ACCESSORIZE: BELT & SCARF ADVICE
The art of accessorizing is powerful, especially when you add belts and scarves because they can completely change the vibe of your outfit. Yes, it's true. Your outfit can be all basics, but you'll still look incredible if you add the right accessories. It's a style trick that everyone from fashion stylists to that well-dressed girl in your English class has mastered. With a few simple tips and an eye for proportions, anyone can learn to accessorize well. The trick is to wear accessories with confidence (in short: don’t over accessorize). If you’re looking for great advice when it comes to stepping up your wardrobe, then you’re in the right place. Prepare to accessorize with undeniable style with hot tips from Macy’s, Your Handbag Destination.
Buckle Up: Belt Buying & Styling Tips
How Do I Choose the Right Belt?
- Pick the right width: thick or thin. When worn on the waist, wide belts work best on women with long torsos because they help your shape look more proportional. Women with short torsos look better in thin belts because they define the waist and don’t completely cover the midsection.
- Find the perfect size. Belt size actually relates to its length. When fastened, it’s ideal for your belt to fit comfortably on the middle hole. If the belt is too long, then the tail will stick out awkwardly. If it’s too short, then it will appear too chunky. Macy’s has belt sizes ranging from small, medium and large to extra large and extra extra large. Macy’s also carries plus size belts including 1X, 2X and 3X.
- Make sure it complements your style. Believe it or not, belts come in a variety of different types. Stock up on an array of styles including casual and dress belts, reversible, stretch, leather, chain and fanny packs.
How Do I Style a Belt?
- Waist belt vs. hip belt—learn the difference. Belts draw the eye to the part of the body they adorn. The difference between a waist belt and a hip belt is exactly what it sounds like: you wear a waist belt on your waist and you wear a hip belt on your hips. In addition, waist belts help emphasize the smallest part of your waist, which can give you the appearance of a slimmer frame. Hip belts can achieve the same by making sure you pair it with a piece of clothing that only allows the front middle section to show.
- Knot long belts at the end. Long belts can be knotted to give your outfit a fresh update. The key is to make sure the belt is pliable so lies flat without excess creasing.
- Match your belt to your shoes…or not. This one is all about preference. Matching your belt to your shoes can instantly make your outfit more polished. On the flip side, it’s totally acceptable to mismatch your shoes and belt, too—think a black belt with brown shoes or vice versa. Have fun with it.
How to Pick the Right Belt for the Right Outfit?
- Style a top with a fanny pack—for a modern take, sling it across the front of your torso.
- Wear a belt with jeans and pants only if belt loops are present. This way, you won’t have to constantly readjust the belt.
- Use a belt to accent a dress and help define a flattering shape. It’s easiest to style a dress with a belt that already has some shape to it.
- Belts work well on high-waisted skirts because they define your waist. Make sure it’s securely fastened so it doesn’t slide around.
- Use a belt to define your shape in coat. If it comes with a belt, then use it. You can add your own as an accent—think a studded belt, chain belt or a belt bag.
Tie Your Look Together: All The Ways to Wear a Scarf
Tie Your Look Together: All The Ways to Wear a Scarf
How Can I Wear a Scarf? Think of fashion scarves as versatile pieces that can be worn many ways:
- Wear one around your neck. Pick one based on the seasons—think thin and lightweight for spring and summer and thick and heavier for fall and winter. You can tie a scarf in many ways including in a loop, knot, bow, braid or twist.
- Turn a scarf into a belt. Weave it through your belt loops, knot it and let the excess hang ever so stylishly.
- Use a scarf as a hair accessory. Short, thin head scarves work best to add something extra to your ponytail or to use as a headband.
- Tie a scarf to the handle of your handbag. Pick a printed or colorful scarf for a pop.
- Wear a large scarf over your shoulders as a shawl. A shawl adds another layer to your look and works great with sleeveless tops or dresses.