Fashion court: Will the belt work for my bigger upper body?

I have a wider upper body. I want to expand my wardrobe with belts. Do you think I will draw undue attention to myself?  
Brenda 

It is not about what others think. It is about what you are comfortable with and will wear confidently. I understand the temptation to get a belt; waist-wringing is the in-thing right now.

Traditionally worn for their ability to pull in waists and create the most feminine of figures, belts are migrating all over the torso — from just below the bust line, to the natural waist and even slung low around the hips. Thin or wide, bright, basic or bejeweled, a belt is an easy way to polish up any outfit.

But your concern is the upper body and how you will appear. You have an inverted triangle body shape. A wide hip belt is the perfect accessory to compliment your figure. This is better teamed with dark-coloured tops and something of a light colour for the bottom half. 

Low-slung belts will draw the eye to the hips. This casual way of wearing a belt does well with tunics, casual shift dresses and trendy low-rise jeans.

They add a ring of colour and a finishing touch of flair and personality to the outfit. Where you place the belt is important. A wide belt around the middle of the waist has a slimming effect. Leather belts are a good choice; choose dark colours that will flatter your figure to maximise the slimming effect.

Tie together separates — tops, sweaters with skirts, trousers or jean — by wearing a waist-hugging thin belt over light layers of clothes for a refined look.

You can rarely go wrong with a plain black belt that is the correct size for your torso. A plain belt with an ornate buckle can be just the right accessory for most of your outfits. 

Compiled by Harriet Birungi