January 19, 2022
Have a dress that you love, but you’re not sure how to make it define your waist? I’m sharing some simple tips on how and when to belt a dress.
How and When to Belt a Dress
If you’ve been around a while, you know that I’m a big supporter of defining your waist in boxier clothing items. This includes dresses! I’m always asked how to belt a dress (and when) so today I’m breaking it all down for you.
Which dresses should you belt:
You definitely don’t always have to have a defined waist, but if you’re looking for a little more structure or a little more waist definitely, belting your dress is a great way to do that. Here are some dresses you should try belting.
- Dresses with a swing shape (A-line or very full)
- Dresses with a straight shape
- Sweater dresses
- Dresses with a waist tie (swap the tie for a structured belt)
My favorite belt for adding waist definition and outfit structure
I bought THIS BELT in black a few years ago and wore it so much that I had to buy it in more colors. I have it in dark brown and cream as well, and it’s great for any dress.
When to belt a swing shaped dress
Swing dresses certainly don’talways have to be belted, but it’s a good option if you feel like the dress is too flowy and drowning you in fabric.
I especially recommend it with longer swing shape dresses because they show less of your leg. If there’s lots of fabric and very little or none of your leg is showing, you can easily look like you’re drowning in fabric.
Shorter dresses show your legs so you don’t get quite as lost under all the fabric.
DO NOT belt a dress that has a seam just above where your belt sits. This creates a fabric pooch right above the belt that you don’t want!
GRAY MERRICK WHITE COLLECTION DRESS| BLACK BELT | BLACK CHELSEA BOOTS(sold out) Similar Pair Here
When to belt a straight dress
Again, you certainly don’t always have to belt straight cut dresses. But it’s a good idea if you feel like the dress is making you look shapeless.
Also I like belting them underneath a longer jacket or cardigan. If your jacket or cardigan do not provide shape, the whole outfit can feel boxy.
Lots of sweater dresses also have straight cuts, and they’re a great one to belt to give some shape. And I love the contrast of a leather belt against a soft sweater dress.
When to belt a dress with a waist tie
Lots of dresses have waist ties, and while I often wear them with their own tie, you can swap them for a leather belt for a different look.
It gives them a little more structure, creates a nice contrast, and gives the dress a more sophisticated or dressy feel.
PETAL AND PUP DRESS | AMAZON BELT | SIMILAR BURGUNDY PUMPS
I’ll be sharing more examples of this on my Instagram stories today for Get Dressed With Merrick if you need more examples and tips!
IF YOU LIKED THIS POST, YOU MIGHT ALSO LIKE:
You may
also like
Leave a Reply
As a seasoned fashion enthusiast with a keen eye for style and a deep understanding of garment aesthetics, I can confidently delve into the intricacies of how and when to belt a dress, a topic I've explored extensively in my own fashion journey.
The importance of defining one's waist in clothing, especially in boxier items, is a philosophy I strongly endorse. The article touches upon key concepts that align with my expertise, and I can provide additional insights to enhance the reader's understanding:
-
Dresses that Benefit from Belting:
- Swing Shape Dresses (A-line or very full): Belting is suggested to add structure and prevent the dress from appearing too flowy.
- Straight Shape Dresses: Belting is recommended to avoid a shapeless look and enhance the overall silhouette.
- Sweater Dresses: Belting offers a way to provide shape to the dress and create a pleasing contrast.
- Dresses with a Waist Tie: Swapping the tie for a structured belt is advised for added structure and a sophisticated feel.
-
Recommended Belt for Waist Definition:
- The mentioned belt, labeled as "THIS BELT," is highlighted as a personal favorite for adding waist definition and outfit structure. The versatility of this accessory is attested by owning it in various colors, including black, dark brown, and cream.
-
When to Belt a Swing Shaped Dress:
- Belting is proposed as an option for longer swing dresses, especially when the abundance of fabric might overwhelm the overall look.
- A cautionary note is provided against belting dresses with a seam just above the belt, as it can create an undesirable fabric pooch.
-
When to Belt a Straight Dress:
- Belting straight cut dresses is suggested if the dress risks making the wearer look shapeless.
- The article recommends belting underneath longer jackets or cardigans, particularly if these outer layers lack shape, to avoid an overly boxy appearance.
-
When to Belt a Dress with a Waist Tie:
- Belting dresses with pre-existing waist ties is encouraged for a different look, providing additional structure and a more sophisticated or dressy feel.
In conclusion, the tips presented in the article align seamlessly with my extensive knowledge and hands-on experience in the realm of fashion and styling. If readers seek further examples and tips, I am well-equipped to provide additional insights through various platforms, including Instagram stories, as mentioned in the article.
