By now it seems pretty clear that 2023 is the year of Sofia Richie Grainge. Ever since she began sharing her pre-wedding outfits a few months ago, all eyes have been on the quiet-luxury aesthetic that she's been channelling through her classic looks. Each time there's a new post we're taking note, and her latest look displays the return of an accessory trend we weren't expecting: Waist belts.
Richie Grainge wears a Maje dress, Ralph Lauren belt and Maje bag.
In the early 2000s, no outfit was complete without a bold, statement belt. And though some elements of noughties style have threatened their return over the past few seasons—low waists, diamantés and medallion styles have popped back up as part of the Y2K revival—it's this latest iteration that we're now focused on. Statement in size but refined in look, this fresh take on waist belts is understated yet impactful. And we've spotted it in pride of place on the runways, from Carolina Herrera's resort collection to Alaïa's Winter/Spring 2024 show just days ago.
Adwoa Aboah and Mariacarla Boscono walked in the Winter/Spring 2024 Alaïa show.
The fresh way to wear a waist belt is to stick to neutrals and keep it simple. Richie Grainge is perfect evidence of this, putting hers over a contrast-stitch black dress and with an iconic fringed Maje bag in hand. But it's not just the designer brands that have honed in on this recent trend—our high-street heroes are already serving up plenty of affordable takes on the style.
Ready to take on the waist belt trend? Keep scrolling.
SHOP SOFIA RICHIE'S OUTFIT
SHOP MORE WAIST BELTS
This immediately went in my basket.
For those who prefer gold.
The woven detail adds a summery feel.
One for those looking to invest.
A real standout belt.
I'm into the unique shape of this buckle.
This won't stick around in stock for long.
Khaki is as versatile as any neutral hue.
Raey is all about timeless classics.
Add to your favourite white summer dress.
Next Up: These Are the 21 Best Bits From the New-In Sections at Mango, COS and Zara
-
Everyone Is Suddenly Wearing This Expensive-Looking Item With White PantsSo chic.
-
This Is the It Item Fashion People Keep Beelining to Madewell to BuyHint: You can wear it every single day.
-
I'm on the Hunt for Elegant Summer Bags—These 36 Have My AttentionStarting at just $25.
-
Style Insiders Know These 6 Summer Accessory Trends Make Simple Outfits More ElegantThey bring the sunshine.
-
Dripping in Wealth Is the Vibe—These 32 ElevatedReplica Store and Zara Summer Finds Fit the Bill PerfectlyUnder $200 and guaranteed to sell out.
-
I Write About Shopping All Day—30 Chic and Fun Accessories From Zara,Replica Store, and RevolveFrom big beads to tassel-adorned bags.
-
Wear This Elegant Accessory With Pants This Summer If You Want To Look ExpensiveStart feeling pretty this summer.
-
What If I Told You My Necklace Wasn't The Row, But $38 and Technically a Bag Charm?Yes, I said $38.
