Wide belts: The unexpected noughties trend making a comeback

From pink decorative accessories for your waist to black ring straps, here's how to look your best this winter

Sarah Jones
Friday 19 January 2018 15:02 GMT
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This season has seen a range of new styles emerge on the catwalk
This season has seen a range of new styles emerge on the catwalk (Getty)

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From slogan tees, to kitten heels and mum jeans, fashion is chock-full of 90s trends right now.

But, just when you thought you’d had your fill of retro revivals another questionable item has risen from its sartorial grave.

Enter, the wild belt.

Wide belts have seen an increase in popularity (Getty)
Wide belts have seen an increase in popularity (Getty) (AFP/Getty Images)

While its very name might conjure nightmarish memories of misjudged outfits from the early noughties – yes, we’re referring to those studded circle belts – like it or not, broad buckles are the way to go.

But, given the fashion world’s recent fixation with the corset belt, we’re not necessarily surprised.

A trend that salvaged the controversial garment from the depths of control and restriction, the corset belt made way for designers to experiment with the female form, which combined with a thirst for all things feminism meant that this season all eyes were on the waist.

A clever way to update your winter wardrobe fashion game, designers slimmed down bulky layers like chunky knits and coats using the waist-defining accessory.

At Adam Selman, black ring belts were layered over denim trench coats and used as a cunning tool for tempering the breadth of wide-legged trousers.


The accessories are available from a variety of retailers including Anderson’s, Woven Leather Waist Belt, £220, (Net-a-Porter)

 The accessories are available from a variety of retailers including Anderson’s, Woven Leather Waist Belt, £220, (Net-a-Porter)

Meanwhile, Isabel Marant went full-on Eighties with big shoulder action. Here, shearling trimmed jackets came nipped at the waist with wide leather belts, while a bohemian flavour saw them cinch in plisse frocks paired with over-the-knee boots.

Considering the majority of us haven’t worn a wide belt since the early 2000s, it’s only natural to feel unsure about its gallant return but, as the runway proves, they’re actually super-wearable.


Waist belts will give your look a directional edge such as this Alaia, Vienne Appliqued Laser-Cut Leather Waist Belt, £950, (Net-a-Porter)

 Waist belts will give your look a directional edge such as this Alaia, Vienne Appliqued Laser-Cut Leather Waist Belt, £950, (Net-a-Porter)

Our favourite way to wear them? Taking your inspiration from Isabel Marant and throw it over your much-loved floral mid-length dress and boots.

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