The Top Three Ways Fashion People Are Wearing Belts Right Now
A moment on the hips
By Bianca Licina | 12th January 2026If you don’t have something hanging from your hips, what are you even doing?
No doubt the hottest trend of the summer, belts are swinging, dangling, and flirting with the hips of fashion folks everywhere. Acting more like necklaces than functional waist cinchers, they’ve officially become statement accessories, and we’re admittedly accumulating quite the collection.
Here are the three belt trends you’ll want to wrap yourself in this summer and our top picks.
Thick & Chunky
With the ’80s maximalist revival going strong, chunky belts have returned in a major way: thick leather, oversized buckles, and bold silhouettes. But this season, the fashion community has rewritten the rules. Pair them unexpectedly with floaty dresses and let them sit low on the hips – suddenly, the power belt isn’t just a statement, it’s playful. It says you’re fashionable and have your sh*t together, all at once.
Beaded
Think of beaded belts as pendant necklaces for your waist – the quirky, delicate sibling you didn’t know you needed. Layer them over silk slips, blue denim, or even your swimmers; their whimsical charm adds subtle texture and a touch of fun to every look. Our money? These aren’t going anywhere anytime soon.
Rope
If you’d told us rope belts were a thing, we might’ve raised an eyebrow. But here we are, fully on board. Leather or tasselled, rope belts bring effortless oomph to simple outfits. Not a beaded-girl type? This soft, tactile accessory is the perfect alternative, being functional, stylish, and effortlessly cool.
Imagery: @noahthelabel, @becandbridge, @thebalitailor
