Belts have been around for as long as we can remember - however, in recent years, the thick belt revolution has pretty much left us all speechless. As was the case with bag styles and colors, there is no one type of thick belt that's essentially fashionable - rather, the beauty of the trend comes particularly from the mixture of various sizes, shapes and textures. Basic, or bright, or bejeweled, made from leather, elastic or satin, the sole unifying factor is the fact that all thick belts have the unique potential of adding a splash of color and a huge bonus in style to almost any outfit.

Let's start with the "how". Traditionally, thick belts used to be worn in order to pull in the waist and create a thinner, more feminine figure. However, the modern wide belts have come a long way with regard to their shape, texture and actual width. Cinch them around your natural waistline (the narrowest part of your torso) in a corset-like fashion, and you'll definitely be trilled with the results.

Such belts should be made of leather (whether solid or braided) - two alternative softer, but very stylish and comfortable, choices are reinforced satin and wide, stretchy bands of elastic. They will not only avoid giving you any discomfort, but you'll also be less likely to feel all the bending and sitting you have to do throughout the day. Kimono-inspired silk sashes are also an option, as are bands of fabric, both worn over ruffled shirts opened to the chest.

What are the best pairings for wide belts then? Well, if you're going to wear them at waist level, one safe choice for work is over a pair of high-waist trousers. A wide belt is also a wise choice when worn with a pencil skirt or a simple shift dress. Outside the office, a wide waist-hugging belt is the ideal way to "tie" together layered clothing - such as various, overlapped tops worn with jeans or a skirt.

Another option is to pair a wide, textured belt (be it woven, braided or cutout) with day dresses made of light cotton. Another good daytime combination are tailored jackets worn with a structured shirt and brought in sharp focus by a patent leather belt. For a trendy evening out with your friends, put on a camisole-style shiny satin dress and wear it with a wide belt studded with crystals, gemstones, sequins, or metallic finishes. So, how about it?