessory for bohemian dresses. It adds texture and color to any outfit, so choose one that best complements your dress. Make sure that it compliments your overall look.
Woven belt
A woven belt can be dressed up or down depending on the occasion, which makes this a versatile style choice. Choose one that has a colorful pattern to add some interest to your outfit.
Why not try a brown belt with animal print dresses? Or, match the belt color with your favorite dress and then add bold accessories.
When to wear a belt with a dress
Just like with any other accessory, there are certain times when it’s better to wear a belt with a dress. Pairing maxi dresses with a belt makes great fashion sense for almost every body type.
Here are some general guidelines to follow:
Belt type
Casual cotton belts can be worn with summer dresses of any length, but avoid pairing them with short dresses as they may make you look frumpy. For a dressier look, try a sequined or glitter belt.
Obi belts
An obi belt is best worn with a dress that has spaghetti straps or is backless. It’s best to avoid pairing obi belts with high necklines as it may overwhelm your upper body.
Dress length
Belts should always be worn with dresses of varying lengths to avoid looking dated. Wearing belts with short dresses will make you look frumpy while pairing them with long dresses can give off a dramatic vibe.
A black belt with evening attire can give you a defined waist that can add emphasis to an hourglass shape.
Occasion
The occasion will determine the kind of belt that’s appropriate to wear. For example, choose a casual cotton belt for a fun day at the beach or a dressier leather belt for a formal event.
Body shape
Knowing what body shape you are is key to knowing which type of belt will look the best on you. If you’re curvier, try wearing a corset belt to cinch in your waist. If you’re more petite, go for a thin belt to add some interest to your outfit.
Check out these cute boho dresses.
Style
If you’re going for a more dramatic look, pair a low-back dress with a glitter or statement belt to add some glamour and sexiness. On the other hand, if you’re trying to go for something more casual, choose a cotton belt in a fun print.
So now that you know all about the different types of belts and when to wear them, it’s time to start shopping! With so many options available, you’re sure to find the perfect belt for your next dress.
Next up, what is black tie optional?
Here are a few of my top picks to add to your wardrobe.
Related Reading
Ellen believes you can feel beautiful at any age and size. She shares healthy beauty and fashion information geared toward women over 40. She is a direct sales rep for several fashion and beauty businesses.