The Bigger the Buckle, the Better

Strap yourselves into your next outfit with a fun accessory that is sure to make a strong fashion statement, because big buckle belts are stealing the spotlight! While we have all used this particular accent piece as a mere waist-defining accessory, this fashion staple has definitely transformed into something bigger and better. Already attracting quite a lot of attention from celebrity trendsetters like Rooney Mara and Byrdie Bell, this stylish accessory will undoubtedly be popular for the spring 2012 season. Although these large buckle belts have appeared on the spring runways of acclaimed designers by the likes of Phoebe Philo, Yves Saint Laurent, and Lanvin, there is an assortment of affordable alternatives to choose from that won't break the bank.

If you are worried about splurging on this bold trend, try Banana Republic's Leather Contour Belt, which costs $50 and introduces a sleek, effortless look to any outfit in need of cinching. Lauren by Ralph Lauren also has a less-expensive substitute for this spring accessory, with a $38 Patent Stretch Belt that can spice up any outfit and help you feel chic and sexy. So, add this eye-catching statement piece to your wardrobe and stand out from the crowd in a stylishly cinched frock.

Text Jasmine Song

Image and Source Who What Wear

All Buckled Up

Last week, while browsing around a sample sale in Soho, I picked up this unusual beauty by Collective Concepts. The simple gray t-shirt dress is made unique by its coffee colored buckle straps that immediately captured the heart of my inner cowgirl. Or should I say my inner Urban Cowgirl.

The back straps were what really sold me on this one. The suspender look on the back of this dress really sets it apart from anything else on the block. The buckle strap is such a simple concept and I really hope to see it pop up more often as the fall season approaches.

BY Carly Roye
Photo by Garret Hurley

Shoe Torture

I would just like to take a minute and talk about one thing...the Spring 2009 amazingness brought to us by Nicholas Kirkwood for Rodarte. Specifically, the shoes. If you know anything about current fashion, then you know what I'm referring to. If you don't, then put a condom on your head because I think I may have just blew your mind. These shoes have been spotted on the streets of Paris recently worn by a Miss Sally Singer (Vogue), a woman with fabulous fashion sense but terrible hair. Now, everywhere you look, or at least everywhere I have been looking, which are places you should be looking too, I have seen a shoe trend...buckles. But not just any buckles, strappy buckles, multiple strappy buckles. Shoes asphyxiated by straps...and it's turning me on. No, I'm not into S&M, unless it has to do with Gucci's new Babouska sandal ($1,295) or Jimmy Choo's Glenys Elaphe snakeskin sandal (also $1,295). I have been pretty "meh" about the overuse of them recently but once I saw the Rodarte beauties, with the gold D-rings and metallic chunk heel, I converted to a full on masochist. Check out Mr. Kirkwood's shoe collection and you too will fall in love...or lust. Just remember the safety word.