Despite the recent onslaught of oversized silhouettes and flowing sleeves this season, French designers are circling back to the flattering trick of a clearly defined waistline. You can definitely call this a trend, as nearly half a dozen Paris Fashion Week collections were accessorized with waist cinching belts, in the form of fabric obis (at Chalayan), laced up corsets (at Isabel Marant) and, of course, in opulent weaves of leather and snakeskin (at Balmain). It really seemed as if every designer on the PFW schedule received a memo that read: “please offer women flattering, waist accentuating options.”
Some of the creatives, including Dries Van Noten, didn’t bother adding additional accessories to draw attention the smallest part of a woman’s body. Rather, he factored the flattering detail directly into the design of the clothing, strategically pleating fabric right under the ribs on a white double-breasted jacket and a floral splashed duster coat. Same with Clare Waight Keller at Chloé, who allowed wide legged, high-waisted pants to do the flattering, as the wasitbands circled in on teeny waistlines.
We all know that drawing attention to the smallest point of our bodies, which is the waist, leads to a slimmer silhouette and a more striking figure. But if you’re unsure of how to add this look into your own repertoire (or you’re wary of just fastening a belt on top of any old dress), the French designers have offered up plenty of inspiration. Perhaps a fanny pack, also known as a waist bag, is the best option for you, or maybe it’s a fabulous dress with an empire waist will do the trick. Regardless, this is an epically flattering trend that can be universally adapted, so start culling inspiration now…