If you plan to use a buckle or other type of closure on your belt, be sure to have enough fabric available to accommodate it and add interfacing, just as would be necessary with any other belt.
Pin. Step Two – Lay both belt pieces right sides facing one another, right sides together, right sides out.
Length
Belts can add flair to any ensemble, but it’s essential that its length matches that of its color and fabric. In casual and suited outfits alike, ideally your belt should match both shoes (except white sneakers ) as well as fabric of belt. A vibrant belt against black suit or dark blue pants will only draw more attention towards it than to any other aspect of your ensemble.
Dress belts should have only a few inches of leather left when the buckle is fastened – this is known as the “tail end.” Casual belts may feature longer tails; too long would look awkward. Military-style canvas belts with brass buckles usually have their tails cut close to their prongs for optimal aesthetics.
To determine the length of a belt, measure around your waist and subtract 3 1/2 inches. Cut a fabric strip the same length as your desired belt length and sew 3″x4″ rectangles from scrap fabric together along the edges until you have an even strip length – then trim off its ends for even width and make your desired belt length. If using grommets trace a circle onto each end before following directions for applying interfacing and sewing two sides together leaving a 12″ opening for turning!
Knots
Knots have quickly become an immensely popular fashion trend, from wrap skirts and blouses to dresses and sweaters – they add a unique visual component without adding extra pieces!
Knots we see at runway shows, red carpet events and street style events range from youth-campy macrame nostalgia to sleek feminine adornment. While some knots such as coquettish bows may quickly wear thin with repeated use, others such as bantu knots offer endless shapeshifting possibilities that can transform an ordinary silk shirt or cashmere sweater into something truly avant garde and special.
Popular and straightforward knots like Four-in-Hand and Windsor can make for an effective choice when selecting knots for most collar types, while wider collars may require larger knots such as Pratt or Shelby to maintain balance and proportion; conversely cutaway collars require tighter knots such as full Windsor to ensure that the knot sits between collar leaves neatly without becoming disproportionate or too large.
For a chicer appearance, tie the ends of your sash in either a French or half tuck knot for an elevated, sophisticated appearance that works well with oversized tops. Alternate between left or right side positions to switch up the style and create different looks.
Closures
Closures are an integral component of clothing and can have a considerable influence on its design. From straightforward and unassuming to eye-catching details, closures play a significant role in fashion’s style and sophistication. Many designers are now experimenting with unique closure types in order to craft standout pieces that complement an overall product aesthetic while simultaneously prioritizing eco-friendly materials and proper installation procedures for closures.
Velcro belts are an easy way to add secure closure and come in an array of colors and textures that match almost every style. Grosgrain ribbon is another great material option that provides plenty of body, making it possible to fold around buckles or fold and hem it for decorative tie belts by hemming its cut ends.
Snap closures are another popular choice for belts. Available in different finishes and sizes, snaps can easily be sewn on or applied using a hand-held plier tool; making them the ideal solution for activewear garments such as those constructed of durable fabrics like rip-stop nylon.
To add eyelets or grommets to a fabric belt, mark four to five spots approximately one inch apart on both edges of your loop fabric and fold over any excess before stitching closed. For even greater security, ban-roll or heavy interfacing may be better. Ensure your machine can stitch through both layers before testing it on scrap material.
Styles
Fabric belts come in all styles. Thin belts can help break up long lines on the body and draw attention away from them; thick belts add shape and help balance curvier figures. In addition to various lengths and textures available for fabric belts, their designs add even further character.
A casual tie-around belt should feature soft fabrics like cotton, linen or wool; or try a reversible obi, inspired by those seen worn around traditional Japanese kimonos. For an eye-catching statement look, wrap multiple times around your waist before fastening it with either a bow or knot fastener.
Narrow cotton or nylon webbing makes a sturdy addition to sundresses; polypropylene webbing is less bulky but less stable; ribbon in solids, stripes, or prints adds decorative accents; grosgrain ribbon with plenty of body can give structure while velvet or silk ribbon provides delicate looks; fusible lightweight interfacing can help give extra stability and hold.
