The artistry of a beautiful waist
From the dance halls of ancient Persia to the poolside lounges of today, belly chains hold an ageless attraction. They draw attention to a woman’s gentle curves, while dazzling with their unique designs. With roots in belly dancing tradition, today’s belly chains have a more contemporary look and are designed for adornment more than entertainment.
If you like to be fashion-forward and have a figure to flaunt, you’ll want to check out the look. Before you make your selection, consider the choices you have:
Style factors.
To determine the style of belly chain you want, consider these factors:
- Type of chain. Belly chains are usually comprised of links of different sizes or shapes. Typical chain styles include: square and round snake chains, mesh chains, and link chains such as curb link, Figaro, Byzantine, or rolo links. If you want a delicate look, go with smaller links. If you want a sportier, bolder look, then think big!
- Type of decoration. Chains may be very plain, with just the glow of silver or gold. Or they may be decorated with a variety of materials, including: gemstones (real or synthetic), crystals, beads, charms, amulets, or cut-outs.
- Type of metal. The metal used in a belly chain can run the gamut of metal colors and composition, including: 10k, 14k, or 18k yellow gold, white or rose gold, sterling silver, and alloy or plated metals. If you’re going to use your belly chain by or in the pool, go with gold, as it won’t tarnish or turn color like some alloys or silver will. (But don’t forget to remove your belly chain when you’re sunbathing, or you’ll get tan lines!)
- Pierced or un-pierced. Some belly chains are designed to attach to pierced belly button rings while others can be used without piercing. A pierced belly chain creates a scalloped effect, while an un-pierced chain rides lower across the abdomen and hips.
- Front or back belly chains. Regular belly chains display their primary decoration in front, to emphasize the abdomen, while back belly chains fasten in front, with a back centerpiece to emphasize the derriere. Decide where you want your emphasis to be, and buy accordingly.
Other factors.
To make the best selection and enjoy your belly chain, keep these points in mind:
- Sizing. Belly chains are available in almost any size, and chains are often adjustable. Lengths typically range from 20 to 40 inches. If you have a 29 inch waist, you will probably need a chain that is 34-36 inches long, as you want a bit of “play” in the chain. Also allow for a small length of dangling chain when you fasten it. To measure for best fit, place a tape measure just above your hip bones and leave it loose enough that you can fit a finger between the tape measure and your abdomen. If you don’t have curvy hips, measure closer to the navel area, so that you won’t have your belly chain sliding too far down.
- When to wear. You can wear a belly chain for almost any occasion with any type of outfit. Most gals wear their belly chain with casual wear – either swimsuits or with midriff tops and jeans. Of course, a belly chain is also the perfect accompaniment for your sexiest lingerie.
- How to wear. First of all, don’t wear a belly chain on top of your clothes, unless the chain is also designed as a dress belt. Keep your belly chain in scale and balance with your outfit. The simpler the outfit, the more elaborate your chain can be. For example, if you’re wearing a belly chain with a swimsuit, make it the focal point. If you’re wearing it with a bright patterned midriff top, jeans, and a jacket, don’t go overbroad with your belly chain size or design—it will create a cluttered look. When in doubt, keep it simple.
- Pricing. The single greatest factor in the cost of a belly chain is the materials used in its composition. Gold and sterling chains cost the most, as do chains with real diamonds. Expect to pay up to several hundred dollars for a handmade belly chain using precious metals or gemstones. However, you can easily find more casual belly chains for under $30. The use of metal alloys and crystals rather than gemstones keeps prices lower. Always try comparison shopping online, because you will find your greatest discounts there.
Before you select a belly chain, make sure you have the personality to pull one off. If you’re uncomfortable showing off your body, this may not be the body jewelry choice for you. On the other hand, if you are proud of your toned physique and want to accent it with a lovely piece of jewelry, don’t be shy! Belly chains are here to stay, so find out if their mystique will captivate you, too.
