I Tried the Controversial Belly Chain Trend I Was Really Scared Of

February 11, 2021 at 11:33AM

If you’ve been looking at the recent runways or outfits unfolding among the fashion set, there’s one literally quite small trend that’s actually impossible to ignore: belly chains. I know, probably not what you were expecting—but the 2000s trend is back and stronger than ever. I have to admit that the accessory scared me the first time around and never entered my wardrobe, but I’ve suddenly been convinced to give it a second chance.

I think the change of heart comes down to the styling. When belly chains first came onto my radar in the ‘00s, they were worn with other trends I avoided, like low-rise pants and velour sweats, but now we’re seeing them paired with more polished looks. At Chanel, belly chains were added to skirt suits, bikinis, and jeans. At Jacquemus, with a cropped cardigan and suiting. At Dior, with a knit sweater and logo pants. And fashion people have their own chic ways of styling them.

Finally warming up to the belly chain trend myself, I decided to try it out. Ahead, see how I’m wearing it, where I found inspiration, plus plenty of great shopping picks if you’re ready to add the fun piece to your wardrobe. I’m calling it the It-accessory for 2021.

Throughout the past several seasons, the belly chain trend has made a confident comeback in designer collections. We’ve seen a range of ways to style the accessory, so there are many looks to reinterpret off the runway.

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If you’re looking for further inspiration on how to style a belly chain, fashion insiders are providing plenty of cool outfit ideas. From crop tops to pant suits, belly chains seem to be the perfect accessory to finish the looks.

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Senior editor Lauren Eggertsen styled our December cover star, Taylour Paige, in this stunning look from Chanel’s Cruise 21 collection. The crop top and skirt set is paired with layered belts, including a belly chain, to tap into the of-the-moment trend.

Next up, read about the best designer bags of 2021.

This story was originally published on Who What Wear US.

Author Kristen Nichols | Whowhatwear
Selected by CWC