Every item on this page was chosen by an ELLE editor. We may earn commission on some of the items you choose to buy.
While we’re not ones to oppose uniform dressing, there are some moments where less practical choices come in. That said, everyone could use a little utility, especially when getting dressed. So, in today’s society, it’s no wonder the best belts for women, which were once functional pieces, have now become one of fashion’s most playful accessories (not unlike the best designer bags, really). If you think belts aren’t for you, odds are you haven’t found the right one. It’s been reimagined by countless designers in a variety of silhouettes and materials, which means there’s definitely a style (or a few) for you out there.
As a new season rapidly approaches, consider investing in something that will fit right into the “go-to” section of your closet. Whether you’re keeping it simple with a classic black belt and a gold buckle or embracing one of the best fall 2023 fashion trends, a belt is a great way to add another layer to your ensemble without going all-out. To show you what I mean, I’ve rounded up the best belt options below for any and every occasion. My final words? Buckle down and get shopping!
What better way to reminisce on your fabulous Italian summer vacation than with a fresh Gucci belt for fall? Upgrade your wardrobe with this monogram pick in the season’s hottest color—or keep it cool in black or white.
Sizes: 65-120 cm
Dimensions: Width: 0.8 inches
Color: Red, Black, and White
Material: Leather, Gold Toned Hardware
Closure: Pin
Classic With a Twist
Bottega Veneta Knot Belt
Classic With a Twist
Bottega Veneta Knot Belt
So, you’re searching for the perfect black belt? Look no further! Bottega gives us a twist (pun intended) on the classic black leather belt that is sure to give your other black belts a run for their money.
Sizes: 65-100 cm
Dimensions: Width: 0.8 inches; Depth: 0.2 inches
Color: Black, Inkwell, and Fondant
Material: 100% Calfskin
Closure: Pin
The Nostalgic Pick
Collina Strada Brown Check Pleated Skirt Belt
The Nostalgic Pick
Collina Strada Brown Check Pleated Skirt Belt
Paint the town red this fall in this Y2K-inspired belt-turned-skirt from Collina Strada. Whether you want to rock the mini skirt look or layer over a pair of wide-leg trousers, this 2-in-1 studded belt is the standout accessory your wardrobe needs.
Sizes: S/M, M/L
Dimensions: Width: 5 inches
Color: Brown Check
Material: 100% Organic Cotton
Closure: Prong Buckle
Advertisem*nt - Continue Reading Below
The Best Investment
Rag & Bone Rebound Belt
The Best Investment
Rag & Bone Rebound Belt
This belt from Rag & Bone is named the “Rebound” for a reason: It’s time to swap out your summer linen for fall suede. This suede staple is worth every penny; timeless yet modern in the perfect autumn army shade. Let’s just say you’ll want to keep this rebound around for a while.
Sizes: XS-L
Dimensions: Width: 1.25 inches
Color: Olive
Material: 100% Calf Suede
Closure: Prong Buckle
The Quiet Luxury Pick
Nili Lotan Jane’s Belt
The Quiet Luxury Pick
Nili Lotan Jane’s Belt
This one speaks for itself. You’ll be (silently) screaming luxury in this classic croc-embossed belt from Nili Lotan. The sleek design and vintage silhouette are exactly what you’ve been looking for, and I’m confident that you’ll never want to take it off. Go ahead, prove me wrong!
Sizes: 75-95 cm
Dimensions: Width: 0.75 inches
Color: Dark Brown, Black
Material: 100% Calfskin
Closure: Prong Buckle
On-The-Go
Isabel Marant Brindi Belt
On-The-Go
Isabel Marant Brindi Belt
The only thing better than a classic black leather belt is a brown one. Give your buckle belts a well-deserved rest and sport this slipknot style with crisp contrast stitching and branded metal detail from the one and only Isabel Marant.
Sizes: 70-95 cm
Dimensions: Width: 0.9 inches
Color: Natural, Burgundy, Black
Material: 100% Calf Leather
Closure: Slipknot Buckle
Advertisem*nt - Continue Reading Below
Right here is proof that belts can be functional and stylish, and Alaïa’s got this one in the (detachable) bag! Treat yourself to a new belt and mini purse at the same time. You’ll never misplace your keys again.
Sizes: 65-85 cm
Dimensions: Width: 8 inches
Colors: Black
Material: 100% Calfskin
Closure: Pull through
Less Is More
Madewell Leather Tubular Tie Belt
Less Is More
Madewell Leather Tubular Tie Belt
Now 22% Off
Tie up all the loose ends of your outfit with this minimalist, yet fabulous belt. It gets the job done in style without all the bells and whistles.
Sizes: One Size
Dimensions: Width: 0.5 inches
Color: Amber
Material: Leather
Closure: Self-Tie
The New Western
Kate Cate James Kaki Belt
There’s a new sheriff in town, and she’s not messing around. Say ‘Howdy’ to your new favorite western-style belt from Kate Cate. Featuring an oval buckle, soft suede, and hand-sewn details on the side, this belt is a must-have as you take fall by the horns.
Sizes: 80-100 cm
Dimensions: Width: 1.5 inches
Color: Brown
Material: Calfskin Suede
Closure: Pin
Advertisem*nt - Continue Reading Below
Seeing Double
Anthropologie Double Buckle Waist Belt
Just in case one belt isn’t enough….
Get more bang for your buck with this double belt style from Anthropologie! Fall is all about layering; why not start with your belt?
Sizes: XS-XL
Dimensions: Width: 2 inches
Color: Honey, Black
Material: Leather
Closure: Double Prong Buckle
Who says belts can’t also be jewelry? If you ask me, a little sparkle goes with everything. Elevate your look with this crystal belt from Amazon or throw it on with your favorite pair of jeans, just for fun!
Sizes: S-L
Dimensions: Width: 0.7 inches
Color: Silver Rhinestone
Material: Metal
Closure: Prong Buckle
Leave it to Free People to show us what we’re missing. Not only does the Jona belt feature modern thin slot detailing, but it also comes in 10 colors! Turns out you can have it all!
Sizes: XS/S, S/M, M/L
Dimensions: N/A
Color: 10 Colors
Material: Leather
Closure: Prong Buckle
Advertisem*nt - Continue Reading Below
Party Animal
Anderson’s Zebra-Print Calf Hair Leather Belt
Party Animal
Anderson’s Zebra-Print Calf Hair Leather Belt
Calf hair and zebra print? Say less! Take a walk on the wild side without sacrificing refined quality craftsmanship. My personal favorite of the bunch, this Anderson’s belt is everything you need and more.
Sizes: 65-90 cm
Dimensions: Width: 1 inch
Color: Zebra, Leopard
Material: Calf Hair, Leather
Closure: Prong Buckle
The black leather belt never fails—especially when it comes with chic hardware like this one; I mean, how cool is this buckle?! It’s sure to fit as seamlessly into your wardrobe as it will stand out in a crowd.
Sizes: S-L
Dimensions: Width: 1.18 inches
Color: Black, Chocolate
Material: 100% leather
Closure: Prong Buckle
Last, but certainly not least. If you’re still not convinced, here’s Etro to take it home. Embrace your playful side with a little bit of paisley and Etro’s signature “E” buckle. You simply can’t go wrong!
Sizes: 70-100 cm
Dimensions: Width: 1.18 inches
Colors: Red
Material: 76% Cotton, 24% Polyester
Closure: Pin
Advertisem*nt - Continue Reading Below
