If your favorite belt is becoming loose, stretched out, or breaking, it might be time to get a new one. But buying new belts over and over can get expensive. Thankfully, there are stylish and comfortable alternatives to belts that you can use.
So, what to use instead of a belt? Well, different people might have different preferences. My preferences that will make top belt replacements are as follows:
- Twine or Rope
- Scarves
- Suspenders
- Drawstring
- Stash Belt
Keep reading to find five cheap and useful alternatives to buying a new leather or fabric belt. I’ll also describe why they’re worth replacement and how to use them instead of the belt as well. So, keep on reading!
5 Best Things You Might Consider As Belt Equivalents
I have listed 5 things that might work as an amazing belt equivalent. I’m not saying it’s a belt vs Scarves or Scarves vs belts – It’s just that thing that, you can use while it’s an emergency.
1. Twine or Rope
You can use twine or rope as a belt by threading it through the loops on your pants or shorts. Twine comes in different colors and textures, so you can match it to your outfit.
Just tie it the same way you’d knot a belt, allowing enough overlapping rope to make a sturdy knot. This eco-friendly option also gives off a rustic vibe.
2. Scarves
A scarf may seem an unlikely belt replacement. But a long, wide scarf made of a non-slip material like silk can substitute for a belt beautifully.
Fold or tie the scarf to your desired thickness. Then, thread it through the belt loops and knot it around your waist.
A scarf belt works especially well with dresses, tunics, and lightweight fabrics. Choose one that matches or complements your outfit colors.
3. Suspenders
Suspenders, also known as braces, used to be seen as something only nerdy grandpas wore. But now they are popular again. I would say these are some of the best replacements for belts!
Suspenders have buttons or clips to attach them to your pants, so you don’t need a belt.
You can find stylish suspenders in leather, patterns, textures, and colors that suit your taste. You can wear them with jeans, dress pants, shorts, or skirts if attached to a waistband.
Suspenders have an extra benefit: they keep your pants up without the need to pull or sag. Let suspenders show by leaving your shirt casually untucked.
4. Drawstring
If your pants, shorts, or skirt have a drawstring waistband, you can use the drawstring to adjust the fit. A drawstring functions similarly to a belt, cinching the waist snug so clothing stays up.
Grab the dangling drawstring ends once your bottoms are on and pull tight into a bow or knot. You can easily loosen a drawstring when needed for comfort.
Utilizing drawstrings turns items you already own into perfectly serviceable belt replacements.
5. Stash Belt
To be prepared for belt failures, you can keep an extra belt in your bag, desk, or car. Keep a basic black or brown belt on hand so you don’t get caught without one.
Or pick a favorite flashy statement belt to store so you can freely swap into it when you want to spice up an outfit.
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3 Reasons Why You Need Solid Belt Alternatives
There are a couple of reasons why you need to use the alternative of belts. Let’s discuss it all.
1. Save Money
Buying replacement belt after belt can drain your wallet. Depending on materials, quality, and style, price points typically range from $20 to $75+ per belt.
By using things you already own, you can save money and use it for something else. Be creative and reuse ropes, scarves, and drawstrings instead of going to the store.
2. Prevent Wardrobe Malfunctions
When you only have two choices for belts – a working one or none at all – it often results in your pants falling down. If you don’t want to feel embarrassed or keep having to pull up your pants, you can try using different belts. Stop worrying whether your pants will cooperate so you can feel confident.
3. Mix Up Your Style
Belt stand-ins like suspenders, ropes, and drawstrings put a fresh spin on your clothes. When you have extra belts ready, it’s easier to try out new and unique styles.
Why wear plain belts when you can use a colorful silk scarf belt or leather suspenders? Don’t be afraid to get inventive and express yourself.
What If I Keep Wearing My Stretched Out Jeans?
If your tight jeans used to fit well but now sag, it might be time to take a break from wearing them. If your pants are too loose and you wear them for a long time, the denim may stretch.
If you keep wearing baggy jeans, they might look messy or fall down at bad times. Put away your oversized jeans and concentrate on finding well-fitting backups that enhance your body shape. You don’t need to buy new clothes that fit perfectly right now. You can wait until you have enough money.
In Summary
When your trusty belt gives out, see it as a chance to refresh your look with different alternatives. These include rope, scarves, or suspenders. These handy swaps breathe new life into your outfits.
So next time you face a belt malfunction, don’t sweat it. Dip into your closet for things like drawstrings and twine to substitute for what to use instead of a belt. With some creative styling, you’ll discover surprising ways to make beltless work beautifully.
Saving money and preventing wardrobe fails are satisfying perks too. Embrace the beltless challenge – you just may start a trend.