After a Year of Waist-Up Dressing, The Belt Is Making a Comeback

After spending a year dressing from the waist up for virtual gatherings and meetings, the neglected belt is making its way back into our everyday wardrobes. But this season, the formerly deprioritized accessory is anchoring our reemergence looks. Whether it’s a pair of trousers for a chic return to the office or cutoff shorts perfect for weekend escapades, adding a vintage, woven leather, or designer belt helps to elevate just about any summer outfit.

And your outfit doesn’t need to have belt loops to support the accessory. Recently, Katie Holmes buckled a wide belt over an Ulla Johnson frock, and Janet Mock fastened a laser-cut Alaïa design over a delightful Brunello Cucinelli dress. Both looks proved just how essential the accessory can be.

If you’re in need of a refresher on how to style a belt this season, you’ll find five celebrity-inspired ways to wear the subtle outfit maker below.

Kendall Jenner

Thanks to The Row’s classic designer belt worn here by Kendall Jenner, business casual has never looked better. Follow the style star’s lead and make sure your closet has at least one timeless option in it.

Janet Mock

Lean into summer whites and elevate those neutral dresses by pairing them with a matching belt just like Janet Mock did here with a divine perforated Alaïa band.

Kate Middleton

For a subtle dash of glam, anchor your suits with a textured belt, similar to Kate Middleton’s croc one by Anderson’s.

Sienna Miller

No need to wait for the return of music festivals. Take notes from Sienna Miller and her Isabel Marant belt covered in silvery accents.

Olivia Culpo

Get out of an all-black rut and test out a cognac-colored belt, like Olivia Culpo’s Khaite belt. The unexpected hue will make those T-shirt-and-jeans combos look chic.