It's basically my job to study what stylish women from all around the world are wearing, and lately I've had my eye on the style in capitals like Milan, Paris, and Copenhagen. If there's one thing I've learned in my deep dives, it's that belts are back and bigger than ever, something the most recent runways have confirmed, too. People in Europe are styling their belts in the chicest ways right now, and their looks are an endless wealth of inspiration. They're threading them through the loops of their trousers and jeans and also piling on the belts in places you wouldn't even expect—something we've been referring to as "unnecessary belts"—to make all of their outfits a lot more interesting.
While I'll admit to having dubbed them as a "boring" piece in the past, I'm vowing to reset my focus on the accessory because based on the looks you're about to see here, they hold so much power in transforming an outfit. Since I'm working on building out my belt collection, I'm keeping my budget under $100 and loading up on many options. I'll be swapping between silver and gold hardware, rotating between thick and thin, and picking colors you really just wouldn't expect—just wait until you see this belt collection of mine. Here are the styles that I'm currently considering.
How Europeans are styling belts:
Combining cream and brown tones always looks so elevated and expensive. The way to style it? By breaking up a monochromatic looks with brown accessories, and specifically, with a brown belt.
We have Saint Laurent to thank for the ridiculously chic combination of a pencil skirt and oversize blazer, but the addition of a belt just takes the whole thing up a notch. I can't imagine this ensemble without it. It just ties the whole look together.
Studded belts have been trending all year, and they're especially useful at taking an otherwise simple outfit and making it feel special. Even a casual tank-and-trousers look feels trend-forward and cool with the addition of a tough belt.
My ideal way of wearing an unnecessary belt lately has been on top of a skirt that doesn't require one. I love how it adds an extra cinch at the waist and can make an item you've worn over and over feel brand-new.
Belts with sleek hardware buckles are especially hot right now, and they hold a lot of power in making just about anything—even a button-down shirt and jeans—look extremely elevated.
One of the simplest outfits in existence is a T-shirt and jeans, but it suddenly feels polished and pulled together when you add a classic leather belt. A black style takes center stage when you wear it to break up a monochromatic palette.
Shop the best affordable belts:
It's all in the name: It doesn't get any more classic than this.
This color is everything to me.
This hardware is so cool.
Red-hot.
This hardware is reminds me of a similar Saint Laurent style.
I found this in H&M's premium-quality section, so I know it will look top-notch IRL.
Such a good alt to Khaite's viral studded style.
This buckle, though.
The only print that matters right now.
Sleek and extremely chic.
Our editors rave about this Madewell belt and own it in several colors.
I love the idea of using a cord belt to add interest over a blazer or coat.
Wrap this over your pants or skirts like the model did.
The easiest way to tap into the suede trend, IMO.
This with cream-toned trousers would be perfection.
As pretty as jewelry.
Double-wrapped belts are set to be a big 2025 theme.
Meet your new everyday style.
Simple but effective.
A belt and a styling idea to match.
The buckle shape makes it a touch more elevated.
-
The Holiday Accessories Edit: 6 It Buys Defining the SeasonFrom belts to bags.
-
20 Stylish and Effective Accessories That Offer Sweet Relief for Sound-Sensitive Fashion PeopleCalming, efficient, and oh so chic? Yes, please.
-
The Affordable Trend New Yorkers Will Wear Instead of Suede This WinterChic and cheerful.
-
J.Lo Wore the Elegant Trend That Makes Every Outfit Look Like It Came From an Audrey Hepburn MovieFrom Charade to Breakfast at Tiffany's.
-
Meet This Holiday Season's Most Covetable AccessoriesYes, this is a gifting hint.
-
From Miu Miu Model to Gabbriette Coded: 20 Eyeglasses That Are *Actually* ChicThese picks are 20/20.
-
I Have $300 and a Goal of Looking Rich—42 Fall Accessories That Fit All My NeedsAdd instant polish.
-
I'm Manifesting Rich Vibes for Fall—31 Expensive-Looking Nordstrom Sale Finds That Fit the BillDon't sleep on these under-$150 gems.
