If you're going to spend money on accessories this summer, make sure you don't overlook the often-underestimated belt. Aside from jewelry, belts are one of the easiest, least expensive ways to add texture and spunk to your summer wardrobe. This is especially true for tall women who may feel uncomfortable wearing other bold accessories. When purchasing belts this summer, pick up a few thin, colorful belts, a neutral-colored belt with a western or country style and at least one wider belt of your choice. This assortment will enable you to mix, match and style almost any wardrobe to look fresh this summer season.
1. Add a Pop of Color to a Demure Dress
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During the summer months you're supposed to let your colors shine with bright clothing in shades of blue, yellow, tangerine and red. When an event calls for a more demure or staid look, that shouldn't preclude you from jazzing things up with a pop of bright color. Try wearing a thin, bright belt in a color complimentary to your dress or pantsuit. Choose a belt with "dressier" details like a bow closure, patent finish or rhinestone buckle. Keep your other accessories understated to help keep your look clean and simple.
2. Break Up a Bold Print
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Tall women have a hard time wearing bold prints because of the "I look like a curtain" effect, but when bold prints are in, tall women need to find work-arounds for this common problem. One of the best ways to make bold prints work is to simply break up the print with an expanse of solid color. While you can do this with cardigans, jackets or blazers, those options are likely to be too hot for summer attire. Instead, cinch a wide, solid-colored belt around the narrowest part of your waist. This will break up the pattern while highlighting your figure - a flattering and easy option for women of all shapes and sizes.
3. Double Up to Add Interest
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When you're not wearing bright colors during the summer, chances are you're choosing muted, neutral tones to help reflect light and diminish daytime heat. While this is a great plan for your personal comfort, sometimes these toned-down looks end up seeming drab. For a simple solution, tie two or three thin belts around your waist, staggering the belt buckles so that they aren't perfectly centered. When it comes to belt choice, the sky's the limit - bright colors, western styles or animal print patterns all make good options - just make sure you choose a belt that contrasts nicely with your clothing.
4. Dress Down a Glitzy Frock
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Many summer events embody a casual/cool vibe that requires a more laid back look. Rather than ditching your skirts and cocktail dresses for short black shorts and sleeveless tees, try using a belt to dress down a glitzy frock. Start by choosing a dress clearly cut out for a fancier event (telltale signs include sequins, silk, satin or other shiny touches), then pick out a belt clearly cut out for a day on the ranch (telltale signs include braided or stamped leather, big silver buckles or turquoise details). Loosely tie the belt around your waist so it draws attention to your middle, but doesn't pull too tight. The resulting look is charmingly cool and refreshingly eclectic.