Belts
May 4, 2021

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

by Kristen Nichols

If you’ve been looking at the recent runways or outfits unfolding among the fashion set, there’s one major trend that’s 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 very 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.

Photo:

Courtesy of Chanel

Pictured: Chanel Cruise 21

Photo:

Courtesy of Jacquemus

Pictured: Jacquemus F/W 20

Photo:

Courtesy of Dior

Pictured: Dior P/F 21

Beneath a jacket with ripped jeans

Photo:

@kristenmarienichols

As I mentioned, belly chains are a piece I never envisioned wearing myself. With a whole new perspective on how to style them, I'm now fully on-board. For my first attempt at wearing the piece, I decided to pair one with a bold pink jacket and ripped jeans. I love the subtle detail of the belly chain peeking through the midriff-baring look.

Photo:

@kristenmarienichols

I styled this look with a pair of ripped jeans and a chain necklace to add some '90s-inspired elements.

With a crop top, cardigan, and jeans

Photo:

@jen_wonders

With baggy jeans on the rise, this look seems like a foolproof way to test-drive the belly chain. Paired with a crop top and a long cardigan, this feels very on-trend for 2021.

With a coat, one-shoulder top, and tailored pants

Photo:

@camillecharriere

Who knew belly chains were so primed for winter? Simply wear a coat with a slightly cropped shirt, tailored pants, and a belly chain in between.

Shop the look:

Chanel

Belt

$2900

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Under a pant suit

Photo:

@angelafink

I'm always looking for cool new ways to wear suiting and this look feels so fresh to me. With just the top jacket button fastened for a slight flash of skin, you can see a subtle glimpse of the belly chain.

With a bra top and slip skirt

Photo:

@raissagerona

You might already have these closet staples in your wardrobe, so this is a great way to get started with the trend. As we move into spring, I expect to see many more interpretations of this outfit formula.