How to Belt a Blazer
This 2-Second Style Hack Will Make Your Blazer Infinitely More Flattering
As POPSUGAR editors, we independently select and write about stuff we love and think you'll like too. If you buy a product we have recommended, we may receive affiliate commission, which in turn supports our work.
Blazers can often feel like a trip to snoozesville. You know the kind: single-breasted, usually black, navy, or grey, kind of blah (you're getting very sleepy. . .). Though classic and "essential" for work, these versions very easily feel stale after a few too many wears, but what other option is there when a denim jacket or utility anorak doesn't work, at work?
There are also the types of blazers that are having a "moment" (fashion speak for items you've scrolled past a million times on Instagram): big n' boxy fits (which aren't always flattering), super-sized shoulders (which is a bit, uh, bold), and perplexingly sexy cuts (did you know cutout blazers are a thing?!). Not exactly standard for the office and generally the kind of garment that causes quizzical stares when passing through the cubical rows.
Breathing new life into a blazer is hard! But there's a two-second style hack you can try that's not only refreshing, but flattering, too. Are you awake yet? Maybe take a sip a coffee. OK: belting your blazer. Woo-eee! You're jolted.
While you probably reach for a belt to hoist up pants or cinch a flowing dress, it's a genius move to fasten one over your blazer to give it a new look whether you prefer a skinny shape, unique buckle, or textured print. Sure, it's an extra step in the getting ready process, but a belt will add interest to any blazer-centric outfit that feels like it's missing something and enhance your figure at once (because, no, it's not enough to simply button your blazer closed and call it a day).
If you're feeling uncertain about the whole belt-over-a-blazer thing, check out 19 ultra-stylish and easy-to-re-create outfits ahead. You'll quickly realise how simple the concept is and (hopefully) become convinced to try it for yourself. Oh, and one more thing: if you're not stocked on blazers and belts, we put together an edit of under-$50 blazers to shop from the POPSUGAR at Kohl's collection with stylish belts to complement them.
To quote Ciara, "Let me see you one, two step" your next blazer look.
Instead of a simple black belt, look for one with interesting detail to set off a neutral blazer.
A tonal belt with grommets add just enough edge to a workwear look.
For a just-interesting-enough pop, try a clear belt over your favourite blazer.
Never underestimate the impact of black and brown (it's definitely not a faux pas).
A skinny black belt is the perfect cinch over a longer blazer.
Black on black is anything but boring when an oversized buckle in sleek gold is part of the equation.
Sometimes a self-tie belt is all you need to define your shape.
Instead of leather, try a fabric belt for a comfortable cinch.
For simple impact, reach for a classic black belt in a wider size.
A clear belt is a trendy, yet subtle subtle way to cinch your waist (and perfect with a printed blazer).
A medium to wide belt creates a cute peplum effect over a shorter blazer.
An extra-wide or asymmetrical belt adds interest to the most classic blazers.
There's nothing like a multicoloured belt to bring a black blazer to life.
Further proof that a simple black belt is effortlessly flattering.
A thin logo belt or one with metal detailing makes a statement without feeling over the top.
If you're into the western trend, an embossed style is unexpected over a tailored silhouette.
