The Style Report: It's a Cinch

The Ultimate Belt Collection

In my last column, The Military Look, I made reference to following up with how to obtain the “Ultimate Belt Collection"… so grab your latte and read on.

Just like a handbag, boot and shoe collection; I feel very strongly about the belt collection.

A fab belt can transform any look. Take your black leggings and grey cashmere turtle neck, throw on a black wrap sweater with a black or grey riding boot. Tell me what you think is going to give this outfit the punch that it deserves? That camel sweater dress with the black and camel python pump…what are you going to cinch it with?

If you tend to steer away from belts because of a wide waist, have no fear — the best way to minimize the soft spot is to wear the belt above the hips on your back and drape it right around the front hip line loosely. It actually gives the illusion of a smaller waistline… really!

So you ask: Where do I find these must-have belts and what does the belt wardrobe consist of? I am glad you posed this burning question.

Here are the basics:

Black belts with both silver and gold closures and fittings and a Concho would not hurt. Look for an array of textures, widths and styles from conservative to western to wide and funky plus a few solid black ones. Then on to the browns… and please embrace the many shades of brown. Follow the black belt rule for your browns… gold, silver and solid closures, variety of textures, styles, etc.

But how many of each you ask? Please understand that this is a collection, it will develop over time and your wardrobe will start to flourish.

Now you are ready to interject some fun… look for different shades of gold, silver, pewter, taupe, and other colors. Try adding different textures such as croc, python, mesh, leather, suede… it's endless!

Where to buy gets a bit tricky… I always stop into Richards for the basics, Petticoat Lane in Greenwich, Anthropologie in Westport and at nearly every boutique in my travels I tend to snag something unique.

As for my clientele, I tend to have my own resources at outstanding prices. My clients and friends are in awe of my belt collection and the array of designs, colors and designers. If you want to know my little secret belt spot, please feel free to email me or post it in the comment box below.

And here is a BONUS… for those of you who are completely belt challenged and need a bit of help not only with your belts but your look and wardrobing. I will respond to the first four people who leave a comment in the box below the article about their needs; with a personal visit to their home and do a closet review.

Pictured here are some of my treasures:

Look Good
Conquer the World

Lynn Cesaria is a fashion maven, image consultant and personal shopper. Known for her no-nonsense attitude, her unerring eye and her Fashion 911 house calls to her clientele. Lynn has also owned and operated LRC Photography for over 20 years. She is based in Fairfield County but available to transform people worldwide!

For more information contact:
Lynn Cesaria
LRC Image & Styling
Personal Shopping

LynnCesariaStyling.com
Lynn@lynncesaria.com

Photograph by LRC Photography