As a curvy goddess, you know the power of a well-styled outfit to boost your confidence and make you feel like a million bucks. One accessory that can take your dress game to new levels? The humble belt.
This versatile piece has the ability to cinch your waist, add shape, and give any dress an instant dose of polish. But navigating the world of belts with dresses for a plus size figure can feel daunting. Fear not, gorgeous! This guide is here to show you exactly how to rock a belt and flaunt those fierce curves.
Why Belts Are a Curvy Girl’s Best Friend
Wearing a belt as a curvy fashionista is a total game-changer. Unlike the outdated idea that belts are just for holding up pants, these accessories are now embraced as fashion enhancers and waist cinchers that can:
Accentuate your waistline: Creating a beautifully defined hourglass shape is easy with a belt that hits at your natural waist. Instantly uplevel any dress by highlighting those luscious curves.
Add shape to shapeless styles: Let’s be real, some dresses (we’re looking at you, loose, flowy, and relaxed fit numbers) can make you feel like a shapeless sack. Enter the belt, which gives these shapeless dresses some much-needed waist definition.
Elevate any outfit: From a casual day dress to an LBD for date night, a belt instantly uplevels the whole look with a pulled-together, sophisticated vibe. It’s the polish every stylish curvy babe needs.
Finding the Perfect Belt for Your Body Shape
With so many plus size belt options out there, it’s key to choose styles that will be most flattering for your figure. Here are some tips:
Pear Shape: You’ll want to balance out your wider hips and draw the eye upward with a wide obi-style belt or one with some detailing like grommets or a buckle. Avoid anything too thin or flimsy.
Apple Shape: Elongate your figure by looking for narrow to mid-width belts without too much detailing or weight around the middle. Fabric tie belts in a contrasting shade can also help define the waist.
Hourglass: Lucky you, almost any belt style is fair game. Curve-hugging wide obi belts or eye-catching numbers with fun prints or embellishments will accentuate those killer curves.
No matter your shape, look for sturdy belts that won’t bend or twist when wrapped around your waist. And make sure it hits at your natural waistline, not below your belly area.
Dressing for Your Curves
Not all dresses are created equal when it comes to belting. You’ll want to stick to structured, flow-y silhouettes that allow you to nip in the waist with a belt without the dress appearing stretched or strained. Here are some winner dress picks for curvy belt-wearing:
A-line dresses: The slight flare over the tummy and hips gives you room to define your waist comfortably with a belt.
Wrap dresses: With their ingenious cross-over waist design, wrap dresses are practically made to be cinched with a fierce belt.
Shirt dresses: The buttons down the front allow you to adjust the fit across the chest and waist before adding a belt for shaping.
Fit-and-flare dresses: Nipped at the natural waistline and relaxed through the hips and thighs, this silhouette highlights an hourglass shape beautifully when belted.
Try to avoid dresses that are too bodycon or clingy, as these can look strained and unflattering when belted. Remember, the goal is to flaunt your curves, not suffocate them!
Styling a Belt with a Plus Size Dress
Now that you’ve got the basics of flattering dress and belt styles down, let’s dive into some specific tips for rocking this look like the style star you are:
Cinching Your Waist
Knowing where to position a belt on your waistline is key. The goal is to cinch that belt right at the smallest part of your waist, creating an hourglass definition. Here’s how:
Find your natural waistline: It’s that tiny indentation above your belly button and below your rib cage. Bend to the side to feel where it dips inward most.
Start the belt there: Loop the belt around so the middle hits at your natural waistline. If it feels too high or low, make adjustments.
Tilt it back ever so slightly: By tilting the belt a tiny bit toward your back, you’ll further accentuate the curve of your waist.
Tighten or tie it: For belts with buckles, tighten it so it gently hugs your waistline without digging in. For tie belts, tie them snugly but with enough room to slip a finger underneath.
Check from all angles: Give yourself a twirl and check how the belt defines your shape from the front, side, and back views before heading out.
Elongating Your Figure
In addition to waist definition, curvy ladies often want to create a long, lean line with their outfits. Luckily, belts can assist with this too:
Look for dresses with vertical details: Shirt dresses with rows of buttons or color-blocking down the front will elongate your figure when paired with a belt at the waistline.
Try a half-tuck: Tuck just the front of a flowy top into a high-waisted skirt or trousers, belt at your natural waist and let the back hang loose. This creates the illusion of a continuous line.
Belt at your slimmest point: Whether that’s your natural waist, just below your bust, or at the high hip area, belting at your narrowest point helps elongate.
Match belt to shoes: Keeping the colors the same creates one continuous line of color from head to toe.
Adding Proportion
When you’ve got luscious curves, using a belt to define that Coke bottle shape can create balanced, flattering proportions. Look for pieces that’ll give you that covetable “equal halves” hourglass ratio:
Top Half:
Wrap or surplice neckline tops and dresses to slightly minimize a fuller bust
Jackets or cardigans tailored at the waist
Bottom Half:
Flowy A-line or pleated skirts to balance out wider hips
Read this blog:
How Many Newborn Outfits Do You Need?
Dark-wash bootcut jeans to elongate
Then cinch your waist with a fashionable belt, creating balanced volume on top and bottom while highlighting that tiny middle.
Best Belt and Dress Pairings
Now that you’re a belt-tying pro, it’s time for some stylish real-life looks. Here are some of the most flattering plus size belt and dress combos to try:
Wide Patent Belt + Wrap Dress
There’s just something so sleek and powerful about pairing a curve-hugging faux wrap dress with a wide, statement belt in slick patent leather or vegan leather. Look for a belt in a contrasting color like red, cobalt, or even a snakeskin print to really make it pop against the dress.
Embellished Belt + A-Line Dress
Girly A-line dresses with floral prints or feminine ruffles at the sleeves instantly get a modern, eye-catching twist with a belt covered in studs, rhinestones or other embellishments. Look for styles that angle across the hips to accentuate your gorgeous shape.
Chain Belt + Shirt Dress
The inherent casualness of a classic shirt dress gets an instant dose of edginess with the addition of a chain or metal belt. Half-tuck the dress front, add a leather jacket or moto boots, and you’ve got the perfect blend of refinement and attitude.
D-Ring Belt + Maxi Dress
Nothing ballasts the breezy style of a maxi dress quite like a substantial belt featuring D-ring accents or a chic double ring design. Look for one with enough weight to provide shaping without crushing the floaty feeling of the long, lightweight fabric.
Skinny Stretch Belt + Smock Dress
Got a smock or babydoll mini dress that feels a bit too tent-like and shapeless? A simple stretchy skinny belt pulled tight at your natural waistline creates instant definition.
Obi Sash Belt + Blazer Dress
For a night out look that’s both polished and sexy, an obi-style wide sash belt is a sublime pairing with a sleek blazer dress. Look for luxe fabrics like satin or jacquard in a gorgeous jewel tone or print. Tie it into a chic knot at the waistline for an haute couture feel.
Accessorizing Your Belted Dress
Once you’ve found your dream dress and belt combo, it’s time to pull the whole outfit together with the perfect accents:
Shoes: Strappy heeled sandals elongate those legs and complement flirtier styles. For a sleeker look, try pointy-toe pumps or even over-the-knee boots. Walkable block heels are an everyday option as well.
Jackets: A tailored blazer or cropped jacket with three-quarter sleeves makes the belted look more office and daytime-appropriate. In cooler weather, drape a long wool coat or robe coat over your shoulders.
Jewelry: Dainty layered necklaces are an elegant accompaniment to the waist-defining belt. Or go bolder with an eye-catching statement necklace. Complement with some sparkly studs or a chic cuff bracelet.
Handbags: A petite top-handle bag or crossbody purse in a complementary hue is ideal for balancing out your proportions. Clutches are another chic option for evening-out.
Outerwear: For an on-trend layered look, belt your dress first, then add a sleek trenchcoat, tie-waist duster or open-front long vest overtop.
Pro Tips for Wearing Belts as a Curvy Fashionista
To ensure you always look and feel amazing in your dress and belt ensembles, keep these final expert-approved tips in mind:
Seek Out Inspiration
One of the best ways to build your confidence in rocking belts? Immerse yourself in inspiration from fellow curvy fashion influencers. Follow plus size bloggers and brands on Instagram, save looks you love to a Pinterest board, screenshot outfits for future reference. With so many gorgeous gals beltings dresses these days, you’re sure to find looks to try.
Don’t Pull Your Belt Too Tight
While a dose of shaping is great, you never want your belt to be so tight that it’s uncomfortable, restricts your breathing, or leaves angry red marks on your skin. The goal is a gently defined waistline, not a prison. Leave a little room and make sure you can fit two fingers between the belt and your body.
You’re a Big Girl Now, Tuck Your Shirt In
One of the most common (and unflattering) styling mistakes when wearing a dress with a belt? Not tucking in the top completely. This sloppy look instantly downgrades your ensemble. For a polished, put-together aesthetic, fully tuck your top into your dress before adding the belt.
Customize Your Belts
If you can’t find belts in your size or have a favorite dress without belt loops or a matching tie, get creative. Add extra holes to a too-small belt using a grommet punch. Sew inexpensive D-ring sliders onto ribbons or long fabric strips. Use a length of metallic cord or chain and knot at your ideal length. With some simple DIY, you can make any belt work.
Also read:
How To Train Your Dragon Hiccup Outfit?
Tips for Belt Wearing:
a. Not too tight, not too loose: That Goldilocks sweet spot gives the most flattering look.
b. Opt for structured dresses: Flowy, drapey fabrics lend themselves best to belting.
c. Make a belt your best friend: From enhancing your shape to jazzing up a basic look, belts are so versatile.
d. Choose a V-neck over a round one: V-necklines help elongate your torso when belted.
e. Pick the right shoes: Footwear that elongates the leg line balances your belted look.
No matter your size, personal style or occasion, a fabulous belt can truly pull together and elevate any dress. So, channel that unstoppable curvy confidence, gorgeous! With these tips, you’re ready to wrap yourself up and let your flawless hourglass figure shine.
Frequently asked questions
How to wear a belt with a fat tummy?
To wear a belt with a fat tummy, opt for wider belts that sit comfortably on the waist rather than the stomach. Avoid overly tight belts and choose outfits that complement your shape for a flattering look.
How to pair a belt with a dress?
To pair a belt with a dress, choose a belt that complements the dress’s color and style, and adjust the placement based on your body shape for a flattering look. Experimenting with different belt widths and styles can also help you find the perfect match for your outfit.
How to style a loose dress with a belt?
To style a loose dress with a belt, choose a belt that cinches at your natural waist to create definition. Pair it with heels or boots to balance the relaxed fit of the dress.
How to wear a belt if you have a belly female?
For a flattering look with a belly, opt for wider belts worn slightly above your natural waistline to create a slimming effect. Avoid tight belts and choose dresses or tops that flow smoothly over your midsection for a comfortable and stylish appearance.
Which belt is best for belly fat?
A wide belt with a firm structure and a slightly stretchy material is best for belly fat, as it helps to smooth and define the waist without feeling too tight. Avoid very thin belts or belts with a lot of embellishments around the midsection.
Do waist belts help flatten stomach?
Waist belts can create the illusion of a flatter stomach by defining the waist and drawing attention away from the midsection. For a truly flat stomach, a combination of proper diet, exercise and possibly targeted core workouts would be more effective.
Can belt reduce belly fat?
Belts cannot directly reduce belly fat. They are primarily used for fashion purposes and to cinch clothing rather than as a weight loss tool.
Conclusion
At the end of the day, the most important thing when rocking belts with dresses as a plus size beauty is to do it with confidence. Don’t be afraid to experiment with different belt styles, dress silhouettes, and accessory pairings. Have fun playing with proportions to highlight your amazing curves. Step outside your comfort zone and try bolder belts in vibrant hues or embellished styles.
The key is choosing pieces that make you feel empowered, chic and absolutely stunning. With these tips in your stylish arsenal, you can easily transform any dress into a sleek, shape-accentuating look using just the right belt. Embrace those luscious proportions and serve utter fabulousness, girl! When you feel great in your skin, it shows through in your outfit’s radiance.
