Statement Belts Are Spring 2024's Biggest Accessory Trend

You may recall a time in the Y2K yesteryear when statement belts were the thing. Pretty much everyone owned a chunky belt (usually paired with low-rise jeans, which made their way back in 2023, by the way), from high profile celebrities to teenagers at your local mall. Whether decorated with chains, studs, or massive buckles, statement belts were the ultimate accessory. 

We have good news if you've been missing those days. Thanks to resurgence of nostalgic Y2K revival fashion, the statement belt has rolled its way back into our 2024 wardrobes — just in time for spring. We've already seen some of the biggest stars on the planet embrace this throwback. Dua Lipa actually wrapped a statement belt around her chest at the 20243 Women in Entertainment Gala, proving once again why she's a total fashion queen. On the other end of the spectrum, we've also seen none other than the ever stylish Kate Middleton get in on the trend by wearing a pearl adorned belt while conducting her royal duties. And if Lipa and Middleton are on board, then how on Earth could we not be?

A statement belt work around the waist is a great way to cinch in your middle and make a style statement at the same time. A rope belt over a sweater dress is a solid way to get this effect, as it can also help to highlight or create the illusion of an hourglass figure. Not only will it add a little glamour (something metallic in particular will do that and bring a little shine), but it will really elevate what could otherwise be a pretty boxy and basic ensemble.

Okay, so you already know the peplum has had a bit of a makeover for 2023/2024, and a modern peplum belt is a great way to be on trend in two ways. It'll pack a real punch when it's wrapped around your waist, making a real fashion statement. But it can be quite large and overpowering, so you'll probably want to keep the rest of your outfit a little simpler. That's why a statement belt like this looks great with a simple monochrome outfit underneath, as it'll bring all the fun.

If you're more a fan of a traditional statement belt, then you may prefer to go with a standout belt buckle to get this trend. This can be anything you want, and we mean literally everything, from something metallic and more traditionally shaped, to something totally bold and out there. This is actually one of the easiest looks on our list to rock, because there are so many different outfits to shape around it. Of course, a belt can be rocked with any kind of pants (including chic black jeans), skirts, shorts, or anything else.

For those who like to add a little sparkle to their outfits, a shimmery belt is a great way to grab attention and bring something glitzy to your ensemble at the same time. You could go for one covered in chunky glitter when you're looking to have fun, or try going to the rhinestone side if you're looking for something with just a little more sophistication. When bringing glitter or shimmer into your look though, remember you may want to keep the rest of your outfit a little simpler to let the sparkle do the talking.

Another way to grab attention without adding too much to your belt is to try a statement color. And one color family that's always sure to stand out is neon. From yellows, to greens, to pinks, and everything in between, a neon belt will totally elevate even the most casual look. That's why this is ideal to pair with something like jeans and a shirt, because it can instantly add a little extra something to an outfit that would otherwise be on the more simple side.

You may have already seen that fringe was totally in for summer 2023, and now there's a way to bring that into spring 2024. Fringe belts! A belt with attached fringe can totally make an outfit, as it's a super fun way to bring some movement and texture to your look. There may be more ways to style this than you think, too. Of course, you could always try a denim-on-denim ensemble (we know, gasp!) if you want full on western-wear, or try something black for a little more sophistication.