Not gonna lie, both of the striking accessory elements have always gone side by side in the Steampunk fashion line. What makes the specific items different from ordinary leather belts and other casual clothing essentials is the industrial design mixed with some militaristic equipment.
We’re speaking of various kinds of metallic hardware like buckles, rivets and chains, gears and studs but also lace placed and attached to the leather in a very uncommon way! Also, the eye-catching design(the straps cross the torso or wrap around the waist mostly) makes the top knot stand out from the crowd!;)
How to wear, where to go, and what to avoid?
The good news for everyone is that these treasures can be beautifully combined with: Old Vintage high-collared blouses, theme-related corsets, and dresses, overall classic Victorian-inspired outfits. Or…you can simply overlook that idea by blending Steampunk inspirational harnesses or belts into everyday outfits like with a solid-colored blouse, tank top and oversized shirt, or even a tailored blazer. The last one mentioned can result in a super edgy and fashionable look btw;) At the same time, it brings a sense of adventure and creativity to modern preferences;)
That being said..by pairing them with contemporary clothing, you can strike a balance between historical vibe and casual wear. Why not even go to work wearing these beauties!;)
As a person who’s 100% confident mixing these leather straps with different outfits myself, I would kindly share couple of basic tips with you;)
One thing you need to keep an eye on is the color! Try to stick to neutral tones (black, white, brown, or beige) to ensure that the harness or the belt doesn’t overwhelm the outfit. Goes the other way around of course! I would also recommend NOT going too overboard (too colorful for example) with the base outfit under the “leather equipment” if you wanna keep that delicious and chic style!;)
Also can’t get passed without pointing out the material quality importance, as it was with the Corsets! Gladly, with my personal experiences, once again, I will give my best to guide you through the best there is to offer. Prices may vary, most certainly…but, let’s not forget what Benjamin Franklin once said. “The bitterness of poor quality remains long after the sweetness of low price is forgotten.” Right?;)
Long story short! There are thousands of ways of creating a look that does not only have that Wow-Element but is also Freakin’ Unique! So let’s get to it, guys!
If you have more experiences in that area already, here are the topics we’re about to unwrap to make scrolling easier for You!;)
- More Conservative Belts
- Peplum Belts
- Belts with Chains and Metallic embellishments
- Lightweight Waist Harnesses
- Underbust Harnesses
- Chest Harnesses
- Fairy Harnesses
More conservative Belts!
Starting with the more basic ones for people who would prefer to take it easier on the streets!;) These “classic” belts around the waist combine the aesthetic of steampunk fashion with practicality and subtlety! It is most definitely appealing to those who appreciate our beloved genre but prefer a restrained approach!
These beauties are typically less ornate than traditional steampunk accessories, which means the main emphasis is on clean lines, more earthy tones, and functional design for sure! Combine it with a floaty blouse, silky Victorian shirt, or even with a long dress for example, it’s a great choice for jobs or events where you want a hint of creativity without going overboard.;)
The best offers for conservative Belts in a variety of different colors!
Peplum Belts!
If you’re willing to take more risks with the outfit, then peplum leather belts might be for you! By still being the more modest accessory, its layered design gives it the edge and structure to play with! As a bonus element…it shapes up the waistline super nicely, by giving your body shape the extra volume it needs!
In fact…you can pair it with a fitted dress to accentuate the waist and create a flattering silhouette;) Or just wear over a corset or blouse to elevate a Victorian aesthetic. It also can be worn over slim-fitting pants for a steam-inspired look!;)
That ageless flared skirt-like belt can be easily used as a bridging element to incorporate Steampunk into modern or traditional wardrobes!
Here are the best picks for Peplum belts that also come in different colors!
Belts with Chains and Metallic embellishments!
Moving another step up from the stairs by adding another extremely important element to the item that speaks Steampunk! There’s literally never ENOUGH of the combination of leather, metal, and chains in the subculture!
They’re like the perfect accessory when you want to feel a little more artistic, or just plain cool! Whether it’s a simple chain draped over a leather strap or a belt decked out with studs and spikes, these belts bring personality to even the most BORING looks, guys!
At first, it might sound too alternative for a newcomer maybe? But a belt as an accessory is so easy to manage. So adding, removing, and replacing clothes under and around it, over time you will find just the right “mix” that surprisingly doesn’t even look that scary anymore! Bet ya!
Speaking of that…these belts are not limited to alternative fashion — they’re showing up in high fashion and casual streetwear too ofc! This means that you can go full drama or keep it subtle, depending on how you style it in the end!;) So why don’t we turn our plain outfit into something way more memorable, right?:)
With what, you’re asking?
Mostly every little clothing item there is in Steampunk enthusiasts and a casual admires closet! But what comes to the color preferences…I would recommend using the chain belt as the focal point of an outfit, keeping the rest of the look with minimal tones;)
And if it doesn’t feel enough of a joy… throw on a chunky necklace or boots with buckles, and let the metal details tie everything together!
Here are the Best offers for Quality Belts with Metal and Chains with many color options!
Lightweight Waist Harnesses!
These Specific multifunctional accessories are sometimes easily mistaken for Belts. But Harnesses serve extended body shaping straps that are super nicely tied up together, making the product a Gorgeous unit!;) In fact, Harnesses give you way more room to play around with the outfit by changing, mixing, and turning around the straps the way you prefer!
In most cases, you just need to reposition the adjustable straps/buckles, and hooks to make it more You!;) The majority of waist harnesses include the O-rings or other decorative studs as well!;) No need to mention, all these rustic metallic attachments are playing a big role in the World of Steampunk!;)
The Waist Harnesses can be simple, like a single strap around the waist, or more complex, with straps extending to the shoulders or even hips! The good news is that you can pair it up with a t-shirt, oversized shirt, Victorian shirt, flowy dress, sweater, blazer, bodycon….and the list goes on forever!;)
Last but not least…A good leather waist harness should feel snug but not tight, and it should be adjustable for comfort! It’s more about looking “smashing” and feeling confident rather than serving a functional purpose in the long run. But we will overlook that non-important fact and will have a closer look at them!;)
Here are the Best bites for the Leather Waist Harnesses in a variety of Colors!
Underbust Harnesses!
If your goal is to attract more attention on the streets, then this upper body “wrap” would be a good starting point!;) How it differs from the waist harness is it presents a way more functional aspect. Because compared to the previous one, you can easily mix it up as being an “regular” clothing item.
These look wise closer to being a corset, can be worn to add some drama to your style choice daily basis! Take and imagine it as jewelry for your clothes like I do!;) I like how it can make even the plainest outfit feel more put-together. Big bonus with the harness that can’t possibly be left unsaid, is the two-sided usability option! It’s a small change, but makes a huge difference! Like 2 outfits coming with the same price!;)
All in all…Underbust Harness is a Perfect statement idea for the ones who would crave for the starry look!;) About its history line…it has its roots not only in Steampunk fashion, but other existing subcultures like goth, punk, and fetish wear as well. So no wonder that in recent years, it has become a Mainstream fashion tick, as you can see, my folks!;)
Let’s have a look at the best offers for the Quality Underbust Harnesses with multiple Color options!
Chest Harnesses!
As the name says, Chest Harness is mainly focusing on the upper body area! The neck is also included with a connection of a specific strap around it in most cases. While that unusual part of the “fashion gear” might scare some people off at first, it has become extremely trendy in streetwear and especially in Avant-Garde!;)
As for creative usage…In dance, cosplay, or other performance arts…Chest Harness is already yesterday’s news gotta say! For subcultures like Steampunk, Punk, Metal, and Cyberpunk, ALL these harnesses serve a symbolic and aesthetic value without a doubt!;)
How to style it depends on the context and the way the intended look works with your personal taste of course! But hitting the streets with a Harness over a lighter color Tee, plain dress or tailored jacket is a definite conversation starter!;)
Chest harness gives you the ultimate opportunity for unique self-expression if you wanna make a power move!:)
Here are the Best offers for Quality Waist Harnesses with a variety of Color options available!
Fairy Harnesses!
The most alternative harnesses on the list are for the ones who admire mystic “fae” energy and want it to be present in their outfits!;) So it’s all about receiving the magical look! Fairy Harnesses are often consciously over-decorated with capes, wings, buckles, and straps with rivets and studs!
Also, fabrics like lace and net are usually tied to the straps, to make it a complete “costume-like” product! For that reason, these harnesses aren’t labeled under casual everyday accessories!
That’s what special occasion events are for…so you wouldn’t have to miss out any second with these beautiful pieces of Art! Perfect for photoshoots and spicing up your social media for example!
All in all…We have it covered, my friends!;)
Here are couple of Unique offers for Fairy Harnesses available!
Thanks for the read! Hope you guys enjoyed the list and got some inspiration from the guidance to bring these cool accessories to Life!;)
