Fall Fashion '09

Wide belt

Cinching a wide belt around the smallest part of your torso – your natural waist – emphasizes and slims this very feminine zone while accentuating sexy curves.

Thick belts create the most dramatic, waist-narrowing looks since they brace your body in a corset-like fashion. Look for sturdy or stretchy materials such as solid and woven leathers, reinforced layers of satin, and thick, wide elastic bands that can comfortably resist all the bending and sitting you're likely to do over the course of a day.

If you want to stand out, get creative and fashion yourself a belt out of unconventional materials. Belts can be made out of a variety of innovative fabrics and closures. Mix it up by swapping buckles for bows, hooks and snaps, and trade the usual leather wrap-around for stretchy elastics, menswear-inspired cummerbunds, kimono-inspired silky obi sashes, and bands of fabric.

Skinny belts

Skinny belts are a lovely complement to dainty dresses and separates; extra long slender belts look super stylish when wound many times around the waist or hips.

Skinny belts are often fabricated out of barely-there strips of leather, chain links and rope. And because skinny belts are so slim, you can go for a bright splash of color or a shimmering metallic finish without dominating the outfit.

Remember to keep in mind your body's proportions when choosing a belt; an ultra slinky skinny belt might visually add weight to a plus sized woman, whereas a slightly thicker medium width belt will produce a more balanced skinny-belt look.