By Esther Onyegbula

Belts can be tricky clothe accessory to wear,if you do not have the body of a runway model. A belt can actually accentuate bits you want to hide, if you chose the wrong size, type, or wear it in the wrong place.

Presently a hot fashion trend, especially wide waist-cinching belts or narrow, skinny ones that sits around a cardigan or jacket. Chunky beltscinched in at the waist enhance womanly curves, even on fuller figures.

Belts to Suit Your

Body Shape.

It pays to experiment with the placing of a belt and see the effect different widths have on seemingly slimming (or widening) your shape…and to be mindful of the buckle type and size; some can have a slenderizing effect whilst others will serve to make you look more chunky, don’t be deterred with a little perseverance you will find a style that matches your outfit and suits your body shape.

Belts for Big Stomachs

For those who have a post-baby belly or flab round the middle, it is not necessary to shy away from belts. In fact, quite the contrary as a belt worn well can give the impression of a narrower waist and more hour glass figure. A wide belt around the middle of your waist actually slims down your stomach. Be mindful of the buckle and fastening style as you can also apply some cleaver tricks. A fastening that narrows or widens almost like a figure-8 will provide a variation from the same shape and width of the belt strap will give the illusion of a slimmer stomach

To avoid a muffin top do not tighten the belt so that it constricts your body too much, unless you are wearing such a full top that it will disguise a layer of fat; a dark colored belt will be more slimming, so will a matte-finished leather one.

If a belt is worn on the hips rather than the waist this also detracts from the tummy. A dress is best worn like this, with a few inches pulled up over the belt to create a tummy concealing look.

Alternatively, wear a belt under the bust, empire-line style rather than exactly on the waist. This look works well with a tunic-style dress or blouse. Beware though; this will also have the effect of making your bust look bigger. Whichever style, you choose make sure it suits you.