“how do I pull off the skinny-belt look?”

dear apricot,

I often see skinny belts used to create shape in an outfit. Since I’m petite (size 0, 5′1″), I feel like I should do this. But how? Where do I get these belts? And how do I wear them?

— Ashley, from Our Little Apartment.

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Hi Ashley!

Skinny belts are pretty much universal, & are a lot easier to pull off than a “fat” belt. It’s because they’re small, delicate, & lightweight that you can pair them with almost anything. In a way, a skinny belt is more of an accent piece than an actual belt to keep your trousers from falling down. But this isn’t to say you can’t wear a skinny belt as a regular belt; you can! But it’s a lot more functional in other ways, like cinching your waist (sort of like a sash).

(for product information, click here.)

One simple way to incorporate a skinny belt into your wardrobe is by taking an oversized button-up shirt — perhaps one that your husband doesn’t wear — & wear it as a dress with tights. Then, use the skinny belt to cinch your waist & create a lovely silhouette. It’s a simple & comfortable outfit that takes little effort & almost anyone can pull it off. If your husband’s shirt feels too baggy, try going to the men’s section at your favorite store (Target, for example) & get a small or extra small button-up shirt. It has the same effect but it won’t be quite as large.

Another way to wear a skinny belt: find a high-waisted tulip skirt (as shown above), tuck in your favorite t-shirt, & wrap the skinny belt around the waist of the skirt. Instant chic, yet comfortable. (& yes, high-waisted skirts can work perfectly for your petite frame. Just make sure that the hem of the skirt rests above — or right at — your knees. Anything below your knees will seemingly cut off your legs, making you appear shorter than what you really are. So show off those legs!)

Also, if you have a dress that needs sprucing up, put a skinny belt right below your bustline. It’s the best way to give an old dress a cheap, but effective, makeover. & this can work with any dress: summer, cocktail, floral. Just use your imagination & play around with the style & the different kind of shapes you can create.

& if you’re still stumped as to how you can wear a skinny belt, buy pieces that come with a skinny belt. It’s the easiest way to incorporate the trend into your wardrobe. Plus, you get a free belt!

You can usually find skinny belts anywhere: Target, Forever21, H&M, Wal-Mart; anywhere where belts are sold. & they don’t necessarily have to be plain black! Find a belt with unique features: studs, sequins, a fancy buckle, intricate braiding. The best way to think of a skinny belt is that it’s a bracelet for your waist.

I hope this helps!

— apricot.

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