photos: kirsten for we heart this
Belts: the part of an outfit that is not only an accessory, but can practically become essential to your favorite shirt, tunic or dress. I personally feel like belts don’t get enough credit for their potential role in an awesome outfit! Below are three different “mini” DIY projects, on how to use different items as belts. Each tutorial is super simple, so why not share three instead of one? The possibilities are endless with these, and can help you add that extra touch to your favorite outfit.
1. Basic Belt
Materials: Sewing elastic, belt closures from an old or thrifted belt
Thick sewing elastic can make an extremely versatile belt. I used the metal closures from a thrifted belt and wide sewing elastic to make this black belt (that I use ALL the time!) I simply sewed the elastic onto each of the metal pieces to create an instant belt. The solid color is a great canvas for embellishments…maybe some studs, buttons, or appliques? Keeping it plain is great too – perfect for adding a finishing touch to outfits that already have a lot of prints and textures.
2. Necklace Belt
Materials: Necklace, silk ribbon
When I first joined the wht team, I got this amazing necklace by PONO. I’ve received tons of compliments on it already. But I thought, I can wear it even more if I use it as a belt! You can extend almost any necklace with some nice silk ribbon, creating an instant and fun. This can be easily done with a bracelet, too. It will give some of your jewelry that chance to shine in a completely different way.
3. Scarf Belt
Materials: Vintage headscarf, keychain hooks
Sure, you can just tie a headscarf around your waist and call it a day – but I feel like adding some metal hooks into the mix gives an entirely different look, without the extra fabric flowing behind you. Just tie the scarf onto the hooks, trimming down where applicable/if needed. You can find some really interesting scarves at thrift shops and flea markets.
we heartsters, what have you repurposed lately? Share in the comments!
kirsten-nunez
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You are so clever, @kirstengail! I would have never thought of extending a necklace to make a belt! The PONO necklace/belt would be such a focal point for an outfit. I’m going to give it a try. Thanks for the crafty inspiration!
I used to never leave the house without a belt, but sadly my belt days seem to have passed me by. This may just make me revisit! Thanks @kirstengail! You are one clever chica.
I love the scarf belt! That’s so chic! I wish I was so clever, @kirstengail!
@kirstengail — I loved this post. You make constructing belts look easy. (I recognize the Pono necklace.)
I also should add, the latest DIY on my blog, Studs and Pearls, is essentially like the first elastic belt in this WHT post – except studded with scrapbooking brads. If you’re interested in the first belt, check the latest DIY on my blog out! Link is below.
…The PONO necklace/belt is so fun! You’re right, @turboterp/Melissa, it’s a great focal point. I love going back and forth between the two versions.
You are quite the clever girl @kirstengail ! I would never think of these things, none the less get out the tools and make them! Thanks for doing all the hard work for us.
I love the Pono necklace belt (especially that it isn’t permanent and you can still wear it as a necklace) but the scarf is inspired! I have so many that would work so well – they already match my wardrobe and know I have one more use for them!
Cool idea @kirstengail I love checking out your blog I always get great ideas!
This is great @kirstengail! I feel reinspired to wear my scarves now in a new and fashionable way! And I’ve been struggling with what to wear my pono necklace with since I don’t have any matching earrings (I told you girls I was matchy matchy challenged!), so this is another avenue for it! Thanks so much!!
lovely as always, @kirstengail…Cinch belts are my favorite. They are so easy to wear, one size fits all, and they are perfect for defining waists while wearing dresses!
I need to wear more belts. I always want to get some but for some reason never want to spend the money on them even though they’re just as much of an accessory as jewelry and scarves. This is great though, I can totally make some at home now! Great ideas @kirstengail!
great post, very creative :)
though it’s actually the belt closures that i can’t seem to find anywhere…
<3!
@moransha, try your local thrift shops…sift through the belts they have there, and pay attention to the belt closures. The belt closures I used for the black elastic belt were originally from a thrifted belt that I got for about 79cents. I simply cut off the original belt (I believe it was just thick fabric) and used the metal pieces from there!