A Statement Belt Is the Viral Accessory That Will Transform Your Wardrobe

Despite their ability to pull a look together, accessories can sometimes be an afterthought. While shoes and bags get splashy, seasonal updates, belts are often — criminally! — left out of the discussion. As such, we were pleasantly surprised when statement belts started trending, making appearances on fall/winter fashion week runways, and eventually dominating our TikTok feeds. 

The return of the statement belt began in the same place that the infamous Y2K peplum top made its 2023 reappearance: on the runway. Thick, waist-cinching statement belts were spotted on looks at Max Mara, Tod's, and Anteprima.

On the Max Mara runway, statement belts were styled over everything from jumpsuits to sweaters and strapless tops. At Anteprima and Tod's, belts were worn over outerwear, a look we’ll definitely be copy-and-pasting onto our cold weather ‘fits this winter and fall. 

At Chanel, models made a different fashion statement with multi-looped chain belts worn over dresses, skirts, and trousers. Hermès took a slightly different approach, accessorizing looks with hybrid leather-chain details, while the belts at Weinsanto featured playful charms.

For Mithridate and Emelie Svensson, the focus was on hardware, specifically creative, oversized buckles. But while statement belts received the runway stamp of approval, it truly takes a village to bring a trend to life.

Right before festival season, Gen Z breathed new life into statement belts, specifically, the chain belt trend. (We regret to inform you the generation has also become aware of low-rise statement belts. Thoughts and prayers.)

Thanks to TikTok's impeccable timing, celebs and influencers at Coachella were spotted sporting decorative chain belts as part of their flashy festival ensembles. From '70s glam-inspired looks to crystal fringe, statements were made.

Backed by luxury designers and endorsed by TikTok, statement belts are set to make a major comeback this fall. In the meantime, here are six ways to bring each of this year’s best belt styles out of the archives and into your ‘fit rotation.

Over a Coat

Shop Similar: Streets Ahead Bonbon Belt, $395.
Add some glamour to a trench or pea coat by wearing a statement belt over the top. Because a thick coat adds quite a bit of bulk, look for a belt several sizes up or, better yet, one with some stretch.

Spice Up a Suit Set

Shop Similar: Michael Kors Angelina Belt, $525.
A statement belt with a flashy, over-the-top buckle is a great accessory for anyone who wants to get in on the oversized separates trend without getting lost inside an oversized blazer.

Cinch a Summer Dress

Shop Similar: Kate Cate Chainy Belt, $326.
Wearing a thick statement belt is a great way to add structure to an easy, breezy summer dress. Don't stress too much about placement. Instead, play with volume and, when in doubt, opt for comfort.

Go for a Throwback Approach

Shop Similar: Ramy Brook Drea Chain Belt, $145.
For this Y2K take on styling a chain belt, skip the belt loops. Instead, focus on wrapping the belt as many times as is comfortable and keep any and all charms or embellishments facing forward.

Add Shine to a Maxi Dress

Shop Similar: Anthropologie Resin Hoop Chain Belt, $80.
Spice up a maxi dress by adding one or more chain belts at your waist or hips, and bonus points if its within the same color palette.

Tie In Other Accessories

Shop Similar: Streets Ahead Mixed Shell Chain Belt, $175.
Give a jumpsuit an elevated makeover by wearing a chain belt at your waist and layering on lots of gold jewelry to match.