Features: Magazine | Literary Review | Life | Metro Plus | Open Page | Education Plus | Book Review | Business | SciTech | Friday Review | Young World | Property Plus | Quest | Folio |

It's a hold-up!

Here are some truly gripping fashion ideas

STYLE STATEMENT Belts now do more than a fastening job

A simple black leather belt would have done the job of holding a loose pair of trousers in place. But that was years ago. Now the plain belt needs to do more than just a fastening job: it should make a fashion statement. From being mere necessities, belts have come a long way. With an important task of turning attention away from far-from-perfect midriffs, belts have become innovative. The conventional girdle is now making way for a wide variety..

Large buckled belts are ornate. Their glint contrasts with the sombre tones of the leather.Rows of hanging silver and stone-studded chains on a leather belt give a baroque feel.

Rich jewel tones, polished silver details and leather trims give a retro edge. Shiny metal beaded belts add variety to your wardrobe. Deco bead details on a belt worn over casual denims or formal eveningwear look glamorous. Vibrant belts with fine embroidery, stones and sequins lend an ethnic touch. . So we have bandhini and phulkari belts with ari, zardosi and meenakari work. If you are lucky, you can pick them off the rack at a bargain.

There are also belts inspired by the wild — with zebra, leopard and cheetah prints. All styles come together with the occasional fantasy touch of a stirrup buckle or brass rivets.

This season, don't be caught wearing a thin belt as fashion gurus have ruled out the slender look. For the spring look, there's plenty of colour, shimmering gold and stones. Multi buttonholes and a metal buckle in the centre add character to your attire.

JESSINA ABOOBACKER

Printer friendly page  
Send this article to Friends by E-Mail