Studded Belts Are Getting A Chic, Less Edgy Upgrade For Fall 2023

Belts are everywhere this year — especially studded belts, which have long been a go-to accessory for those looking to show off their unique individuality. The studded belt, usually outfitted with metal or plastic spikes, was inspired by those following alternative lifestyles as far back as the '50s, '60s, '70s, and '80s.

By the '90s, the studded belt became synonymous with punk rock, heavy metal, and grunge music and its resulting subcultures. By the turn of the new millennium, the studded belt became more ubiquitous in fashion, as fashionistas everywhere began to adopt the style to make a style statement and add some edge to an otherwise plain outfit.

Fall 2023 is all about hardware, with studs being our chosen favorite. While studded belts are not going anywhere, they are getting a bit of an upgrade for fall 2023. A little less edgy and a little more sleek, the studded belts trending for fall are inspired by minimalism, nostalgia, designer looks, and bohemian lifestyles and can be worn with everything from jeans to dresses.

Studs are going sleek and stylish. For fall, you'll want to get your hands on the Benny Belt from Khaite — or one that looks like it — available in multiple thicknesses, colors, and designs to fit any aesthetic. Choose from black leather with silver studs, coffee suede with silver studs, natural python-embossed leather with studs, and black patent leather with gold studs. 

Gotta have a bit of boho in your life. That's why we love us some Free People. The trendy bohemian brand is all about loose, comfy clothing that's high on style. Take the brand's Western-inspired Follow Your Arrow Belt, which puts a boho spin on the studded belt with its round leather segments, stud details, and coin buckle — available in tan, midnight, navy, emerald, optic white, ruby, and black. For fans of gold detailing instead of silver, reach for the black belt. 

While the entire concept of a studded belt being thought of as minimalistic might sound like an oxymoron, the studded belts for fall 2023 are all about keeping it subtle. Take the 38mm Triangle Stud Leather Belt from AllSaints, for example. Its tiny silver triangular studs add just a hint of pizzazz to an otherwise simple black leather belt, a versatile, classic style.

Nostalgia has been all the rage in both fashion and popular culture, and this doesn't seem to be changing. Incorporate some nostalgia to the studded belt with the Mall Plaid Star Studded Belt from Collina Strada, which gives off some serious '90s Alicia Silverstone-in-"Clueless" vibes. In addition to the yellow plaid, it's available in pink and yellow with the more traditionally edgy squared-off studs.

While Gucci seems to rule when it comes to designer belts, belts from other designers are gaining in popularity. And some of these designer belts feature — you guessed it — studs. Brands like Isabel Marant — popular with the Hollywood elite, including Katie Holmes, Sienna Miller, and Maggie Gyllenhaal — offer belts like the Rica Leather Belt, available in black and brown. Or there's the Molly Star Stud Leather Belt from Golden Goose, with its partial stars that line its narrow frame. Get it in black or cuoio (a similar color to cognac), and wear it with everything from dresses to sweaters to blazers.