Clinch cut

Belts are still the hottest clinchers on the style scene and they definitely make the cut on the accessory team. So, nothing's wrong with letting your seasonal outfit go to fashion 'waist' land. Traditionally, the accessory is worn around the waist but with the many variations, there's room enough to play with style. While belts may hold your outfit together, there is a chance that your best accessory may be your worst. Now it's time to get the cinch on how the clinch can enhance your body.

- Stephanie Lyew

The empire-waist belt: This style covers almost the entire torso below the bust but leaves a bit of space for the female to pull it closer under the bust or ride above the hips. Either way, empire-waist belts draw attention to the waist (similar to a wide belt, with a tailored design).

The corset belt: This is secured around the waist and just under the bust. It places emphasis on supporting the stomach and lifting the bust, thus enhancing cleavage. It creates the most dramatic shape and is great for females who are heavier on top since it maintains and supports the shape of the torso and creates the illusion of an hourglass shape.

The chain belt: It hangs loose at the waist and is also called a low-slung belt. It is not meant to loop through the waists of pants, and so on, but to rest on the hip. When choosing this belt, pay keen attention to the size and shape of the link. Small links are suitable for all body types but large links may crowd an individual who has a small build. The design should enhance the lower half. If you have a wide lower half, allow it to just fall over your shape.

The suspender belt: This has straps over the shoulder and is supported directly under the bust. It offers great back support and the emphasis is mainly on the bust and cleavage. It gives any outfit a perky appearance. It can be short, leaving space for a curved tummy to bulge, or it can be found in a longer style to support the stomach.

The mid-sized leather belt: This should always be worn through the loops on the natural waist of skirts, shorts, pants and so on. It is meant to hold up the bottom half of an outfit but, recently, it's being seen with trench coats and similar dress types. If worn too tightly through loops, it can possibly create a 'muffin top' and strain the pelvic area. Make necessary adjustments, depending on your body type.

Slender/skinny belt: This may be worn on the pelvic bone, just below the waist, directly under the bust or around the waist. It is suitable for all body types, but it is recommended that females with a curved tummy wear them loosely. Another way to wear the slender belt is to double wrap it around the waist (or more times if long enough). However, it creates a muffin-like top so, unless you have a small torso, the skinny belt may not be your best option. Try a mid-sized belt of the same fashion.

Ribbon/sash belt: This has been influenced by Obi sash belts (Japanese ribbon belts that are usually tied around kimonos). It creates an unflattering figure when worn too tightly or too loosely around the waist. It is not meant to hold any outfit to the body - it is merely a sashes. A ribbon belt is thinner than a sash belt but it functions in a similar fashion. Both make cute additions if tied properly.

Belts courtesy of Avien Thomas of Jars Fashion. The store is in the process of being relocated from Orchid to Village Plaza but you may email
jarsfashion@hotmail.com or call 1-876-388-6289.