Fashion
Feb 11, 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 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.

Photo:

Courtesy of Chanel

Pictured: Chanel Cruise 21

Photo:

Courtesy of Jacquemus

Pictured: Jacquemus F/W 20

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Courtesy of Dior

Pictured: Dior P/F 21

Beneath a jacket with ripped jeans

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@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.

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@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

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@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. Of course, you may want to do your jeans up when out and about!

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

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@camillecharriere

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

Under a trouser suit

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@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

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@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.