In the olden days, there were one or two reasons for wearing a belt. One was to make sure that your pants are securely cinched on your waist so you will not find yourself with your pants down. The second reason is to aid the lovely maidens in showing off those glass hour figures.

Now, that would be downright embarrassing! Now the conventional take on belts takes on a drastic change. Belts, these days, are not only considered functional but it is also an accessory for fashion. You will find in boutiques and dress shops that belts now take all kinds of shapes, sizes and are in a myriad of beautiful prints and wonderful colors.

Like scarves and hand bags, belts are considered to be a staple part of any woman's closet. A number of fashion aficionados will tell you that the belt you choose to wear today can actually be the very thing that can make or break your outfit. So here are a few helpful tips in making the most fashionable statement in wearing that waist-wringing fashion accessory.

ØIn the past, belts were worn only on the waist. Now they have either moved upward or downward or all over. For wide belts, for example, make sure to center it on your natural waist. This technique slims down your waist and places emphasis on this very sexy curve. These thick belts should be able to take all the bending you do during the day so make sure they are made of flexible and strong materials. Your best bet would be woven leathers, wide and thick elastic bands and reinforced satin layers.

ØSkinny belts are great compliments to your more dressy outfits. If you have extra long belts, you can stylishly wear them by winding them around a number of times around your waist or your hips. For an added flare, you can choose to wear belts with a metallic finish or of a bright color like yellow or orange. The thing about skinny belts is to make sure its thickness is in proportion to your figure. If you're a plus-size, you might consider it not being too skinny.

ØFor that office look, you may accessorize a waist-level belt (thick or thin, whatever suits you) with those high-waist trousers. If you are opting for the secretary look, then this type of belt also looks nice with a pencil skirt. A thin waist-level belt would nicely accentuate a simple dress.

ØIf you are one who loves wearing shirts or sweaters over jeans or pants, go for a waist-hugging belt placed on light layers to make your look more refined. Again, it can be thin or thick according to your preference.

ØFor the more feminine day dresses, a medium or thick belt can give them more definition. Belts made out of plaited, textured, cut-out or woven material would do so you take your pick.

ØRaise up the charm ante with belts accentuated with gemstones and crystals when wearing a sheath dress. Like hitting two birds with one stone, the dramatic belt attracts attention and emphasizes your curves.