This month's must-have accessories
The 50s-style silhouette came slinking back into fashion a couple of seasons ago - with pinched-in waists to highlight womanly curves. It's a look that's still near the top of the style agenda for every discerning fashionista. But if you shudder at the mere thought of drawing attention to your tummy, get inspired by this season's ultra-fabulous belts.
No longer merely functional, belts have turned into a must-have style statement in their own right. The latest crop of luxe belts in soft leather, metallics and suedes do so much more than hold up your jeans: they can lift an outfit out of the ordinary and turn a casual look into easy elegance.
Top designers have been tripping over themselves to produce this season's definitive, go-with-everything belt. Prada's leather offering is all about the buckle, embellished with glittering diamanté. J&M Davidson pairs tan leather with small gold studs. And Louis Vuitton keeps things simple with a cute round clasp.
Needless to say, the price tags are scarily high for these designer pieces. But there are plenty of really imaginative belts out there for a fraction of the cost.
Some examples? Launching this month, Isabella Oliver 365's ready-to-wear collection features a simply gorgeous reversible silk wrap belt. Wrap it around a loose-fitting frock to create a dramatic waistline, or team with relaxed tailored pieces for a glamorous blast of colour. Priced at £40 each; from www.isabellaoliver.com.
We've also found ourselves suitably enchanted by Mina's big butterfly belts in red and black (£45; www.minauk.com) and divine nymph buckle belts (£49). They're perfect for dressing up a plain frock or top for the evening - very glamorous without being OTT.
And finally, for a super-pretty, feminine look, we adore the current crop of bow-embellished belts - as seen on trail-blazing stars such as Anne Hathaway and Girls Aloud. You can pick them up in just about high street fashion store, then pair with a jewel-coloured frock to ensure you look pretty as a picture.
